Sibling Rivalry! TCDA Law Clerk Breaks Brother’s Record to Become Youngest to Pass California Bar Exam
In yet another history making moment in Tulare County, Tulare County District Attorney law clerk Sophia Park, 17, has become the youngest person to pass the rigorous California bar exam, breaking her brother Peter’s record set last year. Park was 17 years, 8 months old when she passed the exam on November 8, 2024, with Peter being 17 years, 11 months old when he passed the exam in 2023.
“Sophia’s amazing accomplishments speak for themselves, and we could not be prouder as an office family,” said Tulare County District Attorney Tim Ward. “It really is quite remarkable the success we have had with our law students, interns and law clerks attaining their professional dreams. The dividends for our office have been immense, and we are excited to be part of Sophia and Peter’s continued success.”
Sophia Park started law school at the age of 13 in 2020 while simultaneously attending junior high school at Oxford Academy in Cypress, CA. In 2022, she graduated high school after passing the California High School Proficiency Exam (CHSPE) and graduated from Northwestern California University School of Law in 2024. Like her brother, Park utilized a state bar rule that allows students to apply to law school through the completion of College Level Proficiency Exams (CLEPS).
At age 16, Park gained hands-on experience as a summer intern at the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office. Since 2024, Park has been employed as a law clerk for the Tulare County District Attorney’s Office. Sophia is on track to be sworn in as a licensed attorney in March of 2025 upon turning 18, when she plans to join the Tulare County District Attorney’s Office as a prosecutor like her brother.
“As a prosecutor, I will work to see justice served and ensure that victims’ voices are heard,” Sophia shared.
Media inquiries can be directed to the Office of the District Attorney, County of Tulare Communications Director Stuart Anderson at stuartanderson@tularecounty.ca.gov