Frequently Asked Questions
What is Continuing Legal Education (CLE)?
CLE consists of professional education for attorneys that takes place after their initial admission to the bar. These programs extend the practicing attorney’s knowledge beyond what law school offers and keep them up to date with relevant changes in the law.
What is the RI Bar Association’s role in CLE?
The RI Bar is the state’s premier provider of legal education, offering over 80 programs annually. We collaborate with members of the CLE Committee and Annual Meeting Planning Committee to deliver regular seminars and a two-day Annual Meeting.
What are the CLE requirements for Rhode Island attorneys?
The RI Supreme Court requires 10 CLE credit hours per MCLE reporting year, including at least two (2) legal ethics credits. Beginning July 1, 2025, one (1) credit hour must be in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). The reporting year runs July 1 – June 30.
For complete MCLE requirements, please visit courts.ri.gov.
Are there additional requirements for newly admitted attorneys?
Yes. Newly admitted attorneys must complete the Bridge the Gap course within 90 days of being admitted to the Rhode Island Bar.
Bridge the Gap can be found on our on-demand catalog.
Does the RI Bar Association handle CLE compliance or reporting?
No. The RI Supreme Court and the MCLE Office handle all CLE requirements and credit filings. The Bar provides CLE programming to help attorneys meet those requirements.
What are the easiest ways to earn CLE credits?
That depends on your schedule and learning preferences. We offer in-person and virtual live seminars and maintain a robust on-demand video CLE catalog. Attorneys can also earn credit by teaching CLE credits. Presenters receive enhanced credit for their participation.
Where can I find CLE programs?
On our website, visit the Event Calendar for live programming or On Demand Seminars for previously recorded programs.
How can I propose a CLE program or become a speaker?
To propose a CLE for our regular programming or the Annual Meeting, complete the appropriate proposal form on our website. Proposals are reviewed by the relevant committee. Upon approval, the CLE Director will help finalize the program details.
How do I get involved with one of the Bar’s educational committees?
To join the CLE Committee or Annual Meeting Planning Committee, email NaKeisha Torres at ntorres@ribar.com or visit our committee page.
What is the RI Bar Annual Meeting?
The Annual Meeting is a two-day event held each June at the RI Convention Center in Providence. It features over 30 CLE options, legal industry exhibitors, and networking opportunities. More than 1,200 members attend annually.
How do I file my CLE credits?
Log into your account on the MCLE & Payment for Indigent Defense Services Portal at courts.ri.gov under Attorney Resources. For assistance, contact the RI MCLE office directly.
How can I access my certificate of attendance?
Log into your RI Bar account and visit your Dashboard. Scroll down to My CLE. Certificates will be available within 5 business days. For CLEs that took place before June 2025, contact the CLE Department.
Who do I contact with CLE programming questions?
- CLE Director Madeline Benner: mbenner@ribar.com
- CLE Coordinator Jules Amato: jamato@ribar.com
- General CLE Email: cle@ribar.com
- Phone: (401) 421-5740
- RI MCLE: mcleinfo@courts.ri.gov | (401) 222-4942