As the legal profession stands on the cusp of a significant shift in bar examination, this panel brings together key stakeholders to provide unique insights into this state's pioneering role in adopting the NextGen Bar Exam. Set to debut in this state in July 2026, this new format promises to reshape how we assess aspiring lawyers. This program will feature insight from this state's test-takers, state task force members involved in the adoption process, and bar prep experts. Attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of the exam’s structure, this state's journey toward implementation, and the potential impact on legal education and the profession both within the state and beyond.

TARGET AUDIENCE:

All law librarians who work with law students or recent bar exam takers, librarians in states where the NextGen Bar Exam has been adopted or where there are plans for it to be adopted, librarians in states that have not adopted the NextGen Bar Exam who want to understand the difference in exams

This program is sponsored by the Academic Law Libraries SIS (ALL-SIS).

TAKEAWAYS:

1. Participants will be able to articulate the key differences between the current Uniform Bar Examination (UBE) and the NextGen Bar Exam, including changes in content, format, and skills assessment.
2. Participants will be able to describe the state-level decision-making processes for adopting the NextGen Bar Exam, including factors influencing adoption or non-adoption.
3. Participants will be able to explain the practical implications of the NextGen Bar Exam for law students, educators, and bar prep programs, including necessary shifts in preparation strategies and curriculum design.

SPEAKERS:

• Libby Davis, Lewis & Clark Law School
• Dennis Prieto, Rutgers Law School
• Angela Ruocco, University of Oregon School of Law

COORDINATOR:

• Kimberly Mattioli, Indiana University Maurer School of Law

MODERATOR:

• Andrew Wisniewsky, UNC-Chapel Hill

AALL BODY OF KNOWLEDGE DOMAINS: Teaching + Training

CANCELLATION AND OTHER POLICIES:

No refunds will be given for any purchased AALL conference recording. This applies to non-AALL members only as the recordings are free for AALL members.

The opinions shared during this program represent the views of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect those of the American Association of Law Libraries (AALL). Recording, capturing, or using AI tools to duplicate, transcribe, or otherwise reproduce an AALL program in any form is strictly prohibited without prior written consent from AALL. This includes, but is not limited to audio, video, or any other content shared. By accessing an AALL recording, you agree to adhere to this policy.