17-Year-Old Teen Youngest Person to Pass California Bar Exam
In an unprecedented and remarkable achievement, Sophia Park has become the youngest person ever to pass the California Bar Exam. At only 17 years old, she surpassed her brother, who, in November 2023, became the youngest person to pass the California bar exam. Sophia's accomplishment is nothing short of astounding.
A Legal Calling
Sophia knew at an early age that she wanted to be an attorney. She enrolled in Northwestern California Law School at only 13 years old, while in 6th grade. Northwestern California provides an online legal education and is accredited by the State Bar of California.
She graduated in 2024. It is important to note that while the State of California Bar Examiners accredits Northwestern California Law School, the school is not accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA), which is the legal standard for accreditation of law schools and licensure.
'The bar was not extremely difficult'
Reflecting on her bar exam studies and the exam itself, Sophia stated she did not think the bar exam was remarkably difficult, although she did concede that it is difficult to memorize so much information in such a limited period. Law school graduates typically prepare for the bar exam the summer after graduation, giving them about three months to study.
Working for the Prosecution
In addition to her academic excellence, Sophia has been working in public service since age 16. She served as an intern at the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office and now as a law clerk for the Tulare County District Attorney's Office. She wants to work for the prosecution because she enjoys representing the people and ensuring justice in California.
It's All In The Family
Sophia will be officially sworn into the California Bar when she turns 18 in March 2025. Her younger sister is following in her footsteps. At only 14, she is in her second year of law school.
Sophia also has an 8-year-old younger brother. Although he is too young to be in law school, he has expressed an interest in pursuing a legal career and dressed up as an attorney for Halloween.
'A tremendous accomplishment'
A State Bar of California official praised Sophia's achievements, highlighting the significance of passing the bar exam at such a young age. "Passing the state bar exam at any age is a tremendous accomplishment, and to do so at 17 is truly exceptional," said Leah Wilson, Executive Director of the State Bar.
Sophia's story is a magnificent testament to the power of the mind, ambition, hard work, and the desire of many youngsters to join the legal profession and the pursuit of justice.
She serves as a perfect example of what teenagers can achieve, regardless of their age—and a reminder that no matter who you are or where you come from, you have the power to make a difference in your community and, in this case, an entire profession.
Related Resources:
- A Closer Look at Generation Z in the Legal Workforce (FindLaw's Practice of Law)
- Bar Exam Pass Rates Rise Nationwide (FindLaw's Practice of Law)
- Utah Joins List of States Seeking to Offer Alternative Path for Licensing Law School Graduates (FindLaw's Practice of Law)
