November 8, 1999

 

 

MEMORANDUM 99-46

 

To:               Deans of Member and Fee-Paid Schools

 

From:           Harry G. Prince

 

Subject:        Survey on Supplemental Bar Preparation Programs

 

 

            The 1998 LSAC National Longitudinal Bar Passage Study served to dispel some myths about extremely low bar passage rates among certain groups of people.  The report also revealed, however, notable disparities in passage rates among certain ethnic groups.  While most law schools understandably do not emphasize bar preparation in planning general curricula, all schools should be concerned about the possibility that some graduates will not succeed in qualifying for the practice of law.

 

            The AALS Committee on Bar Admission and Lawyer Performance is embarking upon a project to collect information about bar preparation courses offered by law schools, or by organizations such as local bar associations, as a supplement to commercial bar review courses.  Very importantly, the committee is also seeking any assessment data that would indicate whether such programs are effective.  The committee plans on issuing a report on the information collected to aid those schools that choose to offer additional assistance to graduates preparing for the bar.

 

            Enclosed is a survey requesting information about supplemental bar preparation programs available to your students.  Please have the appropriate person at your school complete the survey forms and return them to:

 

R.A. White

Association of American Law Schools

1201 Connecticut Avenue, N.W.

Suite 800

Washington, DC  20036-2605

 

Any inquiries should be directed to me here at the AALS office.  My e-mail address is

 

            Thank you for your assistance.

 

Enclosures:  Survey on Supplemental Bar Preparation Program

 

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