While most attorneys in Washington earned their licenses through traditional law school and the bar exam, there's a lesser-known path that offers a powerful alternative—the Rule 6 Law Clerk Program. As the owner of Eastside Injury Law, I earned my license through this rigorous, hands-on apprenticeship track—and I'm here to share how it works and why it matters.
What Is the Rule 6 Law Clerk Program?
Washington's Rule 6 Program, administered by the Washington State Bar Association, allows qualified candidates to become lawyers by studying under a licensed attorney and completing structured legal education while working in a law office.
It's not easier than law school—it's just different. That said, I haven't gone to law school so I don't have anything to compare it to.
Main Requirements:
- •Work full-time under a supervising attorney in an approved legal setting
- •Study assigned legal subjects each month, based on a curriculum similar to law school
- • Submit monthly reports, reading logs, and essays
- • Take periodic exams to demonstrate knowledge
- • After completing four years, participants may sit for the Washington Bar Exam
- • BTW – there are no breaks! You just keep on going. No summer break. No Christmas break. No Spring Break. You just keep on going until you complete the program. I get tired just thinking about the program again.
Who Is Eligible?
To apply for the program, you must:
- • Hold a bachelor's degree or equivalent
- • Be employed in Washington by a Bar-licensed attorney who agrees to supervise you
- • Submit an application (which is long, very long) and proposed study plan for Bar review
Note: the attorneys who supervise a Rule 6 have additional qualifications they have to meet as well. I was fortunate to have Jerry and Michele Pearson as my tutors. They were fantastic tutors and pushed me to grow into the lawyer I am today.
The program is intense and requires deep commitment and offers an alternative to earn your license.
A Path Built on Experience, Not Just Theory
The Rule 6 Program is rooted in practical learning, which means attorneys who come through this path often have years of experience working with clients, drafting legal documents, and navigating real-world cases before they even take the bar exam.
I entered this field through Rule 6 because I could not imagine not working. I truly loved working for The Pearson Law Firm (our prior name) before I started the Rule 6. I had experienced and well-respected mentors to tutor me through the program. Not everyone has this option and law school may be a better fit for you.
Why the Rule 6 Program Matters
This program offers opportunities for:
- • Legal professionals already working in the field who want to stay in the field and get real-world experience as they learn
- • Individuals with a strong desire to serve their communities
- • Law firms seeking to develop home-grown talent
It's a rare chance to learn while doing, and to become a licensed attorney through mentorship, rigorous study, and dedication.
At Eastside Injury Law, We Champion Practical Advocacy
Our roots in real-world legal work run deep. As a Rule 6 graduate, I bring firsthand experience—not just legal theory—to every case we handle.
Want to learn more about Washington's Rule 6 Program or talk about your own injury case? Contact us today for a free consultation.
Eastside Injury Law serves clients in Issaquah, Snoqualmie, North Bend, and throughout Washington State.