Future Lawyers We’d Like to Retain

You’re taking the test that could determine your life’s path. You’ve studied for years. You’re midway when another person taking the test has some sort of seizure. He looks like he’s in real medical trouble. You stop to go to his aid. You miss part of your test. You get a chance to make it up, right?

The California State Bar initially didn’t see it that way. Last February it refused to give special consideration to five State Bar examinees who interrupted their tests to help a fellow student. Of 500 test takers, only John Leslie, Julio De Jesus, Eunice Morgan, Yancy Miller and Cynthia Vinales had the good grace and the good sense to put aside the essay portion of their test to administer first aid and call an ambulance for the fellow test-taker, who suffered an epileptic seizure.

Finally, the State Bar--in part, we suspect, because of a spate of bad publicity--has exhibited some flexibility and wisdom. California Bar officials have decided not to penalize the five aspiring lawyers for doing the right thing and are consider adjusting the scores for all students. The Bar’s board of governors even honored the students with well-deserved certificates of appreciation.

The actions of these five are a fine example to the graduates of the nation’s law schools. Before long each probably will have his or her license. People may joke that our society doesn’t need any more lawyers, but there always will be a need in the legal profession for attorneys who are willing to sacrifice to help others.