Have you ever wondered where the term ‘bar’ comes from in law? Many assumptions have been made, including the historical link between the United States and Britain, and some have been described as a description of the old courtroom setting. The history of the word raises the curiosity amongst many as it is still associated with the legal career.
This blog explores the history of the word ‘bar’ being integrated into the legal vocabulary and how it is still used today. It also examines the process of becoming a legal professional so aspiring lawyers can get to know about the bar exam and other qualifications needed to enter their dream profession.
The Origin of the Word ‘Bar’
The term ‘bar’ is often believed to be an acronym for “British Accredited Registry.” In reality, this is a myth that comes from the connection between the United States and Britain. However, the word could be connected to the British.
One possible connection to the British is linked to the time of our forefathers. As new laws were being made to establish the country, the British common law was extensively used as an example as it was what they were familiar with. In Britain, lawyers were commonly called barristers, leading to the assumption that the ‘bar’ might be derived from the same.
Another possibility comes from the settings of old courtrooms. They were often set to separate the lawyers, judges, and other involved parties from the gallery using a physical barrier. The usage of the barrier is another possible reason that led to the integration into the usage of the term bar in today’s legal terms.
Modern-Day Usage of ‘Bar’ in Law
The term ‘bar’ is still used in current times to refer to jobs in the legal field. It can also be used in other legal terms, such as:
- Passing the Bar: It is used when an individual successfully completes the necessary exams and is qualified to start a legal career.
- Bar Association: It is a term used to refer to a body of legal professionals established to promote professional competence, ethical conduct, and public service among legal professionals.
- Disbarment: It is a term that refers to the process of taking away a legal professional’s right to work in the legal system. It usually occurs if the professional has done something unethical or illegal.
Qualifications to Become a Lawyer
Many people dream of becoming a lawyer, but they must have the necessary qualifications to become one. Here are some key qualifications required to pursue a career in the legal field:
- Bachelor’s Degree: Aspirants must complete an undergraduate degree. Though there are no specific degrees mentioned, subjects like political science, economics, business, history, etc. may be helpful
- Law School Admission Test (LSAT): LSAT is an online exam that tests the candidate’s skills during the first year of law school. They test skills such as writing, critical thinking, reasoning, etc.
- Juris Doctor (JD): JD is a professional degree required to let the candidate practice law after graduation. Though they are considered intense, most students from American Bar Associate (ABA) accredited law schools pass.
- Multistate Professional Responsibility Examination (MPRE): Candidates must pass the MPRE if they wish to practice law in the United States. It is required for all US jurisdictions except Wisconsin and Puerto Rico. Assessing the candidate’s knowledge of the professional code of conduct is required.
- Bar Exam: The bar examination is the main licensing exam a candidate aspiring to become a lawyer must take. It determines the candidate’s qualifications for practicing law in the state. Every state in the US governs the licensing requirements to practice law within its borders.