These steps would do more than improve pass rates. They would align study habits with real practice, ensure that every successful candidate meets a transparent standard and restore public confidence that newly admitted advocates are fit to safeguard a clients interests from day one.
The CLP began as an inclusive bridge and should remain as one. Maintaining an examination that prizes rigour while concealing its own expectations risks turning that bridge into a wall.
By pairing candid critique with open standards and structured pre-practice, the LPQB can keep the CLP true to its founding spirit access with integrity and help the next generation of counsel cross from aspiration to competent service.
Dr HB Chee is a partner at Chris & Partners and a reader of FMT.
The views expressed are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of FMT.