New Jersey to Adopt the Next-Gen Bar Exam in July 2028

The legal landscape in New Jersey is set to undergo a significant transformation with the introduction of the Next-Gen Uniform Bar Examination (UBE). The New Jersey Supreme Court has announced that it will begin administering the NextGen UBE starting in July 2028. This pivotal change aligns New Jersey with a growing number of jurisdictions embracing the practice-oriented NextGen exam developed by the National Conference of Bar Examiners (NCBE).

Why the NextGen Bar Exam?

The NextGen bar exam aims to address the evolving needs of the legal profession by incorporating real-world scenarios and practical applications of law. This shift is part of a broader move in the legal community to make bar examinations more relevant and consequential for aspiring attorneys. Key elements of the NextGen exam will include the addition of Family Law as a core tested subject, reflecting the crucial role that family-related legal matters play in contemporary practice.

Impact on Score Portability

One of the most significant advantages of this program is that it will preserve score portability across participating jurisdictions. This means that successful candidates in New Jersey will be able to transfer their scores to other states that also adopt the NextGen UBE. The ability to carry scores from one jurisdiction to another enhances opportunities for applicants and encourages a more flexible legal workforce.

Additionally, the New Jersey bar exam will continue to assess candidates on essential legal principles while also emphasizing practical skills, ensuring that new lawyers are well-prepared for the challenges of legal practice. In doing so, New Jersey joins a forward-thinking group of states that prioritize practical competency in their bar examinations.

Key Points

• New Jersey will implement the NextGen UBE from July 2028.
• The exam will include Family Law as a core subject.
• Score portability across states will be preserved.

Conclusion

The adoption of the NextGen bar exam represents a significant step forward for legal education and the legal profession in New Jersey. By focusing on practical skills and relevant subject matter, the Bar Exam is evolving to better prepare future attorneys for the real-world demands of their profession, ultimately fostering a more competent and adaptable legal community.