Hofstra University: NY Bar Exam Candidate Sues Over Delayed Medical Care

• A July 2025 New York bar exam candidate suffered a brain injury after being delayed medical care during the exam.
• The lawsuit against Hofstra University alleges that emergency responders were not immediately summoned and CPR was not promptly administered.
• The incident highlights the importance of prompt medical attention in emergency situations, particularly for individuals under stress or experiencing health issues.
• Lawyers advising clients preparing for the New York bar exam should be aware of this potential precedent and advise their clients to seek immediate medical attention if they experience any health issues during the exam.

The consequences were devastating

A July 2025 New York bar exam candidate, Mary Jane Jung, suffered a brain injury after slumping out of her chair and losing consciousness during the exam. According to the lawsuit filed in state supreme court in Nassau County, Jung began gasping for air and turned blue shortly before the lunch break at Hofstra University's David S. Mack Sports and Exhibition Complex. Despite struggling to breathe and crying out, proctors ordered hundreds of other test-takers to continue with the exam, delaying emergency responders from treating Jung until after the exam ended. This delay in medical attention resulted in critical minutes being lost as Jung suffered permanent and life-altering injuries.

The lawsuit against Hofstra University raises questions about the university's responsibility to ensure the safety of students during exams. As a host institution for the New York bar exam, Hofstra is expected to provide a safe and secure environment for test-takers. The suit alleges that emergency medical services were not immediately summoned, and CPR was not promptly administered, which may have contributed to Jung's injuries. This incident highlights the importance of prompt medical attention in emergency situations, particularly when individuals are under stress or experiencing health issues.

The lawsuit filed by Mary Jane Jung against Hofstra University has significant implications for lawyers advising clients preparing for the New York bar exam. The incident serves as a reminder that test-takers should be aware of their surroundings and take immediate action if they experience any health issues during the exam. Lawyers should also be aware of this potential precedent and advise their clients to seek medical attention promptly in case of an emergency. This incident underscores the need for institutions hosting exams to have clear protocols in place for responding to medical emergencies, ensuring that students receive timely and adequate care.

Lawyers advising clients preparing for the New York bar exam should be aware of this potential precedent and ensure that their clients know how to seek immediate medical attention if they experience any health issues during the exam.

Source: Original reporting via NJ.com and Newsday