New Mexico’s Lawyer License Revolution | Albuquerque News

New Mexico just flipped the script on lawyer licensing—no more bar exam required. Instead, grads get provisional licenses and must log 675 hours of supervised, paid legal work while building a portfolio proving real-world skills. The state’s tackling its “legal desert” crisis, where two-thirds of counties lack sufficient lawyers—especially in rural areas. Chief Justice Julie Vargas says this new path might be tougher than the bar: it’s about doing, not just knowing. Applicants need a law degree, background check, ethics test, and a mentor attorney to guide them through client meetings, court appearances, and document drafting. Launching mid-2027, this bold experiment could reshape how lawyers enter the profession nationwide. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/7768ea389f0c89ef