Legal Definitions - calling to the bar

Calling to the Bar

"Calling to the bar" refers to the formal ceremony or process by which an individual is officially admitted to the legal profession and granted the right to practice law in a specific jurisdiction. It signifies that the person has met all the necessary educational, ethical, and professional requirements to serve as a lawyer. The term "the Bar" collectively refers to all qualified lawyers or the legal profession itself.

Here are some examples to illustrate this concept:

• Example 1: A New Lawyer's Admission
  After successfully completing law school and passing the rigorous state bar examination, Michael attended a formal ceremony at the courthouse. During this event, a panel of judges formally recognized him and his cohort as qualified attorneys, officially "calling them to the bar." This act granted Michael the legal authority to represent clients, offer legal advice, and appear in court.

  This example demonstrates "calling to the bar" as the final, official step in becoming a licensed legal practitioner after fulfilling all academic and examination requirements.

• Example 2: Practicing in a New Jurisdiction
  Ms. Chen, an experienced solicitor who had practiced law for over a decade in Australia, decided to move to New York. To continue her legal career there, she had to satisfy specific requirements set by the New York State Bar Association, including passing certain exams. Once approved, she participated in a "call to the bar" ceremony in New York, which formally admitted her to practice law within that state's legal system.

  This illustrates that "calling to the bar" is jurisdiction-specific; even seasoned lawyers must be formally admitted to practice in a new legal system or state.

• Example 3: The Ceremonial Oath
  The annual "call to the bar" event at the historic Inns of Court was a significant occasion for the aspiring barristers. Dressed in their traditional gowns, each candidate stood before senior judges and took an oath to uphold justice and ethical conduct. This solemn public declaration marked their formal entry into the profession, allowing them to begin their careers as advocates in court.

  This highlights the ceremonial and public aspect of the "call to the bar," emphasizing the oath and the formal recognition by the judiciary as a prerequisite for professional practice.