Louisiana Bar Exam: A Basic Guide

The Louisiana Bar Exam is one of the most unique bar exams in the United States. This is due to the fact that the State of Louisiana is the only civil law state in the union.  Because of the differences in this state's government compared to the other states in the U.S., you will want to make sure that you are familiar with civil law governments and its procedures, as well as familiar with federal laws and procedures.  This article will help you to find the most current and helpful study materials, as well as help you develop an effective study plan by providing you with the topics that will be coverd in the Louisiana Bar Exam.

QUALIFICATIONS

To qualify to sit for the Louisiana Bar Exam you will need to have a law degree from an ABA approved law school. The Louisiana Board of Bar Examiners, as well as the American Bar Association will have lists of approved schools. In addition to meeting educational requirements you will also be required to pass a background and character check, which will include an evaluation of both your criminal and financial records, as well as requiring letters of reference that attest to your moral and professional character. The final requirement to sit for the Louisiana Bar Exam is that you must take the Multistate Professional Responsibilities Exam, and you must pass it with a score of at least 80. Louisiana will accept a MPRE score for up to five years after it is taken.

If you are already an attorney in another district, if you graduated from a law school outside of the United States, or if you graduated from a non-ABA approved law school you will need to submit an application for an equivalent determination. Visit the Committee on Bar Admissions at http://www.lascba.org for more information.

REGISTERING FOR THE EXAM

To register to sit for the Louisiana Bar Exam you will need to download, print out, complete, and submit an application package. These can be found on the Louisiana Committee on Bar Admissions’ website.