The New York bar exam is the second toughest in the nation (California being #1)(http://www.sfbsearch.com/content.cfm/ID/20004). The LSAT is simply a screening tool for entry into most law schools, with the bar exam being the final hurdle that counts.

Since Ms. Kennedy had to pass the NY Bar Exam to get licensed there, she earned her "Esq." regardless. Whatever help may have been available along the way, one sits alone when taking the bar exam and under highly monitored conditions.