Many aspiring lawyers wonder if they can take the California Bar Exam without actually going to law school. The short answer is yes, they can.California is most renowned for its "reading the law" bar exam apprenticeship program. This method entails learning from a practicing attorney or judge. Complete the required pre-legal education. Yes. California is one of four U.S. states that will allow you to sit for a bar exam without a law degree. If you are practicing law without a license, you are violating the California State Bar Act and could be forced to pay a fine or spend time in jail. LawHelp Interactive is a website that helps you fill out legal documents for free. The Daily Journal has more journalists covering the California legal profession than any other publication. Com covers local news from Pomona to Ontario including, California news, sports, things to do, and business in the Inland Empire.