Yes — in Alabama you can request a waiver or extension of CLE requirements or deadlines, but only in limited circumstances and at the discretion of the MCLE Commission.
The Alabama MCLE Rules permit the Commission to waive MCLE obligations for one year or more due to undue hardship or extenuating circumstances, and also allow extension of deadlines under certain conditions.
Details & Limitations
- Under Alabama MCLE Rule 2.B, “The MCLE Commission may waive the requirements of these rules for a period of one year or longer, upon a finding of undue hardship, or of extenuating circumstances beyond the control of the attorney.”
- Under Rule 8.5, the rules provide that “A request for an extension of the March 15 deadline for earning credits under an approved deficiency plan may be considered if: (1) the request is made in writing and good cause is shown … and (2) the request is accompanied by a fee of $100.00. … No extensions will be granted beyond April 1.”
- Under Regulation 7.3, the Commission may consider “late amendments” (i.e. additions to reported CLE) on a case-by-case basis beyond March 1, again contingent on showing good cause.
- The rules emphasize that successive requests for extensions or plans may not be granted unless special justification is shown.
- Procedurally, you must submit the extension or waiver request in writing with details supporting undue hardship or extenuating circumstances, and pay any required fee.
Key Takeaway
Yes — Alabama allows you to request an extension or waiver of CLE reporting or compliance obligations, but only for good cause, with documentation, subject to Commission approval, and generally with associated fees and strict limits (e.g. no extension beyond April 1 for deficiency plans).
