California Teen, Who Passed Bar Exam At 17, Is Now Practicing Attorney
18-year-old Peter Park recently made history by becoming one of California’s youngest practising attorneys. Park passed the state’s bar exam at the age of 17, breaking the record previously held by an 18-year-old. The Tulare County District Attorney’s office praised Park in a Facebook post for his incredible achievement, describing it as a “legal history-making moment.”
The Facebook post also highlighted how Park passed the exam on his first attempt, receiving his test results in November after taking the exam in July. Park has been with the Tulare County District Attorney’s office since August, working as a law clerk after completing law school.
Park’s journey to becoming an attorney began at a young age; he started high school at 13 in 2019 and simultaneously enrolled in a four-year law program at Northwestern California University School of Law. He was able to enrol in law school due to a state bar rule allowing students to apply after completing the College Level Proficiency Exams.
In 2021, Park completed high school and graduated from law school in 2023. He then passed the state’s bar exam on his first attempt at 17, setting the stage for his career as a practising attorney.
Reflecting on his achievement, Park described the journey as challenging but rewarding, emphasizing the discipline and strategy required to pass the bar exam. He also expressed his aspiration to become a prosecutor, citing a moral obligation to uphold liberty, equality, and justice in society.
According to The Guardian, Park was officially sworn in as a practicing attorney last week, solidifying his position as one of the state’s youngest practising attorneys. His remarkable story serves as an inspiration to others, showcasing that alternative paths exist to becoming an attorney.
