Bar Exam Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield Bar Exam facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. What is the consequence of a lawyer violating ethical rules? → The lawyer may face suspension or disbarment.
2. A constructive trust is imposed as a remedial device to: → Disgorge property wrongfully obtained by the defendant and prevent unjust enrichment
3. What is the legal significance of documentary evidence? → It is a form of physical evidence that proves facts.
4. A revocable living trust typically becomes irrevocable upon: → The settlor's death as specified in the trust instrument
5. What is 'unauthorized practice of law'? → Any individual practicing law without a valid license.
6. Under MRPC 1.7, which of the following creates a non-waivable conflict of interest that the lawyer cannot represent both clients despite informed consent? → Asserting a claim by one client against another current client in the same litigation
7. Under the doctrine of ademption by extinction, if a testator specifically bequeaths her car to her brother but sells the car before death, the brother: → Receives nothing because the specific bequest is adeemed
8. What type of business ownership involves a single individual who owns and operates the business, assuming all responsibilities and liabilities? → Sole Proprietorship
9. Which Constitutional amendment protects individuals from being forced to incriminate themselves? → Fifth Amendment.
10. Specific performance is available as a remedy for breach of contract primarily when: → The subject matter of the contract is unique and money damages are inadequate
11. Which covenant in a general warranty deed promises that the grantor has good title and the right to convey the property? → Covenant of Seisin
12. A state court generally CANNOT refuse to enforce a valid sister-state judgment on the ground that: → The underlying cause of action would not be recognized in the forum state
13. Under the First Restatement, the validity of a contract is determined by the law of: → The place where the contract was made (lex loci contractus)
14. Punitive damages in a tort action are generally available when the defendant: → Acted with malice, fraud, oppression, or conscious disregard of the plaintiff's rights
15. What type of damages are intended to punish the defendant for particularly egregious conduct and deter similar behavior in the future? → Punitive Damages
16. Consequential (special) damages in a contract action are recoverable under the rule of Hadley v. Baxendale only if they were: → Foreseeable as a probable result of breach at the time the contract was formed
17. For a court to grant a permanent injunction, a plaintiff must typically show all of the following EXCEPT: → That the defendant acted with fraudulent intent throughout the dispute
18. Which ethical theory focuses on the consequences of actions and promotes the greatest overall happiness or utility for the majority? → Utilitarianism
19. What is the 'duty of loyalty' rule in professional ethics? → Lawyers must avoid conflicts of interest and act in the best interest of their clients.
20. In a quantum meruit (quasi-contract) claim, the plaintiff may recover: → The reasonable value of the services or benefits actually conferred on the defendant
21. What term refers to the legal process through which property is transferred from a decedent to their heirs or beneficiaries? → Probate
22. What is an example of a condition precedent in a contract? → A condition that must be met before the contract becomes effective.
23. In a general warranty deed, which covenant is breached at the time of delivery if the grantor does not have the title she purports to convey? → Covenant of seisin
24. What is the best definition of direct evidence? → Evidence that directly proves a fact.
25. Under traditional conflict of laws principles, a decedent's personal property (movables) passes at death according to: → The law of the decedent's domicile at the time of death
26. In a contract, what is the legal term for the party who receives a promise or consideration from the other party? → Offeree
27. What is the legal principle that holds a person liable for the actions of their employees or agents when they are acting within the scope of their employment? → Respondeat Superior
28. What type of property ownership involves the right of survivorship, where the interest of a deceased owner automatically passes to the remaining owners? → Joint Tenancy
29. What is the Statute of Frauds? → A law requiring certain contracts to be written to be enforceable.
30. What is the role of a family court in child support matters? → To determine the amount of financial support the child needs.