You are in law school and getting ready to apply for The Florida Bar. You are beginning to look through information about the application to The Florida Bar, which can be quite daunting! There is one section that seems like something you haven’t heard a lot about – the Character and Fitness section. In addition to passing the Bar exam, the Board requires that applicants possess good moral character.
What Does Good Moral Character Mean In Law?
A number of the questions on the Florida Bar application involve Character and Fitness. Your answers to these questions help the Florida Board of Bar Examiners determine if you have the good moral character necessary to serve the community as an attorney.
At its core, the definition of good moral character means that you understand the difference between right and wrong and consistently choose “right” over “wrong.” This applies to how you treat people, handle money, and practice law, for example. In law, good moral character also extends to a respect for the law, opposing parties, clients, and the judicial process.
An important thing to understand is that previous wrong-doings do not mean that you have poor moral character. The Florida Bar wants to see that you take accountability for past wrongs, and are honest, fair, and respectful of the law and rights of people.
Adjectives Used To Describe A Person With Good Moral Character
- Candid
- Honest
- Fair
- Trustworthy
- Ethical
- Honorable
- Conscientious
- Responsible
- Scrupulous
- Principled
- Reliable
- Hard-working
- Respectful
What Is Evidence Of Good Moral Character?
The Florida Bar requires proof of good moral character from each applicant. Your references can offer evidence of your good moral character by discussing your personality, positive traits, and their positive dealings with you. Other evidence of good moral character will stem from simply answering each question truthfully. Showing your dedication to school and employment (work ethic) also shows good moral character.
How Do You Prove You Have Good Moral Character For Admission to The Florida Bar?
You can offer proof of good moral character by answering all of The Florida Bar application questions accurately, thoroughly, and honestly. The Board of Bar Examiners will also do a background check and may require an applicant to appear at an investigative hearing. At this hearing, the Board asks questions and addresses concerns over any issues that arose on your bar application and/or during their background investigation. It gives you a chance to explain yourself and discuss ways that you have grown and improved your moral character since the time of the incident. Keep in mind that the Board isn’t looking for perfection, so don’t panic. The most important aspect of this interview is telling the truth about any concerns the Board has.
If you need help navigating the Florida Bar admissions process and/or the investigative hearing, Elizabeth S. Conan, Attorney At Law can help. Invest in your future now.