A lot of us make mistakes, especially in our youth. But we don’t want these past indiscretions to affect our ability to practice law in Florida. The Florida Board of Bar Examiners performs an extensive background check on Florida Bar applicants. It is important to not only be completely transparent on your application but to also show the Board that you have learned from your mistakes. How can you show you are rehabilitated and possess the good moral character required to practice law?
I’m Not The Person I Used To Be and I’m Afraid The Board Will Not See That. What Can I Do To Show I Learned From My Mistakes?
We see many applicants concluding their Bar application responses with pledges that they’ve learned their lesson from past misconduct, and that their behavior will be nothing less than exemplary moving forward. But the Board won’t just take your word for it.
There are several actions you can take to show you’ve sustained a change for the better. This includes community service work and a commitment to seeking professional help, where applicable.
We’ve been asked whether staying out of trouble shows rehabilitation. In short, no. Nobody gets singled out for special recognition because they’re staying out of trouble, or doing what is expected of any law-abiding citizen.
How To Show The FBBE That I Have Learned From My Mistakes: Dos and Don’ts
Don’t
- Continue to make mistakes that can affect your character and fitness.
- Assume that the Board will take your word that you have changed.
- Just do nothing – staying out of trouble isn’t enough.
Do
- Perform community service and other volunteer work
- Seek a professional – whether that means a therapist, a substance abuse support counselor, a support group, a rehabilitation facility, etc
- Show proof of the above to support your character and fitness to practice law in Florida.
Can I Hire An Attorney To Help Me Prove My Character And Fitness And Rehabilitation?
Hiring a Florida Character and Fitness Attorney can help you fill out your Florida Bar application properly for the best results. They can offer legal counsel that goes beyond this blog to help you prove your good moral character and any necessary rehabilitation.
Conclusion
Show the FBBE that you have learned from your past mistakes by proving rehabilitation. This can be attending programs, sessions, support groups, etc. Perform volunteer work in your community. Avoid behavior that’s not becoming of a bar candidate, but never assume that you can do this one thing and the Board will forgive past indiscretions. Show proof of service work, and don’t just make promises.
Elizabeth S. Conan is a Florida Bar Administrative Attorney in Florida who focuses on helping those applying to the Florida Bar be prepared for Florida Bar Character Investigations and Investigative Hearings. Request a consultation so that you can have the best chance at passing character and fitness for Florida Bar admittance.
