Is a Law Degree Required to Take the Bar?

Studying law is a noble pursuit but also one that can be costly. The inability to finance legal studies can keep some from pursuing law as a career. Fortunately there are still a few states that allow students to take the bar exam without a law degree.

California

According to the California Bar Association, students who do not attend law school formally can still take the bar exam if they can submit proof of at least four years of legal studies in a law office or under the guidance of an attorney or judge.

New York

According to nybarexam.org, permission to take the New York State bar exam can be granted without a law degree. The applicant must have completed at least one year of formal study in a law school approved by the American Bar Association (ABA). The remainder of the studies can be conducted in a law office or clerkship arrangement.

Maine

According to mainebarexaminers.org, admission to the Maine state bar exam is allowed if the applicant completes at least two years of study at an ABA-recognized law school.

Wyoming

The site studyfor.com states that in Wyoming, legal-office independent study is allowed as long is it structured and deemed equal to at least two years of formal law-school training.

Virginia

In Virginia, notes studyfor.com, the bar exam can be taken with no educational requirements attached.

References

• Can I take the bar exam/be a lawyer without going to law school?
• Apply for the Bar Exam
• Bar Exam Eligibility

Resources

• Maine Board of Bar Examiners