District of Columbia

TOP WASHINGTON D.C. CLE QUESTIONS

How many CLE hours are required?

There is no mandatory CLE requirement for most D.C. Bar members. However, see the information below on the Mandatory Course on the D.C. Rules of Professional Conduct and District of Columbia Practice for new admittees to the District of Columbia Bar and certain other attorneys returning from inactive status.

Why should I take CLE if I live in Washington D.C.?

Attorneys in Washington D.C. are encouraged to complete CLE courses in order to maintain their competence to practice law (See D.C. Rules of Professional Conduct, Rule 1.1, Comment [6]). Some providers of professional liability insurance also offer a discount for attorneys who complete CLE in non-mandatory states.

How many CLE hours can I take through Attorney Credits?

Attorneys may take as many CLE courses as they need to fulfill their ethical duties and maintain their competence to practice law.

Is there a CLE requirement for newly admitted attorneys?

All newly admitted attorneys are required to complete the Mandatory District of Columbia Course on the D.C. Rules of Professional Conduct and District of Columbia Practice (Mandatory Course). The Mandatory Course must be completed within 12 months after admission to the D.C. Bar. After completion of the entire course, new admittees will receive a certificate confirming their compliance with this mandatory requirement. The D.C. Bar administers the Mandatory Course on the D.C. Rules of Professional Conduct and District of Columbia Practice for new admittees to the District of Columbia Bar.

What if I have been inactive for more than five years?

D.C. attorneys who have been on inactive status with the D.C. Bar for 5 or more years must complete the Mandatory Course before returning to active status. In addition, attorneys who have resigned or have been suspended for 5 or more years (including suspension for nonpayment of dues) must also complete the Mandatory Course before returning to active status.

Does Attorney Credits verify my completion?

No. D.C. attorneys monitor their own progress and verify their own completion once the course has been completed.

Who do I contact for more information?

For more information about CLE in Washington D.C., please call the D.C. Bar at (202) 626-1315 or visit the D.C. Bar website: https://www.dcbar.org/.

You may also contact Attorney Credits by phone. For further assistance and information about the Connecticut CLE requirement, please call our Support Center at (760) 434-1885.