Raising the Bar

“Raising the Bar” is more than a mentorship program. It is an opportunity to support and guide the next generation of legal professionals. Created by Senior Deputy District Attorney Amber Lee, the program launched in 2025, as a partnership between the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office and the Office of the Public Defender. The program has expanded and will be administered by the Ventura County Bar Association to connect practicing attorneys from all areas with college and law school students who are interested in pursuing careers in law. Through mentorship, students receive guidance in areas such as career development, law school admissions, resume building, bar exam preparation, networking, and general advice about the legal profession. At the same time, attorneys have the chance to give back in a meaningful and rewarding way. 

For many students, the path to becoming a lawyer can feel intimidating. College students who are considering law school often have questions about applications, choosing the right schools, preparing for the LSAT, and understanding what a legal career actually looks like. Law school students face a different set of challenges, including finding internships, building professional connections, preparing for interviews, and eventually studying for the bar exam. Without someone to turn to for advice, the process can feel stressful and uncertain. “Raising the Bar” helps fill that gap by connecting students with attorneys who have already gone through these experiences and can offer practical insight and encouragement. 

One of the most valuable parts of the program is the focus on career development. Students are able to learn directly from attorneys working in different areas of law, including criminal law, immigration law, family law, public interest, and many others. Mentors can talk honestly about their experiences, explain the realities of the profession, and help students better understand which legal paths may fit their interests and goals. These conversations can make a major difference for students who are still trying to figure out where they want to go professionally. 

For college students, the program can provide important support during the law school admissions process. Applying to law school can be overwhelming, especially for first-generation students or those who may not already have professional connections in the legal field. Mentors can help students review personal statements, prepare application materials, and offer advice on standing out during interviews. Having someone experienced to guide them through the process often gives students more confidence in their abilities. 

For law school students, mentorship can be especially helpful as they begin preparing for their careers after graduation. Attorneys can review resumes, conduct mock interviews, and provide networking advice that students may not receive in a classroom setting. Learning how to present themselves professionally and build relationships within the legal community can have a lasting impact on their future opportunities. 

Another important part of “Raising the Bar” is support during bar exam preparation. The bar exam is one of the most difficult and exhausting parts of becoming an attorney. Mentors who have already been through the process can share study strategies, offer reassurance, and help students stay motivated during a stressful time. Sometimes, hearing advice from someone who successfully passed the exam can make the challenge feel more manageable. 

While students will benefit greatly from the program, the experience is equally rewarding for the attorneys who volunteer as mentors. Many attorneys remember the people who helped guide them early in their own careers. Mentorship allows them to pass that support on to the next generation. It gives attorneys the chance to share their experiences, help students avoid common mistakes, and play a role in someone’s professional growth. 

Mentors often benefit personally as well. Working with students can bring a fresh perspective and remind attorneys why they chose the legal profession in the first place. Students bring energy, curiosity, and new ideas that can make the experience meaningful for mentors too. In many cases, attorneys also strengthen their own leadership and communication skills through mentorship. 

Beyond individual relationships, “Raising the Bar” helps build a stronger and more connected legal community. The program creates opportunities for students from different backgrounds to access guidance, resources, and professional support that they may not otherwise have. In doing so, it encourages diversity, inclusion, and greater access within the legal profession. 

The program will pair attorneys with students for a six month period, from October to April. The mentors and mentees will have the freedom to dictate the terms of their partnership in order to best serve the mentee.  

At its core, “Raising the Bar” is about connection, growth, and opportunity. Students gain valuable support and direction as they work toward careers in law, while attorneys have the chance to make a lasting impact on future legal professionals. The program benefits everyone involved and helps strengthen the future of the legal field as a whole. Volunteer to help raise the next generation of the bar!