10 Ways to Complete your CLE’s from your Office

 

For many attorneys, conferences are a major hiccup in the fast paced legal profession. I have compiled the top 10 ways to get your CLE Credits without attending a conference (and the state they are approved in).

By Kristin Davidson, CLE Companion

1. TAKE ONLINE COURSES

Stating the obvious here, I know. With so many options like On-Demand and Live Stream Courses available to take online, you can view them back to back or once a day for a few weeks to knock your CLE out in a flash.

2. PRESENT A CLE COURSE

Yes, you can do this without leaving your desk. And you will gain the prestige of being regarded as an expert in you field, plus promotional options for yourself and your firm. And most states will give you credit for the time you put into creating the course… Up to 7.5 hours! (CLE Companion is always looking for dynamic experts to present). Check out the opportunity here.

3. SELF STUDY

The meaning of the term “self-study” varies from state to state but generally speaking, reading a great Law book or listening to an expansive legal presenter talk on a subject you are passionate about will get your self-study credit. On-Demand activities also count! Credits are typically capped and vary by state so check with your local bar.

4. GO PRO BONO

Giving away your services seems like a feel-good thing to do, but you can also cash in by way of CLE credits in the process. States that obey this stipulation generally give 1 credit hours per 5 hours of billable Pro Bono work.

5. IN-HOUSE TRAINING

Think about all of the in-house seminar you have had on various topics. Get these approved for CLE and your entire firm has a leg up on their deadline. Some states stipulate that these must be open to the public.

6. WRITE AN ARTICLE

Articles written for lawyers published in Law journal or periodical are up for CLE Credit. The amount of credit varies wildly on this one,

from as low as hour for hour writing to up to 20 hours. Reach out to get published on CLE Companion.

7. TAKE A MARKETING COURSE

Yes, this is considered for CLE Credit!! Oregon bar specifies: Credit may be claimed for courses devoted to business development and marketing that are specifically tailored to the delivery or marketing of legal services and focus on the use of the discussed techniques and strategies in law practice.

8. BE A MENTOR

Mentorship is a great way to earn CLE credits while helping those in your local professional community. Typically, available in collaboration with your states Newly Admitted Attorney program, bar associations are always looking for new mentors.

9. FURTHER YOUR EDUCATION

Credit can be given for both taking a Law School course and Teaching one! Credit varies on this one as well, from 2-6x the number of credits you received by taking the course, and instructions also receive prep credits.

10. BE OF SERVICE

Ok, you may or may not have to leave your desk for this one. Volunteering your time as a bar association member on certain committees and boards will not only get you in good graces of the bar, it will also further your CLE credits!

Need CLE Credits? Get them right here on CLE Companion!

About the Author: Kristin Davidson is the Executive Director of CLE Companion, an entirely virtual platform for completing CLE Credits that is taking the Legal Education industry by storm. Touted as the easiest, most cost-effective and complete resource for Online CLE, see for yourself what the buzz is all about here.