Like the gift that keeps on giving, the ISBA's menu of continuing legal education offerings is a continuing benefit for members. We call it the “ISBA Member Advantage.”

The ISBA is an accredited MCLE provider, not just for live seminars and video replays, but also for programs delivered directly to a member in electronic format.

“Our commitment to ISBA members is that we will offer timely, high quality live presentations at an affordable cost,” said Paul A. Osborn of Sterling, incoming chair of the Committee on Continuing Legal Education.

“Coupled with a growing catalog of archived material that can be reviewed for MCLE credit at each member's convenience, we are a one-stop resource for lawyers seeking to maintain or improve their proficiencies while meeting their obligations under Supreme Court rules.”

Under rules administered by the MCLE board of the Illinois Supreme Court, lawyers can meet minimum continuing legal education requirements in a number of ways, not limited to attendance at live seminars.

Coursework alternatives include video replays of seminars, courses delivered on CD-ROM (audio) or DVD (video) along with accompanying handout materials, and online courses.

CLE seminars must provide an opportunity for “interactivity” in order to qualify for MCLE credit. This is accomplished through making speakers available, either in person or by providing contact information, to answer additional questions.

In addition to coursework, ISBA members can earn MCLE credit through attendance at bar association meetings at which substantive law, matters of practice and professionalism are presented. Presenters at Law Ed programs and writers/editors of section newsletters also earn reportable credit.

“Bar membership increases a lawyer's opportunities to engage in meaningful, career-enhancing CLE,” Osborn said. “Law Ed programs truly are the effective, convenient and affordable option for most Illinois lawyers.”

The Committee on Continuing Legal Education oversees Law Ed programming, working with ISBA section councils and committees to prepare practical, timely seminars. During the 2006-07 academic year, 60 program titles have been presented at live seminars in locations around the state.