The disadvantage is that the vast majority of states no longer let anyone just sign up and take the bar, you need a degree, or at least some sort of sponsorship

The disadvantage is that the vast majority of states no longer let anyone just sign up and take the bar, you need a degree, or at least some sort of sponsorship to even register to take the exam. The days of just taking the bar “Catch me if you can” style are long since past. Source: Years ago I looked into “just taking the bar” only to come across ridiculous hoops and requirements.