The COVID-19 pandemic created some unforeseen complications for future lawyers. In a traditional year, recent law school graduates would be preparing for the bar exam. The ongoing pandemic, however, means that they have to wait for the final verdict from their respective states on how the exams will be facilitated. Here are some plans already in motion.
The Diploma Privilege
Washington, Utah, and Oregon have opted for a "diploma privilege" to ease growing pressure and contain the disease's spread. With this option, students who have completed law school can practice law in their state without sitting for the bar exam. However, California is reluctant to take this approach. The state’s Supreme Court recently made a decision that will allow prospective students to take an online exam. Alternatively, students can opt for a provisional license valid for two years.