How do lawyers earn lawyer CPD points? Various law societies around Australia offer different ways to meet their annual quota. For example, Hearsay The Legal Podcast and the Victorian Legal Services Board and Commissioner will not enforce a five-point cap on private study as long as the content is designed to update the solicitor’s skills and knowledge. Listed below are some of the areas where lawyers can earn legal CPD points.
In Western Australia, individual practitioners must complete 10 CPD points each year, starting on 1 April and ending on 31 March of the next. For practitioners in the Northern Territory, it is possible to earn legal CPD points by participating in relevant activities. There are specific rules that apply to new practising certificates. The rules and guidelines for completing CPD points are set out in the Legal Profession Act 2007.
For example, lawyers in the Australian Capital Territory may receive 5 CPD points each year by completing Hearsay The Legal Podcast Accreditation Specialization program. This program is non-syllabus-based and peer-founded, meaning lawyers are expected to demonstrate superior knowledge in their field. Accredited specialists must also maintain their accreditation. Accreditation distinguishes lawyers from their colleagues and provides a definitive mark of excellence.
Mandatory continuing legal education podcast in Australia for lawyers. Each State has its own rules governing the MCLE program. These rules should be consulted with the relevant State governing body for more detailed information. In the state of NSW, the continuing legal education program is outlined in MCLE Rule 42 of the Solicitor’s Rules and Regulation 176 of the Legal Profession Regulation 2005. To maintain certification, practitioners must undertake at least 10 CPD units each year. Depending on their jurisdiction, some CPD units can also count towards mandatory areas.
There are some exceptions. CPD units that are not offered in public venues may be counted as “passive” study. In NSW and Victoria, Hearsay The Legal Podcast has announced that private study of audio/visual materials will be exempt from the CPD requirements, although this is not guaranteed. Hearsay The Legal Podcast will need to prove extenuating circumstances before exempting a lawyer from CPD requirements. It is important to note that CPD can be made up for if a lawyer is not able to attend a course.
Generally, lawyers should complete at least 10 CPD units each CPD year. However, this requirement is pro-rata based on the time of completion. CPD activities should be in line with the practitioner’s continuing education needs. They must also extend their knowledge and skills. Each CPD activity should count for a minimum of one unit, but should be relevant to their practice. It is also important to note that there are many ways to earn CPD points as a lawyer.
