Navigating the process of becoming a licensed attorney in Florida can be nothing short of overwhelming. You need to understand the application requirements and the character and fitness process, prepare for the bar exam, and more. To help clarify the process, we’ve compiled answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about Florida Bar Admission.
What Are The Basic Requirements For Admission To The Florida Bar?
Applicants must meet the following four requirements to be admitted to The Florida Bar:
- Educational Requirements: You must have a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from a law school accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA).
- Bar Exam: You must pass the Florida Bar Examination, which includes the Multistate Bar Examination (MBE), the Florida-specific portions, and the Multistate Professional Responsibility Examination (MPRE).
- Character and Fitness: You must pass a rigorous background check and demonstrate good moral character.
- Oath of Admission: After passing the bar exam and the character and fitness review, you must take the Oath of Admission.
How Do I Apply For The Florida Bar Exam?
To apply for the Florida Bar Exam, you need to:
- Submit an Application: Complete and submit the Bar Exam Application through the Florida Board of Bar Examiners’ online portal.
- Pay the Fees: Pay the required application and exam fees. The fees vary based on your application timing and status (e.g., first-time applicant, repeat applicant, out-of-state attorney).
- Provide Supporting Documents and Documentation: Submit all required supporting documents, such as transcripts, affidavits, and amendments. You will also need to submit the necessary fingerprinting for the background check.
*Check out our Blog “How Do I Submit Fingerprints When Applying To The Florida Bar?” for more information.
What Is The Florida Bar Exam Format?
The Florida Bar Exam is a two-day test held twice a year (February and July). It consists of:
Day 1: Florida-specific essays and multiple-choice questions.
Day 2: The Multistate Bar Examination (MBE), which is a standardized, multiple-choice exam that is administered nationwide.
The MPRE is also required for Florida Bar Admissions and is taken separately from the Florida Bar Exam.
What Is The Character And Fitness Review?
The Character and Fitness review is a thorough background check conducted by the Florida Board of Bar Examiners. It evaluates your past conduct to ensure you meet the ethical and moral standards required to practice law. This includes a review of your academic, employment, financial, criminal, and personal history.
Be forthright about any past indiscretions or current issues on your application. The board may call you for a hearing to discuss any concerns.
How Long Does The Bar Admission Process Take?
The timeline for bar admission varies but generally takes several months. After submitting your application, just the Character and Fitness review can take six months or even more in certain situations. Once you pass the bar exam and the Character and Fitness review, the final steps, including taking the Oath of Admission, can also add time.
What Happens If I Fail The Florida Bar Exam?
If you fail the Florida Bar Exam, it isn’t the end of your journey! You can retake it. There is no limit on the number of times you can take the exam. However, you must submit a new application and pay the applicable fees for each attempt. It is important to review your performance, identify areas of improvement, and consider enrolling in a bar review course to increase your chances of passing on the next attempt.
*Check out our blogs “What To Do If You Fail The Florida Bar Exam?” and “Florida Bar Exam Prep Courses: Which To Choose” for more information.
Conclusion
The Florida Bar Admission process is comprehensive and designed specifically to ensure that only qualified applicants are afforded the privilege of practicing law in the state. By understanding the requirements and being prepared for each step, you can navigate this process successfully.
If you need additional clarification or guidance during this process, consider reaching out to a law professional who specializes in Florida Bar Admissions to guide you through the journey. Elizabeth S. Conan, Attorney at Law, can help! She is a Florida Bar Admissions Attorney with an excellent reputation and proven results.
