Season 5, Episode 3: Reforming Legal Education, Insights from Leaders of CLEAR

In this episode of Lady Justice: Women of the Courts, hosts Justice Rhonda Wood of Arkansas and Justice Beth Walker of West Virginia are joined by Chief Justice Gordon J. MacDonald of New Hampshire and Justice C. Shannon Bacon of New Mexico to discuss the pivotal work of the Committee on Legal Education and Admissions Reform (CLEAR). As Chair and Vice Chair of CLEAR, the justices share their efforts to drive transformative changes in legal education and attorney licensure. 

Key Topics Include: 

• CLEAR's Mission: Insights into CLEAR’s initiatives, including community listening sessions and the release of their final report in July 2025, which will shape the future of legal education.  

• Reforming Legal Education: Addressing the need for modernization to better serve underserved communities, including rural areas facing a shortage of legal representation. 

• Alternative Pathways to Licensure: Exploring innovative options for individuals to enter the legal profession without the traditional bar exam, providing flexibility for those seeking legal careers. 

• Supporting Rural Legal Practice: Creative strategies to attract and retain lawyers in rural areas through fellowships and support programs, tackling the growing issue of legal deserts. 

• NextGen Bar Exam: Shifting from rote memorization to practical, skills-based testing that prepares law graduates for real-world practice. 
   

This episode offers an in-depth look at how state supreme courts are leading efforts to ensure that legal education evolves to meet modern demands while upholding ethical and accessible legal practices. Don’t miss this conversation on the future of legal education and the essential reforms needed to protect public and professional interests. 
 
Resources:  
- https://www.ncsc.org/consulting-and-research/areas-of-expertise/access-to-justice/clear  
- https://ncsc2.iad1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3yYzzMYcwBrdQwK?_gl=1*kjpz87*_ga*MTg2MDY2Nzc3Ni4xNzIxNjU3OTc2*_ga_HB58441DGF*MTcyNDc3OTYyMy42Mi4xLjE3MjQ3ODA4NzcuMC4wLjA. (CLEAR Feedback Form) 
- https://nextgenbarexam.ncbex.org/