The term "bar" in "bar association" does not stand for an acronym; rather, it originates from a physical feature in courtrooms. Historically, a wooden railing or bar separated the area where judges, lawyers, and parties conducted legal business from the spectators' gallery. This barrier symbolized the boundary between legal professionals and the public
. Being "admitted to the bar" means a lawyer has passed the required examination (the bar exam) and is authorized to practice law, effectively crossing the symbolic bar in the courtroom
. The "bar association" is thus a professional organization or body of licensed attorneys who have passed this exam and are entitled to practice law within a jurisdiction
. The idea that "bar" stands for "British Accredited Registry" is a myth with no factual basis
. In summary:
- "Bar" refers to the courtroom railing dividing legal professionals from the public.
- "Bar association" is the group of lawyers admitted to practice law.
- Passing the "bar exam" allows an individual to be admitted to this group and practice law legally
