Look up a lawyer, name or bar number search, need legal help? Find a lawyer referral service or free legal help.You must register with the State Bar in the Applicant Portal. Law students must register within 90 days of beginning the study of law. California does not offer bar reciprocity. If you want to practice in California you must pass the California bar and be admitted there. The California Lawyers Association is the statewide, voluntary bar association for all California lawyers. Bar Exam Admissions. I'm curious if anyone has taken both California and New York in the same year? Is it worth it to do so when the information is fresh in your head?