It's a trend in Information Technology as well, e.g. employers expect 3rd party certifications OR give in house grueling technical interviews. Unfortunately though there is no alternate certification for practicing law that can be used in lieu of the Bar Exam.
“Unfortunately though there is no alternate certification for practicing law that can be used in lieu of the Bar Exam.”
Where there is a demand, there will be a supply. When it becomes widely known that many attorneys are not competent then a certification will be developed. Attorneys will advertise that they are certified by, say, The American Attirbt Board Certification Association. It will be for Criminal or Tort or whatever specialization. They’ll still need to pass the bar exam and any other rigmarole.