What does “clearing character and fitness” refer to in the context of the Florida Bar Exam?

"Clearing character and fitness" in the context of the Florida Bar Exam specifically refers to the process of demonstrating good moral character. This assessment is a critical part of the bar admission process, as it determines whether an applicant possesses the ethical standards required to practice law. The bar admissions committee reviews various aspects of an applicant's history, including criminal record, financial responsibility, honesty, and overall conduct.

Successfully demonstrating good moral character is essential because the legal profession holds its members to high ethical standards due to the responsibilities lawyers have to their clients, the court, and society at large. Without this clearance, an applicant cannot proceed to the next steps in the bar admission process, regardless of their performance on written exams or other requirements.

While passing the written exam, completing continuing education, and achieving a certain score on the MBE are important components of the bar examination process, they do not address the character and fitness evaluation necessary for admission to the bar. Hence, the focus on good moral character is what sets this concept apart in the context of becoming a licensed attorney in Florida.