A Refresher On Assessing "Good Character" In Admissions To A Profession

Regulators have a critical role in assessing character, competence, and skill of applicants before they are admitted as members of their profession. However, the question of "good character" can be challenging to tackle. Through the cases of Applicant 20 and Leontowicz, contrasting outcomes reveal the importance of demonstrating insight and remorse when addressing past misconduct. Regulatory authorities must balance the present character of applicants with the overarching mandate of public protection, often requiring rigorous and nuanced evaluations.

Character requirements are a preventative and protective regulatory tool. By ensuring that only qualified applicants are admitted to a profession, the public is protected at large and can trust that anyone admitted to the profession meets a specific threshold of qualifications, or in this case, of good character. However, "good character" sometimes remains puzzling, especially when addressing serious issues in one's