Becoming a licensed lawyer or paralegal in Ontario requires navigating through difficult licensing examinations administered by the Law Society of Ontario (LSO). However, misconceptions often surround these examinations, leading to confusion and anxiety among candidates. In this blog post, we aim to share prevalent myths and reveal facts surrounding the bar and paralegal licensing exams. From pass rates to preparation strategies, we'll uncover the truth behind common assumptions, providing clarity and guidance for those embarking on their licensing journey. 

 

Myths

 

Myth: Over 90% of candidates who write the barrister and solicitor exam pass on the first attempt. 

Fact: Contrary to popular belief, not everyone who writes the licensing examinations passes. In 2022, there were 2,804 newly registered licensing candidates, yet there were 6,766 examinations written. Only 71% of candidates passed their first attempt at the barrister exam and 69% passed the solicitor exam. 

 

Myth: Copies of past licensing exams are available to review and can be used as a way to study. 

Fact: The Law Society of Ontario does not publish any past exams. In fact, most of the strict rules surrounding the licensing exams are in place specifically to prevent the dissemination of past exam questions. 

 

Myth: Graduating from a quality paralegal program guarantees your success on the licensing exam. 

Fact: Graduating from a quality program does not always mean success on the licensing examination. In 2022, the overall first attempt success rate for paralegal candidates was 67%. 

 

Myth: Failing the bar or paralegal licensing exams once means it's the end of the road. 

Fact: Candidates have three attempts to successfully complete each licensing examination within their licensing term. So, if a candidate has failed a licensing examination and still has attempts remaining within the candidate’s licensing term, the candidate will be eligible to attempt that licensing examination again. 

 

Myth: Internationally trained (NCA) lawyers have the same licensing examination pass rates as the average. 

Fact: In 2022, internationally trained (NCA) lawyers experienced lower pass rates than the average candidate, with a 49% success rate for barrister and 50% for solicitor on their first attempt.  

Myth: Starting to study one month before the bar exams will give you enough time to study effectively. 

Fact: Reading through 1600-1800 pages of material the recommended three times is an overwhelming task given a one-month timeline. This is why it is recommended that candidates start their exam preparation as early as possible. Supplementing with preparation courses and practice exams can also be a huge help. 

 

Myth: Failing the paralegal exam won't affect your career negatively, as long as you eventually pass. 

Fact: Although failing the exam on the first attempt won't affect your career in terms of quality or ability, each time you fail the paralegal licensing examination it can delay your career by over five months. That can be as much as $23,000 or more in salary each time. 
 

Facts

 

Fact: Ontario's paralegal licensing exam is an open-book exam that includes only multiple-choice questions. 

Fact Explained: The paralegal licensing examination is an open-book exam, with solely multiple-choice questions. The competencies tested are those required for entry-level practice that have the most direct impact on the protection of the public and that influence an effective and ethical practice. 

 

Fact: If you have failed your LSO exam, your materials are still valid. 

Fact Explained: If you are re-writing an examination within the same licensing year, your materials would still be valid for that licensing year’s sittings. 

 

Fact: In order to be licensed as a paralegal in Ontario, you must be deemed to be of good character. 

Fact Explained: The Law Society Act requires that an applicant be of “good character.” The good character requirement is intended to protect the public and maintain high ethical standards in the profession by ensuring that persons who are licensed as paralegals show respect for the rule of law and the administration of justice and conduct themselves with honesty, integrity, and candour. 

 

Fact: The length to write the paralegal, barrister and solicitor exams are 4 hours and 30 minutes each. 

Fact Explained: The paralegal, barrister and solicitor exams are 4 hours and 30 minutes long. It is important to note that there is no scheduled break, and the amount of time allotted for the licensing examination accounts for candidates needing to use some of the allotted time to visit the restroom. 

 

In conclusion, navigating the path to becoming a licensed lawyer or paralegal in Ontario can be challenging. From understanding the pass rates to debunking misconceptions about exam preparation, it's crucial to approach the journey with not only clarity, but a strategy as well. 

Starting exam preparation early is important as there is a substantial amount of information that you’ll need to cover. Emond Exam Prep's suite of Bar and Paralegal resources can be invaluable in this process. From flashcards to practice exams and prep courses, we provide the tools, strategies, and support you need to conquer your exams.