Written by: Scot Goins, Assistant Dean of Academic Achievement and Bar Success and Associate Professor of Legal Practice
As law school graduates prepare for the bar exam, discussions around potential impediments to success often center on the main resource challenges they face: time, financial constraints, study materials, and dedicated study environments. However, it is crucial to consider less frequently mentioned but equally impactful factors such as employment during study periods, housing and food insecurity, and family concerns that can significantly divert hours away from study and cause additional stress during an important preparation time.
Devoting time, energy, and attention to outside concerns can negatively impact bar examinees. Studies have shown that the probability of passing the bar exam decreases as the hours devoted to other responsibilities increase, and it is important to consider the value of each hour of each week that a candidate can devote to studying.
The chart below is from ‘It’s Not Where You Start, It’s How You Finish: Predicting Law School and Bar Success’ written by Aaron N. Taylor, Jason Scott, and Joshua Jackson of the AccessLex Institute (full paper available here).
Predicted Probability of Bar Passage
Given Hours per Week of Other Responsibilities
(by LSAT score)
As the chart illustrates, as the time devoted to other responsibilities rises, the predicted probability of bar passage decreases across all LSAT ranges. Although law schools often consider the impact of the number of hours spent working and its impact on studying during the bar exam, one pressing issue that warrants further attention is the lack of childcare assistance resources for those preparing for the bar exam. The time commitment and financial burdens of childcare—particularly for candidates with young children—can significantly impede their ability to focus and succeed during this critical time of bar preparation. Thus, it is essential to recognize and address this gap in support.
To aid those facing childcare issues during their bar studies, below is a summary of the steps bar candidates in Georgia can take to access childcare resources during their post-graduate studies.
Childcare Assistance Resources in Georgia: The Georgia CAPS Program
The Georgia Childcare and Parent Services (CAPS) program offers financial assistance to eligible families for childcare costs. Here is a streamlined overview of how bar exam candidates facilitated access to this program:
- Determine Eligibility: Eligibility for the CAPS program depends on factors like income, family size, and work or education status. Previous candidates researched specific criteria from the CAPS website and consulted with the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL). Candidates may also be requested to complete a Pre-Application Screener to apply for assistance. This is normal and should not deter one from seeking assistance.
- Apply for Assistance: Once eligibility is confirmed, candidates will proceed with the application process via the CAPS website or local offices. A Georgia Gateway account is necessary for submission.
- Submit Required Documents: The application requires various documents, including income verification and proof of education or work. It is critical to ensure all necessary paperwork is submitted.
- Critical Moment: A potential roadblock may appear to arise because bar studiers are no longer enrolled in law school. However, the CAPS eligibility requirements include “State-Approved Activities,” which cover online coursework for vocational goals. We collaborated with a commercial bar prep provider (Kaplan) to obtain documentation affirming candidates’ enrollment, which helped facilitate the approval process.
- Attend an Interview (If Required): Depending on individual circumstances, an interview may be needed to discuss eligibility further.
- Receive Approval and Voucher: Following approval, successful candidates will receive a childcare assistance voucher that allows candidates to select an approved childcare provider.
- Choose an Approved Provider: Candidates then research and select from licensed childcare providers who accept CAPS payments, ensuring parental comfort and providing additional peace of mind.
- Ongoing Eligibility Documentation: Post-approval, candidates will be required to provide ongoing documentation to maintain eligibility, including updates on coursework, employment, and income. Keeping up with your bar review course allows for easily submittable documentation and helps keep bar applicants on the path to success.
This type of support has previously enabled candidates to dedicate additional study time, have reliable childcare support, and manage financial resources effectively, positioning them for success on the bar exam. Every hour is valuable during the bar exam preparation process, and ensuring that you take advantage of resources that will allow you to put yourself in the best position to experience success helps you on the journey toward becoming a licensed attorney.
If you are a Georgia resident who can benefit from childcare assistance during your bar exam preparation, make sure to visit the Georgia CAPS website linked above to determine your eligibility. If you are a resident of another state, conduct research and explore the opportunities that are available to you in your state. There are a plethora of resources available to support you on your journey. One and done is the goal, so put yourself in the best position for success!