Is there court-mandated CLE?
Yes, court-mandated CLE exists in many jurisdictions. Courts may order attorneys to complete specific CLE hours as part of licensing rules, disciplinary actions, or reinstatement after suspension.
When Courts Require CLE
- Licensing requirements: State supreme courts typically mandate CLE as a condition of maintaining active law licenses.
- Disciplinary sanctions: Attorneys disciplined for misconduct may be ordered by the court to complete additional CLE, often in ethics or professionalism.
- Reinstatement: Lawyers returning from suspension or inactive status may be required to complete remedial CLE before resuming practice.
- Specialized orders: Some courts impose targeted CLE in areas like trust accounting, ethics, or technology where deficiencies were identified.
Implications for Attorneys
- Court-mandated CLE requirements are binding and non-compliance may result in suspension or denial of reinstatement.
- These requirements are in addition to the regular annual or biennial CLE obligations.
- Sprout Education provides accredited CLE programs that satisfy both standard and court-mandated requirements, ensuring attorneys remain in compliance.
Key Takeaway: Court-mandated CLE is real and can be imposed as a licensing condition, disciplinary sanction, or reinstatement requirement, making compliance essential to continued practice.
