Washington State Approves Alternative Pathways to Legal Licensure

The Washington Supreme Court has authorized new methods for becoming a lawyer, bypassing the traditional bar exam in a move aimed at increasing diversity and reducing barriers.

The Washington Supreme Court has approved alternative pathways to becoming a licensed attorney, eliminating the requirement to pass the bar exam.
The decision was influenced by concerns over the bar exam's disproportionate impact on marginalized groups and its minimal effectiveness in ensuring competent lawyers.
Three experiential learning alternatives have been introduced, including apprenticeships and internships, tailored for law school graduates, current students, and law clerks.
The minimum passing score for the bar exam has been reduced, and a new, more practical bar exam will be implemented in 2026.
Washington joins Oregon as the second state to officially approve alternatives to the bar exam, with other states considering similar moves.