Attorneys constantly look for cost-saving ways to obtain CLE credits. Did you know that, since 2009, Minnesota attorneys have been eligible to receive CLE credit for their pro bono service? CLE Rule 6C sets the requirements for obtaining CLE credit and the Minnesota Board of CLE provides information and guidance on its website at www.cle.mn.gov/lawyers/pro-bono-representation-2/. In order to qualify, the pro bono service must be performed in conjunction with a referral from one of the legal aid programs funded by the Minnesota Supreme Court’s Legal Services Advisory Committee (LSAC) or an approved program as determined by LSAC.
For every six hours of service, an attorney may receive one hour of CLE credit, up to a maximum of six CLE credit hours in a reporting cycle. To claim the credit, attorneys must complete and submit a certification form available on the CLE board website and linked off of the OASIS CLE reporting page. The CLE board staff will review the certification form and award credit. This is an excellent way to fulfill your CLE credit requirement and help eliminate the cost barrier that prevents many Minnesotans from obtaining legal advice and representation. For more information on CLE credit for pro bono or to connect with one of the many pro bono opportunities offered by Minnesota’s civil legal aid organizations, please contact MSBA Public Service Director Steve Marchese at smarchese@mnbars.org or 612-278-6308.