For busy lawyers, finding time for CLE can feel like just another obligation competing with client work, court deadlines, and firm responsibilities. Online CLE has made compliance more flexible—but flexibility alone doesn’t guarantee value.

With the right approach, online CLE can become a meaningful part of your professional development instead of a last-minute scramble. Here’s how busy lawyers can make the most of online CLE without sacrificing billable time or quality.

Choose CLE With Practical Value

Not all CLE is created equal. When time is limited, every course should earn its place on your calendar.

Look for online CLE that:

  • Focuses on real-world issues you encounter in practice

  • Offers practical takeaways you can apply immediately

  • Is taught by experienced practitioners, not just academics

Practical CLE helps you sharpen skills while fulfilling requirements—making the time you invest feel worthwhile.

Break CLE Into Manageable Sessions

One of the biggest advantages of online CLE is the ability to learn in shorter bursts. Instead of setting aside large blocks of time, integrate CLE into your existing schedule.

Many attorneys find success by:

  • Watching courses during early mornings or quieter afternoons

  • Completing short sessions between meetings or court appearances

  • Using travel or downtime productively

Small, consistent progress prevents end-of-year panic and makes CLE easier to manage.

Treat CLE Like Any Other Deadline

CLE is easier to complete when it’s planned, not postponed. Marking CLE sessions on your calendar—just like hearings or client calls—helps ensure they don’t get pushed aside.

Scheduling CLE in advance:

  • Reduces stress as deadlines approach

  • Prevents rushed, low-value course selection

  • Keeps you compliant without disruption

Planning ahead turns CLE into a routine rather than a burden.

Minimize Distractions While You Learn

Online CLE is convenient, but multitasking can limit its value. When possible, treat CLE time as focused learning time.

A few simple adjustments can help:

  • Silence email and notifications

  • Take brief notes on key points

  • Pause and rewind sections that matter to your practice

Even short periods of focused attention can significantly improve retention.

Use CLE to Strengthen Your Practice

The most effective attorneys use CLE strategically. Instead of choosing random courses, align CLE with areas where you want to grow.

Online CLE can help you:

  • Stay current on changes in your practice area

  • Improve skills like writing, advocacy, or client communication

  • Identify risks and ethical issues before they become problems

When CLE supports your professional goals, it becomes an investment—not an interruption.

Take Advantage of On-Demand Flexibility

On-demand CLE allows you to learn on your own terms. You can pause, rewind, and revisit content as needed—something in-person CLE can’t offer.

This flexibility makes it easier to:

  • Learn at your own pace

  • Review complex material

  • Fit education into unpredictable schedules

For busy lawyers, control over timing makes all the difference.

Make CLE Work for You

Online CLE was designed to simplify compliance, but it can also do much more. With thoughtful course selection and a consistent approach, CLE can enhance your skills, support your practice, and reduce stress throughout the year.

At LexVid, we believe CLE should respect your time and deliver real value—so you can focus on what matters most: serving your clients and growing your practice. Explore our packages today.