The Multistate Performance Test (MPT) is the skills-based portion of the bar exam that is administered in a majority of jurisdictions.
The MPT consists of two 90-minute performance tests. Some jurisdictions administer both tests, while others administer only one of the two.
Performance tests are designed to evaluate an examinee’s ability to demonstrate essential lawyering skills in realistic situations. The following lawyering skills may be tested on the MPT: Problem Solving; Legal Analysis and Reasoning; Factual Analysis; Fact Gathering; Recognition and Resolution of Ethical Dilemmas; and Communication, Organization, and Management of a Legal Task.
Each performance test requires an examinee to perform a legal task based on his or her analysis of documents contained in a “File” and/or a “Library.” Because examinees are provided with all the materials they need to perform the assigned task, the MPT is said to be a “closed-universe” exam. Rather than having to regurgitate substantive information, examinees need to at most be familiar with general concepts (particularly ethical issues) that may aide them in comprehending and organizing the materials provided.
It is important to note that National Conference of Bar Examiners writes the MPT; however, the jurisdiction administering the MPT scores it.
For more information about the MPT, visit: http://www.ncbex.org/multistate-tests/mpt/
Take a look at your jurisdiction to see if the MPT will be part of your exam.
