Continuing Legal Education (CLE) isn't just about meeting state bar requirements — it's a powerful tool for strengthening your team, expanding your practice areas, and staying competitive in a fast-changing legal world. Whether you're leading a small boutique firm or a large practice group, having a structured CLE plan in place can boost performance, morale, and client satisfaction.

Here’s how to build a comprehensive CLE strategy that works for your firm — not just your compliance calendar.

1. Assess Your Firm’s Learning Needs

Start with a clear understanding of where your firm is now — and where you want it to go.

Ask:

  • What practice areas are growing?

  • What new areas do we want to expand into?

  • Are there any recurring skill gaps or compliance issues?

  • What soft skills (e.g., negotiation, client communication) do team members need?

Use this assessment to identify CLE topics that go beyond basic requirements and align with your firm’s long-term strategy.

2. Review Jurisdictional Requirements

Each attorney on your team may have different CLE requirements based on their state and practice license. Ensure your plan accounts for:

  • Hourly requirements (e.g., 12 hours per year or 45 every 3 years)

  • Specific formats (e.g., live vs. on-demand, ethics requirements)

  • Specialty credits (ethics, bias, technology, etc.)

With LexVid, you can filter courses by state and credit type, making it easy to keep everyone on track.

3. Create Role-Based Learning Paths

One size doesn’t fit all. Tailor CLE plans based on roles, experience levels, and career goals. Examples:

  • New attorneys: Foundational courses in procedure, legal writing, and ethics

  • Partners: Leadership, business development, and high-level case strategy

  • Practice area specialists: Deep dives into advanced, niche topics

This helps ensure that each team member is getting relevant, engaging content — not just checking boxes.

4. Incorporate Practical Skills & Technology Training

Today’s legal world demands more than just legal knowledge. Strong CLE plans should include:

  • Legal tech literacy (AI tools, e-discovery platforms, automation)

  • Remote lawyering skills (virtual hearings, digital case management)

  • Communication, negotiation, and client relationship training

These areas give your team a competitive edge and make them more efficient and client-focused.

5. Make CLE Accessible and Engaging

CLE should fit into the workday — not interrupt it. Look for:

  • On-demand courses your team can take on their schedule

  • CLE bundles organized by practice area or credit need

  • Tracking tools to monitor progress and deadlines firm-wide

LexVid offers unlimited access options for firms, allowing firms to scale CLE access without worrying about individual course costs.

6. Track Progress & Celebrate Milestones

Set internal deadlines for credit completion and send reminders throughout the year. Consider:

  • Quarterly check-ins

  • Recognition or rewards for early completion

  • Sharing new CLE topics in team meetings or Slack channels

Making CLE part of your firm culture encourages accountability and continuous growth.

7. Review and Adjust Annually

Laws change. Business priorities shift. Talent evolves.

Revisit your CLE plan at least once a year to:

  • Add new courses

  • Retire outdated content

  • Adjust based on firm goals, feedback, and regulatory updates

An agile CLE strategy ensures your team stays current — and always improving.

Build a Smarter CLE Strategy with LexVid

LexVid makes it easy to build a CLE plan that works for your whole team. With a massive library of state-specific and national content, flexible on-demand access, and affordable firm-wide solutions, we help legal teams grow their knowledge — not just their credit hours.

Ready to design your firm’s CLE roadmap?
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