The Maryland Supreme Court has postponed its decision on whether to implement mandatory CLE (Continuing Legal Education) requirements for attorneys. A final ruling is now expected in spring 2026.
Proposed CLE Requirements
A work group commissioned by the court recommended that Maryland lawyers be required to complete 12 hours of CLE per year, including:
- 1 hour in ethics and professional responsibility
- 1 hour in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI)
- 1 hour in mental health and substance abuse
These proposed standards mirror CLE accreditation rules already in place in 46 other states, including nearby jurisdictions like New Jersey and Virginia.
Maryland’s CLE Status
Currently, Maryland is one of just five jurisdictions—alongside Massachusetts, Michigan, South Dakota, and Washington, D.C.—without a mandatory CLE accreditation system.
The court remains divided on the issue, having voted 4–3 in March 2024 to continue evaluating the proposal.
Stay updated on CLE accreditation changes and legal education requirements in Maryland.