ME LD738

Creates a law office study program allowing individuals to qualify for the Maine bar exam without attending law school by completing 4 years of supervised legal study under a judge or attorney in good standing for at least 3 years

Requires applicants to hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited U.S. or foreign college/university, or have 4 years of full-time paralegal experience before beginning the program

Defines study requirements as at least 25 hours per 7-day period or 30 hours per 14-day period, with a year of study equaling 44 weeks within 12 consecutive months

Allows up to 2 years of credit toward the 4-year requirement for prior legal study at accredited law schools, equivalent foreign law schools, or completion of similar law office study programs in other states

Requires the Board of Bar Examiners to create application forms by January 1, 2026, with applicants submitting commencement notices, 6-month progress reports, and completion notices throughout the program