If you’re preparing for the bar exam, you’ve likely heard about the Multistate Essay Examination (MEE). This essay component tests your ability to think like a lawyer, analyze complex legal issues, and communicate your findings effectively in writing. This guide will help you understand the MEE and develop a successful preparation strategy.
Q1: What is the MEE, and why is it important for the bar exam?
The MEE is a vital part of the bar exam in many U.S. jurisdictions, assessing your ability to analyze legal issues, apply relevant laws, and craft well-reasoned arguments. It’s a test of your practical skills as a lawyer – can you take a set of facts, identify the legal problems, and explain your solution in a clear and concise way? This is essential for your future clients. In UBE jurisdictions, the MEE carries significant weight, typically accounting for 30% of your overall bar exam score.
Q2: What legal topics are tested on the MEE?
The MEE covers a broad spectrum of legal subjects. Currently, the tested subjects include:
- Business Associations (Agency and Partnership; Corporations and Limited Liability Companies)
- Civil Procedure
- Conflict of Laws (not tested on its own, but integrated with other subjects)
- Constitutional Law
- Contracts (including Article 2 [Sales] of the Uniform Commercial Code)
- Criminal Law and Procedure
- Evidence
- Family Law (until July 2026)
- Real Property
- Torts
- Trusts and Estates (Decedents’ Estates; Trusts and Future Interests) (until July 2026)
- Article 9 (Secured Transactions) of the Uniform Commercial Code (until July 2026)
Important Update: Starting with the July 2026 bar exam, Conflict of Laws, Family Law, Trusts and Estates, and Secured Transactions will no longer be tested on the MEE.
Q3: What is the format of the MEE, and how is it administered?
The MEE consists of six essay questions, and you are allotted 30 minutes to answer each one. This gives you a total of three hours to complete the entire exam. Typically, the MEE is administered on the same day as the Multistate Performance Test (MPT).
Q4: How is the MEE graded, and what are the examiners looking for?
Each MEE essay is graded on a scale of 0 to 6, with 6 being the highest score. Examiners assess your ability to:
- Spot the Issues: Correctly identify the legal issues presented in the fact pattern.
- Know the Law: Demonstrate knowledge of the relevant legal rules and principles.
- Analyze Effectively: Apply the law to the facts in a thorough and logical manner.
- Communicate Clearly: Present your conclusions and reasoning in a clear, concise, and persuasive way.
While perfection is not expected, the examiners look for a well-organized and well-reasoned response that showcases your understanding of the law and your ability to apply it effectively.
Q5: How can I effectively prepare for the MEE?
Preparing for the MEE requires dedicated practice and a strategic approach:
- Practice Writing Essays: Write as many practice essays as possible under timed conditions. This will help you develop your writing speed, accuracy, and ability to organize your thoughts under pressure.
- Seek Feedback: Have your practice essays reviewed by professors, tutors, or fellow law students to get valuable feedback on your strengths and areas needing improvement.
- Review Model Answers: Study high-scoring MEE sample answers to understand the structure, organization, and level of detail expected in a successful essay.
- Use Study Aids: Utilize outlines, flashcards, and other study aids to refresh your memory of legal rules, concepts, and case law.
- Enroll in an MEE Prep Course: Consider enrolling in a course specifically designed to prepare you for the MEE. These courses often provide targeted instruction, practice exams, and personalized feedback.
Table: MEE Subject Frequency (2015-2023)
| Subject Area | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Civil Procedure | 15 |
| Constitutional Law | 12 |
| Contracts | 18 |
| Criminal Law and Procedure | 14 |
| Evidence | 9 |
| Real Property | 11 |
| Torts | 16 |
| Trusts | 10 |
| Decedents’ Estates | 5 |
| Future Interests | 2 |
| Business Associations | 15 |
| Secured Transactions | 8 |
| Agency and Partnership | 5 |
| Corporations and LLCs | 10 |
FAQs:
Can I use abbreviations in my MEE essays?
While some common legal abbreviations (e.g., “K” for contract) are acceptable, avoid using excessive or obscure abbreviations that could confuse the grader.
How much detail should I include in my MEE answers?
Aim for a balance of conciseness and thoroughness. Provide enough detail to demonstrate your understanding of the issues and the relevant law, but avoid unnecessary tangents or overly lengthy discussions.
What if I run out of time on an MEE essay?
If you’re running short on time, prioritize identifying and addressing the main legal issues. It’s better to provide a partial answer that demonstrates your understanding than to leave a question blank.
Should I memorize the law for the MEE?
While memorizing every detail of the law is unrealistic, having a strong grasp of fundamental legal principles and rules is essential for success on the MEE. Focus on understanding the underlying concepts and their application to different scenarios.
By understanding the MEE format, content, and grading criteria, and by implementing effective study strategies, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle this challenging exam component and showcase your legal writing skills.
