Florida continuing legal education isn't just a suggestion, it's a requirement. All members of the Florida State Bar must complete 30 hours of continuing legal education in Florida every three years.

If you are short on hours, you will receive a CLER affidavit three months before your three-year cycle is up. This serves as a reminder to complete your courses. If you do not complete the required hours of Florida CLE courses, the law prevents you from practicing law in Florida.

Aside from the requirement that you must attend Florida CLE classes, you can benefit by:

1. Staying up to date with current laws. Depending on the Florida CLE class you choose to take, you can learn about recent changes to the law that can help you in court.

2. Learning new skills. Some Florida continuing legal education courses teach about things other than law, such as how to practice with professionalism.

3. Networking with other lawyers. While attending Florida legal seminars, you will meet other lawyers. These lawyers may refer their clients to you if the client needs a lawyer with your specialty.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Take FL continuing legal education classes to meet your requirements

It's very important that you take enough classes to meet your requirement on time. Some lawyers prefer to take a few courses each year so that they do not have to take several classes at once. Do whatever works best for you.

I recommend: The Florida Bar offers a list of suggested live courses and online course. Online courses can be a big convenience if you cannot take the time to attend a live class. The National Law Foundation Online CLE also allows you to take courses online.

Attend legal seminars in Florida to gain CLE credit

Many people enjoy the interaction of being in a live legal seminar in Florida. This is a great way to get your credits and learn new skills.

I recommend: Lorman Education Services lists Florida legal seminars that can help you to meet your CLE requirements. If you're interested in obtaining your CLE credits while on vacation, check out the seminars offered by the American Educational Institute at popular ski resorts across the country. The Florida Bar has approved these courses, so you can learn and play at the same time.

Find Florida legal seminars that deal with ethics

All lawyers in Florida must also meet an ethics requirement every three years. This course counts towards your 30 total hours, but it is important that you take it.

I recommend: The online CLE courses at Lawline.com include several courses related to ethics. HRTutor.com offers a CLE ethics suite, which the Florida Bar's Legal Specialization and Education has accredited.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Don't wait until the last minute to take your Florida CLE courses. If you do, you may have a hard time finding courses that are convenient and affordable.