During each exam, each student must fully complete two performance tests (PT’s). During a California Bar Exam session, the PTs are administered to a bar exam candidate on the Tuesday and Thursday afternoon during a 3 hour session. Each question consists of a file and library along with task instructions (usually through a memorandum) providing instructions to the applicant with a task which must be performed.

According to the California Bar Examiners, a Bar Grader is looking for the following:

• A candidate’s ability to demonstrate his or her ability to understand and apply legal authorities in the context of a factual problem.
• A candidate’s specific response to the problem presented to them through the manner proscribed.

The California Bar Examiners have suggested that a student should be able to do the following:

• Review the facts provided in the file and determine which facts are important.
• Analyze the legal authorities and principles applicable to the present situation and formulate legal theories using the facts presented.
• Recognize and help resolve any ethical issues which a student may find in the question.
• Apply a student’s problem solving skills to help resolve the present problem and also provide alternatives.
• Properly and efficiently communicate their solution to the problem

Grading:

The Bar Examiners have approximately 150 experienced attorneys grade each bar exam cycle. Most of the graders have been grading for the exam for atleast five years. The graders are divided into 8 groups which consist of 11 experienced graders and upto 3 apprentice graders to grade the PTs. The groups meet 3 times prior to each exam for purpose of calibration. The Committee uses a unique grading procedure created to ensure a consistent pass rate each year. On the written section of the examination, applicants are graded initially on a basis of 400 possible points for two performance exams (each worth 200 points).

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Now that you know what to expect on the next bar exam its time to get you prepared. With the right amount of practice coupled with one of highly qualified graders you will have the tools necessary to conquer this quest.

So what are you waiting for, lets get you writing!

*All information has been taken directly from the California Bar Examiners website.