The Ontario Bar Exams—comprising the Barrister and Solicitor exams—are crucial steps toward becoming a licensed lawyer in Ontario. These exams assess your knowledge of substantive law, procedural rules, and professional responsibility, as well as your ability to apply this knowledge in practical legal situations. While the exams are challenging, with effective preparation and the right strategies, you can increase your chances of passing. This guide provides actionable tips and strategies to help you succeed in both exams.

1. Understand the Format of the Exams

The Barrister and Solicitor exams are both open-book, multiple-choice exams, each lasting six hours and split into two three-hour sessions. They consist of approximately 240 questions, with the Barrister exam focusing on litigation-based areas of law, while the Solicitor exam centers on transactional law.

a. Barrister Exam Focus

The Barrister exam covers:

• Civil Litigation: Rules of civil procedure, trial processes, evidence, and dispute resolution.
• Criminal Law: Criminal procedure and substantive law.
• Family Law: Legal issues related to divorce, custody, support, and property.
• Public Law: Constitutional, administrative, and human rights law.
• Professional Responsibility: Ethics and rules of professional conduct in litigation contexts.

b. Solicitor Exam Focus

The Solicitor exam covers:

• Real Estate Law: Property transactions, mortgages, and land registration.
• Business Law: Corporate law, commercial transactions, and securities.
• Estate Planning and Administration: Wills, trusts, and estate management.
• Professional Responsibility: Ethical considerations in advisory and transactional practice.

Familiarize yourself with the structure of each exam and the types of questions you can expect. Understanding the format will help you manage your time effectively on exam day.

2. Develop a Study Plan

A comprehensive study plan is critical to covering the vast amount of material tested on the exams. Start early and create a schedule that allows you to systematically review each subject area.

a. Start Early

Ideally, you should begin studying 3-6 months before the exam. This gives you ample time to cover each subject thoroughly without cramming at the last minute.

b. Break Down the Syllabus

Divide the syllabus into manageable sections. Allocate specific days or weeks to cover each subject. For example, dedicate one week to civil litigation, another to real estate law, and so on. Be sure to allocate time for both learning new material and reviewing it.

c. Incorporate Practice Questions

Practice exams are essential for reinforcing your knowledge and getting used to the exam format. Use past exams or sample questions to test your understanding. This also helps you identify areas where you need more review.

d. Review Regularly

It’s important to continuously review material you've already studied to reinforce your understanding. Use spaced repetition to review topics at increasing intervals, which helps with long-term retention.

3. Focus on Professional Responsibility

Professional Responsibility is a heavily tested component on both exams, making it a critical area to focus on. Be sure to thoroughly review the Rules of Professional Conduct set by the Law Society of Ontario.

a. Know the Rules Thoroughly

The Rules of Professional Conduct set the ethical and professional standards lawyers must follow. Focus on key topics such as confidentiality, conflicts of interest, duties to clients and the court, and professional integrity.

b. Apply the Rules in Context

Many Professional Responsibility questions are scenario-based, meaning you’ll need to apply the rules to real-life situations. Practice with sample questions that require you to analyze ethical dilemmas and determine the appropriate course of action.

4. Leverage the Open-Book Format

Both the Barrister and Solicitor exams are open-book, allowing you to bring study materials into the exam. However, you can’t rely solely on looking up answers—you need to know the material well enough to use your time efficiently.

a. Create an Effective Index

One of the most important tools for the open-book format is a comprehensive index of your study materials. Organize your materials by topic, and include page numbers or section references for quick access. This will help you find relevant information quickly during the exam.

b. Tab Important Sections

Use tabs or bookmarks to mark frequently referenced sections, such as the Rules of Professional Conduct, key statutes, and procedural rules. This will save time on exam day, as you won’t need to flip through your materials to find what you need.

c. Practice Using Your Materials

When doing practice exams, simulate the exam conditions by using only the materials you plan to bring with you. This helps you become familiar with where everything is located and improves your ability to find information quickly under pressure.

5. Take Practice Exams

Taking practice exams under timed conditions is one of the best ways to prepare for the Ontario Bar Exams. It helps you get used to the format, the types of questions asked, and the time constraints.

a. Simulate Exam Conditions

When taking practice exams, set a timer and simulate real exam conditions as closely as possible. Use only the materials you plan to bring to the exam, and work without distractions. This will help you practice time management and test-taking strategies.

b. Review Your Answers

After completing a practice exam, review your answers carefully. Focus on the questions you got wrong or struggled with, and make a note of any weak areas that require further review. This process will help you strengthen your knowledge and improve your exam performance.

6. Manage Your Time on Exam Day

Time management is crucial during the Ontario Bar Exams. With around 240 multiple-choice questions in each exam, you’ll need to pace yourself to ensure you can answer every question.

a. Don’t Spend Too Long on Any One Question

If you’re unsure of an answer, make an educated guess and move on. You can always come back to the question later if time permits. Spending too much time on difficult questions can prevent you from completing the rest of the exam.

b. Use the Process of Elimination

For multiple-choice questions, eliminate clearly incorrect answers first. This increases your chances of selecting the correct answer from the remaining options.

c. Time Your Breaks

Both exams are split into two three-hour sessions, with a break in between. Use this break wisely to relax and recharge, but keep an eye on the time to ensure you return to the exam promptly.

7. Stay Calm and Confident

The Ontario Bar Exams are challenging, but with adequate preparation and the right mindset, you can pass. On exam day, stay calm and confident in your abilities.

a. Trust Your Preparation

If you’ve followed your study plan and taken practice exams, trust that you’ve prepared well. Avoid second-guessing yourself during the exam, and rely on your knowledge and instincts.

b. Practice Mindfulness

If you start to feel overwhelmed during the exam, take a moment to breathe and refocus. Practicing mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing or visualization, can help reduce stress and improve concentration.

Conclusion

Passing the Ontario Bar Exams requires thorough preparation, strategic time management, and a clear understanding of the exam format. By developing a solid study plan, focusing on high-yield topics like Professional Responsibility, and making effective use of the open-book format, you can increase your chances of success. Start early, practice regularly, and stay confident in your abilities—you’re well on your way to passing the Barrister and Solicitor exams and becoming a licensed lawyer in Ontario.