Rule 8.13 Burden of Proof on Applicants

If you want to become a lawyer in Missouri, you have to prove you meet all the requirements yourself. The state does not have to prove you are unqualified. Instead, you carry the responsibility of showing that you meet every standard set out in Rule 8.

This rule also makes clear that practicing law is not something you are automatically entitled to. It is treated as a privilege that the state grants, not a right you already have. Because of this, anyone applying to join the bar must provide enough proof and information to convince the people reviewing the application that they qualify. If there are gaps or doubts, those work against the applicant, not in their favor.