The Multistate Professional Responsibility Examination was changed to computer-based in August 2019. It consists of 60 multiple-choice questions. Of the 60 questions, only 50 will count toward your score. You are given two hours to complete the exam.
For candidates who require special testing accommodations for conditions covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act, you may make this request in writing.
Some of the arrangements that can be accommodated include extended testing time, supervised breaks, private testing room, semi-private testing room, large print test book and answer sheet, Braille test book, reader, scribe, and audio version of the test book.
What categories and topics are covered on this exam?
Regulation of the legal profession: 6-12%
This category will address the regulation of lawyers, admission to the profession, lawyer discipline, reporting misconduct, unauthorized law practice, practice in several jurisdictions, division of fee with non-lawyers, forms of practice, responsibilities, and right to practice restrictions.
The client-lawyer relationship: 10-16%
This category will address formation of the relationship, scope and objective, decision-making, counsel, termination of the relationship, contracts, communication, and fees.
Client confidentiality: 6-12%
This category will address attorney-client privilege, work-product doctrine, confidentiality obligations, disclosures, exceptions to confidentiality.
Conflicts of interest: 12-18%
This category will address conflicts of interest regarding current, former, and prospective clients, litigation, business transactions with clients, third parties, lawyers and government service, and conflicts regarding former judge, arbitrator, and mediator.
Competence, legal malpractice, and other civil liability 6-12%
This category will address upholding competence, diligence and care, civil liability to clients and non-clients, malpractice liability, insurance, and risk prevention.
Litigation and other forms of advocacy: 10-16%
This category will address valid claims and contentions, accelerating litigation, fairness and impartiality, trial publicity, and lawyer as a witness.
Transactions and communications with persons other than clients: 2-8%
This category will address truthfulness in statements, communication with represented and unrepresented individuals, and rights of third persons.
Different roles of the lawyer: 4-10%
This category will address the lawyer as an advisor, evaluator, negotiator, arbitrator, and mediator, among others.
Safekeeping funds and other property 2-8%
This category will address creating and maintaining client trust accounts, the safekeeping of the property and funds of clients and non-clients, and disputed claims.
Communications about legal services 4-10%
This category will address advertising, solicitation, referrals, and group legal services.
Lawyers’ duties to the public and the legal system 2-4%
This category will address pro bono services, taking appointments, assisting in legal service organizations, law reform activities that affect current clients, criticizing judges, political contributions in order to gain appointments, inappropriate influence on governmental officials, and aiding judicial misconduct.
Judicial conduct 2-8%
This category will address ex parte communications, disqualification, extrajudicial activities, fairly and effectively performing duties, and being impartial and independent.
How can I register for this exam?
Register online. You will be given the opportunity to choose the date on which you would like to take the exam, as well as the location of the exam and jurisdiction that should receive your score report. Once registered, you will receive a confirmation email. Print the admission ticket, as you will need to take this with you on exam day.
What is the cost of the exam?
If you register during the regular registration period for the date you’d like to take the test, the fee is $125. If you register during the late registration period for the date you’d like to take the test, the fee is $220.
What are the testing dates and locations?
There are over 300 testing centers to choose from. You will choose the center that is convenient for you, during the registration process.
What should I do the day of the exam?
Arrive at the test center on time. Being late will prevent you from taking the exam.
Bring a form of identification that consists of your first and last name, birthdate, and photo. This ID must be valid and government-issued.
Items such as a cell phone, briefcase, purse, food/drink, and study materials will be prohibited from the testing area.
What happens after I take the exam?
You will receive your score report within five weeks of taking the exam.
What is the minimum passing score?
The score range for this exam is 50-150. The passing score is set by each jurisdiction.
What happens if I don’t pass the exam?
Consult with your jurisdiction to inquire about whether or not you can re-take the exam, and the maximum number of times in what time period.
How Can I Prepare for the MPRE Exam?
That’s a great question. We’ve broken down the answer into three parts.
- Do yourself a favor and study. Do not walk in unprepared. We have recommended prep materials below, but that only helps if you actually try. Plus, studying is actually proven to be the best antidote to test anxiety.
- Take care of yourself. Make sure you’re eating well, exercising, and sleeping. All of these things are scientifically linked to brain performance. If you take care of your body, you’ll be helping your grades.
- Get a study guide or set of flashcards. Some people study better a certain way. Find your study strengths and make the most of them. We’ve tried to make it easy for you by tracking down the best study guide and flashcard set for your exam. Below you’ll see links to both!