UT CLE | Utah State CLE

Understanding UT CLE Requirements for Attorneys: A Complete Guide

Attorneys practicing in Utah must maintain their professional competence, ethics, and awareness of legal developments through UT CLE—Utah’s Continuing Legal Education program. The UT CLE system ensures that lawyers remain knowledgeable, ethical, and capable of serving clients effectively in an evolving legal landscape. Understanding these requirements is essential for maintaining an active law license and avoiding compliance penalties.

UT CLE Requirements for Utah Attorneys
The Utah Supreme Court’s Board of Continuing Legal Education administers the UT CLE program. All active attorneys admitted to practice in Utah must complete 24 hours of UT CLE every two years, ensuring continuous professional growth and ethical awareness.
The mandatory UT CLE requirements include:
• 3 hours of Ethics or Professional Responsibility
• 1 hour of Professionalism and Civility
• 20 hours of General Credit
These requirements reflect Utah’s strong commitment to professionalism and ethical conduct. The inclusion of professionalism and civility ensures that attorneys not only possess legal knowledge but also uphold integrity, respect, and courtesy in their practice—core values of the Utah legal community.

How to Complete UT CLE Credits
Utah attorneys can fulfill their UT CLE obligations through a variety of approved learning formats. While traditional live programs provide valuable interaction and networking opportunities, online CLE options have become increasingly popular for their flexibility and accessibility.
Approved formats for completing UT CLE credits include:
• Live In-Person Seminars – Attend accredited events offering direct engagement and peer interaction.
• Live Webcasts and Virtual Programs – Participate in real-time online sessions from any location.
• On-Demand or Self-Study Courses – Complete pre-approved CLE programs at your convenience.
• Teaching or Legal Writing – Attorneys may earn UT CLE credit for teaching accredited programs or publishing legal articles.
All UT CLE courses must be approved by the Utah Board of Continuing Legal Education. Attorneys are encouraged to verify that programs are accredited before registering. Utah also allows attorneys to carry forward up to 12 excess hours, including 2 ethics credits, into the next compliance cycle—providing flexibility for those who exceed the minimum requirements.

UT CLE Reporting and Deadlines
The UT CLE compliance period is biennial, running from July 1 through June 30 of every two-year cycle. Attorneys must complete their required UT CLE credits by the end of the reporting period and certify compliance by July 31.
Many accredited providers report attendance directly to the Utah CLE Board, but attorneys are ultimately responsible for confirming that all credits are properly recorded in their official transcript. Failure to complete or accurately report UT CLE requirements may result in late fees, compliance audits, or administrative suspension. Attorneys should retain documentation of course completion for at least three years in case of verification.

Value of UT CLE
Beyond meeting a regulatory obligation, UT CLE is a key component of professional development and lifelong learning for Utah attorneys. It enables lawyers to stay informed about evolving legislation, refine their practice skills, and strengthen their ethical awareness.
Common UT CLE topics include:
• Legislative updates and recent case law
• Trial advocacy and dispute resolution
• Ethics, professionalism, and civility in practice
• Law office technology and cybersecurity
• Diversity, inclusion, and attorney wellness
Ethics and professionalism courses within the UT CLE framework reinforce Utah’s high standards of integrity and accountability. These programs help attorneys navigate ethical dilemmas, improve client communication, and maintain the trust essential to the attorney-client relationship.

Conclusion | UT CLE
In conclusion, UT CLE is more than just a professional requirement—it represents a continuous commitment to ethical excellence, legal competence, and public trust. By completing accredited courses, managing credits diligently, and meeting all reporting deadlines, Utah attorneys can maintain good standing with the Utah Supreme Court while enhancing their professional skills.
Through UT CLE, attorneys demonstrate their dedication to lifelong learning, integrity, and service to clients and the community. This ongoing engagement helps ensure that Utah’s legal profession remains strong, ethical, and respected statewide.

For the latest official UT CLE details, forms, and FAQs, attorneys should visit the Utah State Unified Court System’s CLE Board website.