California Law Office Study Program (LOSP)

Is the LOSP right for me?

The Law Office Study (LOS) Program is a unique legal education pathway offered and administered by the State Bar of California, which allows aspiring legal professionals to gain legal education credits while working under the supervision of an experienced attorney or judge and bypass traditional law school. This course is suitable for individuals who have completed at least two years of college or have passed certain equivalency tests and are interested in pursuing a legal career through an alternative pathway. Participants must be committed to working under the supervision of an experienced California attorney or judge.

LA Law Institute (LALI) is an independent, non-profit educational organization that provides structured support for students who have already been accepted into the LOS Program by the State Bar. While we are not affiliated with the State Bar of California, our program is specifically designed to meet all of the State Bar's educational guidelines for supporting students throughout their four-year LOSP journey.

Once a student is approved by the State Bar to participate in the LOS Program, the next step is enrolling in LA Law Institute. We offer a comprehensive four-year study plan that helps students navigate the State Bar’s requirements and successfully prepare for the First-Year Law Students’ Examination (FYLSX) and the California Bar Exam. Our curriculum, progress assessments, and live lectures align with the State Bar's standards, but the entire educational process is managed independently through LA Law Institute. 

Check List for successful participation in the LOSP

1.      Locate a judge or attorney with 5 years’ experience who is willing to supervise your education.

2.      Requirements to file Notice of Intent with the State Bar of California for LOSP

1. Supervisor completes & signs Declaration of Supervisor
2. Mail transcripts to the State Bar of California
3. Submit 4-year study plan
   • Contact LA Law Institute re study plan
4. Pay $880 one-time registration fee to the State Bar of California
5. Upon approval from the State Bar, forward your acceptance paperwork to LALI with a request to join their program
6. Sign contract and MOU (memorandum of understanding), arrange for payment and then begin your journey to a law career.

Link to the State Bar of California LOSP website  HERE

Program Overview

The LOSP allows students to acquire practical legal skills while preparing for the California Bar Exam. This alternative legal education pathway emphasizes a combination of study and real-world experience, blending theoretical education with practical application. Students must pass the First-Year Law Students' Examination (FYLSX) to continue after the first year.

Key Features:

·         Self-paced learning with a structured curriculum.

·         Combination of theoretical study and practical legal experience.

·         Live monthly lectures and assessments to track progress.

·         Access to practice quizzes, essay writing exercises, and FYLSX exam simulators.

·         Monthly progress reports for students and supervisors to monitor performance.

 

Yearly Course Breakdown

Year 1: FYLSX Preparation

·         Contracts: Study of contract formation, breach, and remedies.

·         Torts: Focus on intentional torts, negligence, strict liability, and defenses.

·         Criminal Law: Explore crimes against persons and property, defenses, and the basic principles of criminal liability.

·         Legal Writing: Learn how to write in the IRAC format required on all law school essays and exams. 

Year 2: Advanced Legal Subjects

·         Criminal Procedure: Constitutional and statutory rules governing the criminal justice process, from investigation to trial and appeal.

·         Remedies: Study of equitable and legal remedies, including damages and restitution.

·         Real Property: Legal principles of property ownership, real estate transactions, and landlord-tenant relationships.

·         Business Associations: Focus on corporations, partnerships, fiduciary duties, and business governance.

Year 3: Intermediate Legal Subjects

·         Evidence: Examination of rules governing the admissibility of evidence in court.

·         Constitutional Law: Study of governmental powers and individual rights under the U.S. Constitution.

·         Civil Procedure: Rules that govern legal proceedings, from jurisdiction to trial processes.

·         Professional Responsibility: Ethical standards and practices required of legal professionals.

Year 4: Specialized and Advanced Legal Topics

·         Administrative Law: Regulation of government agencies and their procedures.

·         Community Property: Laws governing property division between spouses in California.

·         Wills, Trusts & Estates: Planning for and managing an individual’s estate.

·         Elective: A subject of the student’s choice, based on career interests or legal specialization.

 

Student Responsibilities and Duties in the LALI Program

As a participant in the LOSP, you are expected to manage your studies and practical work experience under a supervising attorney. In the LALI LOSP program student responsibilities include:

1.      Study Commitment:

The State Bar requires that students must dedicate at least 18 hours per week to legal study, with at least 5 hours under the direct supervision of a qualified attorney or judge.

2.      FYLSX Preparation:

The first year focuses on Contracts, Torts, and Criminal Law, culminating in the FYLSX exam. Passing the FYLSX is required to continue in the program.

3.      Participation in Live Lectures and Assessments:

Attend monthly live lectures on the first Saturday of each month. Complete regular assignments, including multiple-choice quizzes and essay exercises.

4.      Communication with Supervising Attorney:

Maintain regular communication with your supervising attorney or judge. You are responsible for scheduling and discussing your progress.  Remember you must have an attorney or judge already to supervise prior to applying to the State Bar for approval.

 

Supervisor’s Role and Responsibilities in the LALI program

Supervising attorneys and judges play a crucial role in guiding LOSP students. Your responsibilities include:

1. Supervision and Oversight:

Ensure that the student dedicates 18 hours per week to legal study, including 5 hours of direct supervision. Provide hands-on learning experiences through client meetings, research, or court observation.

2. Reviewing Essays and Exams:

Offer guidance and detailed feedback on the student’s essay exams, helping them develop issue-spotting and legal writing skills. Use the LA Law Institute grading rubric to ensure consistency.

3. Mentorship:

Serve as a mentor by advising the student on professional and ethical responsibilities, legal reasoning, and practical legal challenges.

4. Compliance with State Bar Requirements:

Ensure that both you and the student comply with the State Bar of California’s regulations for the LOSP.

Essay Exams and Supervisor Involvement

Essay exams are a core component of the LOSP, testing the student’s ability to analyze legal issues and apply the law in hypothetical scenarios.  LALI provides extensive opportunities in all legal subject matter for students to complete essay writing exercises.  Supervisors can choose the subject matter or specific essay they would like students to complete, or they can choose to allow the student to choose.  Supervisors are expected to give guidance and feedback on these essays administered by LA Law.  However, to facilitate this feedback, LALI provides the grading rubric and suggested discussion topicsfor all essay exams

• Review and Feedback:
  • Supervisors should review essay exams to assess the student's legal reasoning, issue-spotting, and application of the law. Constructive feedback helps students refine their skills for the FYLSX and bar exams
• Practice and Mock Exams:
  • Encourage students to take timed mock exams. This practice simulates the pressure of the FYLSX and helps students improve their time management and analytical skills under exam conditions.

Costs and Contractual Responsibilities

The annual fee for the California Law Office Study Program (LOSP) at LA Law Institute is $2,300. This fee includes access to all materials, live lectures, exams, and progress assessments.

Payment Options:

·         Full Payment: $2,300 up front.

·         Payment Plans: Flexible payment plans available, typically divided into three or four installments.

Payments may be made by anyone on behalf of the student, but it is the student’s responsibility to ensure payments are made on time. LA Law Institute will not engage with third parties regarding payments.

Refund Policy

All payments are non-refundable. Once paid, no refunds will be issued, whether paid in full or through a payment plan. Students must ensure that they or their designated payer meet payment deadlines to avoid disruption of the program.

No Placement Services

LA Law Institute does not place students with attorneys or judges. It is the student’s responsibility to find a supervising attorney or judge who meets the State Bar’s requirements. This includes ensuring that the supervisor is a licensed attorney or judge with at least five years of experience.

 

Proven Success and Superior Results

LA Law Institute has a proven track record of success in helping LOSP students pass the FYLSX and progress through the program:

·         Superior Pass Rate: Approximately 40% of students who passed the most recent FYLSX were enrolled in or tutored by LA Law Institute. This impressive statistic reflects the effectiveness of our structured approach and comprehensive support.

·         Comprehensive Preparation: Our program includes live monthly lectures, essay writing exercises, multiple-choice quizzes, and an FYLSX exam simulator, all of which provide students with a competitive edge.

·         Expert Guidance: Barred attorneys provide personalized feedback and guidance, ensuring that students receive hands-on mentoring tailored to their needs.

By choosing LA Law Institute, students receive the comprehensive support needed to excel in the LOSP and pass the California Bar Exam.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

For Students:

1.      How do I register for the LOSP?

Both the student and the supervising attorney must register with the State Bar of California. Detailed information is available on the California State Bar website.

2.      What happens if I fail the FYLSX?

Students must pass the FYLSX to continue in the LOSP. You may retake the exam, but progression in the program is contingent upon passing.

3.      Who handles payment?

Students are required to arrange application fee ($880) to the State Bar as well as payment(s) to LALI.  Payments may be made by anyone on behalf of the student, but the student is responsible for ensuring timely payment.

4.      Can I take a break from the program?

Breaks may be requested but must be approved the State Bar of California and by your supervising attorney or judge. Ensure that all program requirements are completed within the State Bar’s timeframe

     5. Do I have to study all four years?

The State Bar of California sets the requirements for the program.  You may not transfer into the program and must complete all four years under the same study plan.  With approval from the State Bar, you may change your supervisor.  

For Supervisors:

1.      What if I’m unavailable for a period of time?

If you need to take a break, ensure the student continues their studies independently or arrange temporary supervision.

2.      How do I track the student’s progress?

The student will have access to an exam simulator for MBEs, targeted essay exams and cases to brief which you may use as progress reports on the student’s performance. The students will submit their results directly to you to meet your pre-arranged requirements. Regular communication with the students is encouraged.

3.      What if my student isn’t progressing?

Contact LA Law Institute for additional resources or adjustments to the student’s study plan to help them get back on track.

    4. Can LALI really help my students progress so they can pass the FYLSX and eventually sit for the CA Bar? 

Program Highlights

Mini Course Flyer Download

Key Learning Outcomes:

• Understand Core Legal Principles: Gain foundational knowledge in subjects such as contracts, torts, criminal law, and legal writing. Each subsequent year includes four additional courses in preparation for the California Bar Exam.
• Develop Practical Legal Skills: Engage in legal research, drafting, client interaction, and courtroom observation under the supervision of an experienced attorney or judge.
• Build Professional Relationships: Foster mentorship relationships with supervising legal professionals and network within the legal community.

LOSP Program Requirements:

• Study Hours: A minimum of 18 hours of study per week, with at least five hours directly supervised by an attorney or judge.
• Hands-On Learning: Opportunities for hands-on learning through legal research, document drafting, client meetings, and courtroom experiences.
• Live Lectures: Live lectures on the first Saturday of every month, with additional prerecorded lectures and resources available in the LMS.
• Regular Examinations: Periodic examinations to assess understanding and progress, aligned with the subjects covered during the study period.
• Comprehensive Support: Ongoing support and guidance from the supervising attorney or judge, including feedback, discussions, and personalized mentoring.

Eligibility and Requirements:

• Educational Background: Must have completed at least two years of college or have passed certain equivalency tests.
• Supervision: Must work under the supervision of an attorney who has been practicing law in California for at least five years or a judge of a court of record in California.
• Registration: Both the student and the supervising attorney or judge must register with the State Bar and comply with all relevant rules and regulations.
• Assessment: Regular examinations, practical assignments, participation in discussions and activities, and progress reports submitted to the State Bar.
• Program Duration: The program requires a commitment of four years, with no transfers, outside credits, or previous credits accepted. Students must pass the FYLSX to receive credit for the first year before completing the remaining three years.

Who Should Enroll:

This course is suitable for individuals who have completed at least two years of college or have passed certain equivalency tests and are interested in pursuing a legal career through an alternative pathway. Participants must be committed to working under the supervision of an experienced California attorney or judge.

Additional Information:

• Application Process: Detailed steps on how to apply, including required documents and important deadlines here.
• Tuition and Fees: Breakdown of costs, payment plans, and financial aid options.

Note: LA Law does not help place apprentices with attorneys. This service supports those who are successfully enrolled in the CA LOS program and are currently studying under an attorney or judge. Please see the California State Bar for full program information.

Tuition Payment Per Year:

Payment Options	Registration	Quarterly Payments (3)	Discount/Terms	Total Cost
Full Payment Upfront	$2300 one time		5% discount	$2186
Registration + 3 quarterly payments	$750	$517	None	$2300