Documentation for a CLE hardship waiver typically includes proof of financial hardship, medical condition, disability, or other extraordinary circumstances. States require attorneys to demonstrate the need clearly with official supporting records.
What to Submit for a CLE Hardship Waiver
- Financial hardship: Recent tax returns, income statements, or affidavits demonstrating inability to pay CLE costs.
- Medical hardship: Doctor’s certification, hospital records, or disability documentation verifying inability to attend CLE.
- Personal or family hardship: Court orders, caregiving documentation, or sworn statements describing extraordinary obligations.
- Natural disaster or emergency: Insurance claims, government relief documents, or other official proof of disruption.
Why Documentation Matters
- State MCLE boards grant waivers only when adequate evidence supports the request.
- Supporting documentation must be current, detailed, and directly related to the hardship.
- Attorneys remain responsible for compliance unless a waiver is formally approved.
Provider Support
- Attorneys seeking a waiver must apply directly to their state CLE authority. Sprout Education, as an accredited CLE provider, offers reporting and compliance support but does not grant or approve hardship waivers.
Key Takeaway: A CLE hardship waiver requires official documentation such as tax records, medical certification, or court orders to prove extraordinary circumstances, and approval rests with the state CLE authority.
