WHY ARE FINANCIAL PROBLEMS, SUCH AS PAST DUE DEBTS OR AN OLD BANKRUPTCY, RELEVANT TO MY ADMISSION?
The Fitness Board recognizes that law students sometimes have financial problems associated with the expense of law school, or with ongoing family obligations. The Board also recognizes that mishandling of client funds is a frequent and serious cause for professional discipline. Admission to the bar does not require a perfect credit record. The Board is interested in whether applicants have dealt honestly and responsibly with their creditors, and whether they are doing so at the time of application. Responsible dealings generally include but are not limited to keeping in contact with the creditor, making payment arrangements, and meeting the terms of those arrangements. Defaulted student loans and failure to make child support payments are of particular concern to the Board and may well lead to denial of admission if not resolved at the time of application or soon thereafter.
