Becoming A California Reader Of Law: A Guide

In California, it is possible to become a lawyer without going to law school. This is known as reading the law or becoming a law reader, and involves a combination of mentorship, self-study, and hands-on practice. The Law Office Study Program (LOSP) is California's legal apprenticeship program, which allows individuals to study in a law office or judge's chambers instead of attending law school. This path has been taken by several notable figures, including Abraham Lincoln, Kim Kardashian, and Jessica Rodriguez. The requirements for the program include studying law for at least 18 hours per week for four years, passing various examinations, and finding a supervising attorney or judge. While this path offers benefits such as cost savings and personalized mentorship, it also has disadvantages, including limited recognition in other states and potentially lower success rates on the bar exam.

The Law Office Study Program

California is one of the few states that allow this path to legal practice. The program is officially called the "Law Office Study Program" and is codified in Business & Professions Code Section 6060 (e)(2)(B) and State Bar Rule 4.29.

The core elements of the program are as follows:

• Study law in a law office or judge's chambers during regular business hours for at least 18 hours each week for four consecutive years.
• Pass the first-year ("baby") bar examination.
• Pass the Multi-state Professional Responsibility examination.
• Pass the California Bar Examination.

The supervising attorney or judge must meet the following requirements:

• Be admitted to the active practice of law in California and be in good standing for a minimum of five years.
• Provide the State Bar, within 30 days of the applicant's start of study, an outline of the course of study that he/she will supervise.
• Personally supervise the applicant for at least 5 hours per week.
• Test the applicant at least once a month on the previous month's study.
• Provide reports to the State Bar every six months regarding the applicant's study.
• Not supervise more than two applicants during the same period.

Finding a supervising attorney

California is one of the few states that allow aspiring lawyers to take the bar exam without attending law school. This option is called the "Law Office Study Program" or "reading the law". The program requires studying under the mentorship of an attorney or judge and completing thousands of hours of self-led work.

• Eligibility of the Supervising Attorney: In California, supervising attorneys must meet specific eligibility criteria. They must be admitted to the active practice of law in California and have been in good standing for a minimum of five years. Supervising attorneys can only supervise a maximum of two apprentices simultaneously.
• Networking and Connections: Building a professional network is essential. Candidates can attend legal events, join legal associations, or leverage connections within the legal community to find potential supervising attorneys.
• Reaching Out to Attorneys: Once you have identified potential supervising attorneys, reach out to them directly. Express your interest in their work and explain why you believe they would be a good fit as your mentor. Be prepared to discuss your goals, qualifications, and the value you can bring to their firm or practice.
• Online Platforms: Utilize online platforms and job boards specifically catering to the legal profession. These platforms often have mentorship or apprenticeship opportunities advertised.
• Law Firms: Consider contacting law firms directly to inquire about potential supervising attorney positions. Some firms may be more inclined to take on apprentices, especially if they have previously participated in the Law Office Study Program.
• Community-Based Organizations: Look for organizations or programs, such as Esq. Apprentice, that are dedicated to supporting aspiring attorneys. These organizations often have connections with supervising attorneys and can help match you with a suitable mentor.
• University Resources: If you are currently enrolled in a university or have graduated recently, take advantage of career services or alumni networks. They may have information about attorneys or judges willing to supervise apprentices.
• Bar Associations: Contact the California Bar Association or other local bar associations for guidance. They may maintain directories or lists of attorneys who are interested in supervising apprentices.
• Clear Communication: When approaching potential supervising attorneys, clearly communicate your expectations and goals. Discuss the curriculum, study schedule, and any other requirements to ensure a mutual understanding and commitment.
• Flexibility: Keep in mind that finding a supervising attorney who meets all your criteria may be challenging. Be open to different practice areas and consider the value of diverse legal experiences.

Remember, the process of finding a supervising attorney may take time and effort. Be persistent, proactive, and professional in your search, and don't be afraid to reach out to multiple potential mentors. Building a strong relationship with your supervising attorney will be crucial to your success in the Law Office Study Program.

Passing the baby bar

California's First-Year Law Students Examination (FYLSX), also known as the "baby bar", is a challenging exam with a low pass rate. It is not a prerequisite for admission to the California Bar but serves as a checkpoint for students attending unaccredited law schools, those without two years of college work, or those enrolled in a law office study program with lawyers or judges.

To pass the baby bar, it is crucial to understand the exam structure, format, and subjects. The baby bar is a single-day, seven-hour test consisting of four one-hour essay questions and a three-hour multiple-choice section with 100 questions. While the full bar exam covers a wide range of subjects, the baby bar focuses on just three: Criminal Law, Contracts, and Torts. This allows you to focus your attention on these specific topics when studying.

• Understand the Exam: Familiarize yourself with the structure, question formats, time allotted, and subject matter tested.
• Study Efficiently: Work with tutors or mentors to help you learn and understand the law. Create a flexible and customized study plan that addresses your strengths and weaknesses.
• Utilize Prep Courses and Resources: Prep courses provide structure and accountability, and they offer the materials needed for studying. Take advantage of resources such as practice tests, flashcards, and mnemonic devices to improve memorization and retention.
• Don't Give Up: Many people fail their first attempt at the baby bar. Perseverance is key. Learn from your mistakes and keep trying.
• Destress: Studying can be stressful. Find ways to relax and take care of yourself, such as exercising, spending time with loved ones, or engaging in enjoyable activities.
• Be Consistent: Studying for the baby bar is a journey, not a sprint. Space out your studying and be consistent in your preparation.

Studying while working

California's Law Office Study Program (LOSP) allows aspiring lawyers to take the bar exam without attending law school, saving them the high costs associated with it. However, this route demands a serious time commitment, requiring participants to study under the mentorship of a licensed attorney or judge for at least 18 hours a week over four consecutive years. This makes studying while working a challenging but feasible option for those pursuing a legal career in California.

Managing Work and Studies

Those enrolled in the LOSP must balance their apprenticeship with other commitments, such as full-time jobs, which can be demanding. For instance, Michael Ehline, a participant in the program, worked at Home Depot to support his family while studying. Similarly, paralegal Jessica Rodriguez, who is enrolled in the State Bar law study program, has found it challenging to juggle her full-time job with her readings and preparation for the "Baby Bar" exam.

Tips for Success

To successfully manage working and studying, individuals can consider the following strategies:

• Time Management: Effective time management is crucial. Participants should dedicate specific blocks of time for studying, making use of their free time outside of work hours.
• Self-Discipline: Staying disciplined and motivated is essential. The program demands self-directed learning, so participants must be proactive in managing their studies and exam preparation.
• Seek Support: Building a strong support system can help. Participants can reach out to their mentors, fellow apprentices, or other legal professionals for guidance and advice.
• Prioritize Self-Care: Maintaining a healthy work-study balance is important. Taking care of one's well-being, including getting enough rest and practicing self-care, is crucial for sustaining the demanding schedule.
• Utilize Resources: Making use of available resources, such as textbooks, practice tests, and bar review courses, can enhance one's preparation. Additionally, working as a law clerk or paralegal can provide valuable practical knowledge.

Benefits of Working While Studying

Working while studying through the LOSP can offer several advantages:

• Financial Stability: Holding a job during the apprenticeship can provide financial stability, alleviating the financial burden of law school expenses.
• Practical Experience: Working in a legal setting, such as a law firm or a judge's chambers, allows individuals to gain first-hand experience and apply their knowledge in a real-world context.
• Networking Opportunities: Working in the legal field provides valuable networking opportunities. Connections made through employment can lead to future career prospects or mentorship possibilities.

In conclusion, while studying while working towards becoming a reader of the law in California is challenging, it is a viable option that offers financial benefits, practical experience, and networking opportunities. With dedication, discipline, and effective time management, individuals can successfully balance their studies and employment as they pursue their legal careers through the Law Office Study Program.

Passing the California Bar Exam

California is one of only four US states that allow aspiring lawyers to take the bar exam without attending law school. This is done through the Law Office Study Program, which involves a combination of mentorship, self-study, and hands-on practice. This path to becoming a lawyer is particularly attractive because it saves prospective lawyers the high cost of law school. However, it is a serious time commitment, and bar exams for law readers have lower pass rates than for those who have attended law school.

To pass the California Bar Exam, law readers must follow a rigorous study plan and pass periodic assessments. They must also pass the First-Year Law Students' Examination (FYLSE), also known as the "Baby Bar". This exam must be passed after one year of studying law in a law office or judge's chambers during regular business hours for at least 18 hours a week.

Preparation for the California Bar Exam involves self-study, regular practice tests, and deep engagement with legal concepts. Many law readers also enrol in bar review courses to enhance their preparedness for the exam.

Once the California Bar Exam has been passed, the applicant's name will be placed on the motion to the Supreme Court of California. After the State Bar receives the signed motion from the Court, the applicant will be sent the required form to register with the State Bar and take the attorney's oath.

Frequently asked questions