How to Answer the Character and Fitness Questions on Your Law School Application

While most of the questions we get about the law school application process are related to personal statements, letters of recommendation, and resumes, many applicants also worry about the character and fitness section. You may be worried that an incident from your past will jeopardize your chances at being accepted, but rest assured that character and fitness disclosures are very common and are not an automatic disqualification. 

Why do we ask character and fitness questions? 

When you finish law school, we need to certify that you are fit to practice law with the Bar Board of Examiners, regardless of which state bar you are applying to. Different states have different requirements so we ask a broad range of questions. As part of this process, we submit any disclosures from your application as well as any updates you make during law school to the bar. If any misrepresentations are uncovered during this time or even many years later, your career as a lawyer could be in jeopardy. 

What should I disclose? 

In short: everything that is asked. It’s always better to over-disclose anything from your past that may be considered a character and fitness issue. Failure to disclose can lead to serious consequences in law school and beyond and is usually worse than the incident itself. If you are wondering if something should be disclosed, assume it should or reach out to the admissions office. Finally, be sure you are reading the character and fitness questions carefully and responding as instructed. If you have a specific question, reach out to our admissions office to further discuss.  

How do I explain any issues? 

If you do have something to disclose, provide details of the incident and some context. This is your chance to tell your side of the story, but keep it factual and concise. Include the date and time the incident occurred, who was involved, charges, court appearances, or disciplinary actions that happened as a result, and the outcome. For context, consider telling us where you were in your life at the time, what your responsibility for the incident was, and how you made amends or paid your debt to rectify the situation. Remember, we are interested in getting to know you as an applicant, so if something you are disclosing influenced your decision to go to law school, this is your opportunity to help us understand your motives.  

What if I forget to disclose something? 

If, after you’ve submitted your application, you remember an incident you think you should have reported, don’t panic. We understand mistakes happen and minor transgressions from the distant past are sometimes forgotten. Your next course of action is to contact us immediately so we can advise you on what to do next. The sooner we can update your records and show you have been forthcoming and cooperative, the better off you’ll be.