H.B. No. 1387 amends the Government Code to update the eligibility requirements for individuals seeking to take the bar examination for a license to practice law in Texas. The bill introduces new provisions that require candidates to have at least two years of adequate study of the law or practical experience in the legal field, which can include completing a prescribed course of study at an approved law school, participating in a supervised apprenticeship with a licensed attorney, or gaining professional experience as a paralegal. The amendments also clarify the definition of an "approved law school" and outline the necessary steps for the Texas Supreme Court and the Board of Law Examiners to implement these changes.

Additionally, the bill modifies the notification process for candidates regarding their character and fitness evaluations, broadening the scope from just first-year law students to all applicants. The changes aim to ensure that candidates possess the requisite moral character and legal knowledge before being allowed to sit for the examination. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, allowing time for the necessary rules and regulations to be established by the relevant authorities.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 82.022, Government Code 82.023, Government Code 82.024 (Government Code 82)