Important note: California notaries cannot take the lawyer`s oath virtually, they can only take the oath in person. If you currently live outside of California, you do not need to return to swear an oath to the attorney. An affidavit made in a foreign country for use in California may be made before a U.S. ambassador, minister, consul, vice consul, or consular official, or before any judge of a court bearing a seal in that foreign country. (Code Civ. Proc. § 2014.) The text of the lawyer`s oath is available below for the convenience of any person authorized to take the oath. This is for reference purposes only. Successful candidates who have met all eligibility requirements must follow the procedures outlined in the virtual oath package to be officially sworn in and then registered by the state bar. If you are unable to attend a ceremony in person, you may be required to take an oath in private with an authorized officer (see instructions below). If an affidavit is made before a judge or court of another state or foreign country, the authenticity of the judge`s signature, the existence of the court, and the fact that the judge is a member of that court must be certified by the clerk of the court under its seal. (Code Civ. Proc.
§ 2015.) Affidavits and oaths taken by military personnel are subject to California Civil Code Section 1183.5. You can take the oath at an in-person or group swearing-in ceremony hosted by your law school, local bar association or other group. The admissions office of the Public Prosecutor`s Office no longer holds admission ceremonies. If you are unable to attend a group swearing-in ceremony, you can ask an authorized officer to swear you in. Here are the California officials authorized to take the oath. During the COVID-19 pandemic, if you require a public servant to take the oath virtually, you must confirm with officers that they have the authority to do so. The lawyer`s oath is not just a ritual. It is required for admission to practice law in California. Ask? Apply in your application portal. Oath (to be taken before a notary or other authorized administrator): I (name of licensee) solemnly swear (or certify) that I will uphold the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the State of California and that I will diligently perform the duties of each attorney and legal counsel to the best of my knowledge and belief.
As a staff member of the Court, I will endeavour to conduct myself with dignity, courtesy and integrity at all times. Please note that you cannot take the oath until your certificate of admission has been accepted by the California Supreme Court and you have received the required form. Please see the instructions and FAQ on the Virtual Oath Packet website.