Play free-association with an attorney and the mention of "BARBRI" might just elicit a groan, followed by a quip about the Uniform Commercial Code. For many law graduates, BARBRI is synonymous with intense bar exam preparation, an experience that often ends as soon as the exam is passed. However, sticking to that narrow understanding of BARBRI could be a big oversight.

Here’s a curveball: the Instant Pot’s manufacturer recently declared bankruptcy, largely because their product was too durable, limiting repeat purchases. Similar to this, BARBRI could have fallen into the trap of only serving law students pre-exam, but they’re steering well clear.

BARBRI is diversifying, aiming to support legal professionals throughout their careers, not just during their initial bar exam. Their expansion includes everything from law school support to in-house training, continuing legal education (CLE), and even preparation for working with AI in legal contexts.

If they can make the Rule Against Perpetuities memorable enough to be a lifelong joke among lawyers, why not apply that educational prowess throughout a lawyer’s career? As legal firms face the challenge of integrating AI, reducing the reliance on human labor for routine tasks, who better to train new associates than BARBRI? They’re positioning themselves as essential in a legal profession where ongoing training becomes not just beneficial but necessary.

Justin Hummel, BARBRI’s VP of Product for Professional Education, has outlined a broad strategy that includes LSAT preparation, acquiring educational resources like the West Academic library, and offering specialized training for roles such as eDiscovery analysts and paralegals. Their digital learning branch, SkillBurst, delivers this expansive educational content directly to busy legal professionals.

In today’s fast-evolving legal landscape, firms often struggle to maintain a consistent training approach, especially as AI tools begin to redefine roles and expectations. Training is no longer just another line item—it’s a strategic imperative.

As the legal industry continues to evolve with technology, the demand for a skilled, adaptable workforce only intensifies. BARBRI’s proactive transformation from a bar exam prep service to a comprehensive career-long educational resource positions them as a pivotal player in the future of legal training.

This strategic pivot could redefine how legal professionals engage with their own ongoing education and development, ensuring they remain effective and relevant in a rapidly changing professional environment.