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Question Goals

A properly drafted question will require applicants to demonstrate:

ability to analyze a set of facts, to select material from immaterial facts and to see the points upon which the case turns;
ability to articulate and classify the problem presented and place in its proper category of doctrine;
knowledge of the relevant general doctrines of law, their relationship and their qualifications and limitations; and
ability to apply the law to the facts and problem presented and to reason logically to a sound conclusion from the premises adopted.

A Minimal Passing Answer

A minimally competent answer demonstrates an adequate understanding of the facts, an adequate recognition of most of the issues and applicable law and an adequate ability to reason to a conclusion.

All articled clerks must successfully complete all components of the Bar Admission Course before they can be admitted. They should apply to the course only once they have secured an articling position. Applicants with a Canadian Law Degree (or equivalent as Certified by the National Committee on Accreditation) may apply to write the Bar Examination prior to securing an articling position.

Transfer and Change of Category applicants must apply for a ruling to determine what components of the Bar Admission Course they must complete (if any).

A selection of answers to recent Bar Exams can be found by selecting the questions below.

Sample Bar Exam - January 2010

PRINT INSTRUCTIONS:
Sample bar exams are in PDF format. To print them correctly, ensure that you have an up-to-date version of Adobe Acrobat Reader, then choose "fit to printable area" in the page scaling option of your print dialogue box, then click on your printer properties* button and set your paper size to legal. Review the print preview in the print dialogue box to ensure the document looks like it will correctly fit when printed.

*Please note that printer properties will differ according to each specific printer. Be sure to read the tab options in your printer's dialogue box to find the specific page and paper size choices for your printer.

A selection of answers previous Bar Exams can be found below by selecting the links.

* Questions 1 through 12 - January 2010