So… I keep bitching about taking the Tennessee Bar Exam, and I thought that at least one person might be curious about what all it entails. I will sketch a thumbnail of the process, and if anyone wants to chime in (hint Miranda) then feel free.
The bar exam can be described in a number of ways, but of all the descriptions that I have heard not a single one is good. Today an attorney friend sent the following encouragement, “I am truly sorry you are going through the hell of that exam.” Hazing may be the most accurate term for the process.
THE TEST:
The test will take place 4 weeks from now on July 26 & 27. We will first be tested on the Multi-state subjects on Wednesday. We will have two 3 hour sessions with 200 questions total (1.8 minutes per question). Then we have the honor of returning on Thursday to answer twelve essays during a morning and afternoon session. The essays will test our knowledge of Tennessee law.
THE SUBJECTS:
Multi-State:
- Criminal Law/Procedure
- Evidence
- Torts
- Real Property
- Contracts
- Constitutional Law
TENNESSEE: (in addition to full understanding of the multi-state subjects)
- Remedies
- Agency
- Partnerships
- Corporations
- Wills & Estates
- Conflict of Laws
- Civil Procedure
- Professional Responsibility
- Tennessee Constitutional Law
- Secured Transactions
- Commercial Paper
- Family Law
THE PREPARATION:
For the past month we have been dutifully meeting at the school each day for a 4 (sometimes 3) hour lecture. Then we adjourn and study for another 10 2 hours. Everyday, we are expected to read a semester’s worth material condensed into a nice easy to read outline, and then we should gain mastery of the subject matter for a test at the end of the day. YIKES!
The countdown is upon us, and I am not exactly sure how excited I am to ramp up to the 14-16 hours/day studying in the final stretch, but then again doing it this one time is surely better than twice. Updates to follow.