California and Arizona are pioneering new approaches to lawyer licensure.
California, which has always taken a different approach to other US states on many lawyers regulatory issues, has decisively moved away from the uniform system of examinations run by the National Conference of Bar Examiners. The State Bar of California has contracted with Kaplan North America to develop a proprietary bar exam, set to launch in February 2025. This initiative marks a significant departure from traditional exams and could encourage other states to adopt innovative licensure methods.
The Arizona Supreme Court has introduced the Arizona Lawyer Apprentice Program, which allows individuals who score close to passing the Uniform Bar Exam to obtain licensure through two years of supervised practice in underserved areas. This program aims to address the severe shortage of lawyers in rural and public sectors and enhance legal access.
These changes signify a shift towards more flexible and accessible pathways to legal licensure, potentially influencing broader national reforms in legal education and certification.