What is the purpose of a continuing legal education (CLE) program?

The purpose of a continuing legal education (CLE) program is to extend education for legal professionals beyond school. CLE programs are designed to ensure that attorneys stay current with the latest developments in the law, legal practices, and technologies impacting the legal field. These programs provide ongoing training and education that helps practitioners deepen their legal knowledge and enhance their skills throughout their careers.

Considering other choices, while reviewing legal cases and precedents is important, it is a specific activity that could be part of CLE but does not encompass the broader purpose of the entire program. Providing legal advice to clients is an essential function of legal practice but is not the aim of CLE, which focuses on the professional development of lawyers rather than client service. Lastly, the certification process for new legal practitioners occurs before entering the profession, contrasting with CLE, which is aimed at those already practicing law.