Bias CLE (also called “elimination of bias,” “diversity, equity & inclusion (DEI),” or “cultural competency” CLE) comprises courses that address recognition, reduction, and systemic mitigation of bias in the legal profession and society—often required under CLE rules in some jurisdictions. These courses cover topics such as implicit bias, discrimination, cultural competency, diversity, equity, inclusion, and fair treatment of clients and communities.
In jurisdictions with bias CLE mandates, a qualifying course must:
- focus substantively on bias, diversity, or related topics;
- be approved under the jurisdiction’s CLE rules for that specific credit category;
- meet the instructional, content, format, and reporting standards the CLE authority sets.
What jurisdictions typically require
- Course content must explicitly deal with bias issues (e.g. implicit bias, structural discrimination, access to justice, cultural competence).
- One or more hours may need to be dedicated to implicit bias / bias-reducing strategies.
- Some jurisdictions cap the number of hours allowed in this category or require it to be separate from ethics credits.
- Providers and instructors must meet the jurisdiction’s qualification standards and report the credit to the CLE tracking authority.
Examples & variation
- In California, active attorneys must complete at least 2 MCLE hours in “elimination of bias,” with one hour focusing on implicit bias and bias-reducing strategies.
- In New York, experienced attorneys must complete 1 CLE hour in “Diversity, Inclusion and Elimination of Bias” each biennial cycle.
- In New Jersey, two credit hours in “diversity, inclusion and elimination of bias” are required every two-year cycle, within the ethics and professionalism CLE credits.
- Some jurisdictions deny bias-type courses if they are promotional, not sufficiently anchored in legal dimensions, or do not satisfy the CLE board’s subject matter rules.
Compliance note
Attorneys must confirm that a CLE course is approved under their state’s bias or DEI credit category before counting it. Accredited providers, including Sprout Education, structure bias CLE offerings to satisfy state board rules for that credit category.
Key Takeaway
Bias CLE refers to CLE courses focused on recognizing, reducing, and mitigating bias in legal practice; they count only if they satisfy the jurisdiction’s specific DEI or elimination-of-bias credit rules and are approved accordingly.
