California Legislator Pushes for Traditional Bar Exam Format After February Debacle

In a significant call for change, Senator Thomas J. Umberg, chair of the California Senate Judiciary Committee, is urging the State Bar of California to abandon its newly introduced multiple-choice format for the bar exam following a disastrous rollout in February. The February exam was marred by numerous technical issues that prevented many candidates from completing the test. Umberg argued that reverting to the traditional examination system, which has been employed for over five decades, is necessary until reliable methods of assessment are established. Thousands of aspiring lawyers typically sit for the two-day bar exam every July. The call for reversion emerges amidst the State Bar's attempt to modernize the exam with cost-cutting measures that included switching to a self-developed question set and introducing remote testing options—decisions that have since faced scrutiny. Despite initial plans, the State Bar leadership suggests it will maintain its new format, with Alex Chan, chair of the Committee of Bar Examiners, stating that there are no plans to return to the National Conference of Bar Examiners (NCBE) exam system in the near future. Legal experts have expressed their concerns, highlighting that the decision to use artificial intelligence in question development showcases a lack of understanding of exam integrity. Educators like Katie Moran and Erwin Chemerinsky have criticized the attempts at innovation, echoing that the stakes of the bar exam warrant more traditional, proven methods. Moreover, Umberg's growing mistrust in the State Bar's leadership has prompted legislative actions to enforce accountability and review procedures. The upcoming legislative hearings will scrutinize the leadership of the State Bar more broadly, potentially reshaping the organization's future accountability structures. As the pressure mounts and public trust falters, the urgency for a reliable testing system is more critical than ever, especially considering that individuals spend years preparing for what many consider a life-defining exam.