Most states require would-be attorneys to pass the Multistate Bar Examination.
The Multistate Bar Examination (MBE) is a 200-question multiple-choice examination that tests knowledge about contracts, torts, constitutional law, criminal law and procedure, evidence and real property. The National Conference of Bar Examiners publishes the MBE and each year the test is given in February and July. Each state has set criteria for admitting new attorneys, but the majority use the test as part of that process. Each jurisdiction sets its own passing score and also commonly requires graduation from law school, passing scores on essay and performance tests and good character for bar admission. There are a variety of tools aspiring lawyers use to prepare to take the MBE.
The MBE NCBE Informational Booklet
The most accessible preparation tool is a free booklet published by the NCBE each year. The MBE Information Booklet is available online (ncbex.org) and describes the exam and testing procedures, as well as how the test is organized. It provides in outline form the content that is tested, making it a good place to start your review.
Commercial Bar Preparation Classes
Many private companies across the country offer classes to help prepare aspiring lawyers to take the MBE. These classes typically last up to several months. Law school teaches the law; bar prep classes review that content, provide practice questions and teach techniques and strategies that can help improve the chance of passing or increasing your score. Some companies listed by the University of Pittsburgh Law School include Micromash, Themis Bar Review, The Study Group, Reed Bar Review, Kaplan/PMBR, Emanuel Bar Review, Celebration Bar Review, Edge Bar Tutoring Group, Supreme Bar Review, MyBarPrep, AdaptiBar and Pass Rite-MBE.
Private Tutors
Tutors work one-on-one with prospective test-takers and use their teaching skills and knowledge of the law and the MBE to help their clients pass the MBE and other parts of their bar examination. In the case of TestGuru, tutoring can happen on the phone or in person and begins about three months before the examination. At PasstheBar and Fleming's, for example, students use suggested preparation materials, then receive one-on-one tutorial sessions in person, over Skype or by telephone.
Flash Cards
Flash cards are a common tool for MBE preparation. Some commercial bar preparation classes provide students with flash cards when you register as part of the course materials, or as an additional option. Other companies specialize in these cards and sell them exclusively. For example, MoMetrix Media sells flash cards that include in-depth explanations of answers, with reportedly easy-to-read fonts on bright white, heavy card stock. The cards focus on hundreds of the most frequently tested bar exam topics including hearsay exception, ripeness, burden of proof and principles of product liability.
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