CLE Rules Change for Georgia Lawyers in 2026
- Tangela S. King
- 6 hours ago
- 2 min read
Important Changes to CLE Rules for Georgia Lawyers Effective January 1, 2026
On January 1, 2026, significant changes to the Continuing Legal Education (CLE) rules for Georgia lawyers will take effect, as ordered by the Supreme Court of Georgia. Below are the key updates that every lawyer in Georgia should be aware of:
New Biennial CLE Requirement
Transition from an annual to a biennial CLE requirement (every 2 years).
The first biennial compliance period will run from January 1, 2026, to December 31, 2027.
CLE Requirements for the Biennial Compliance Period
A total of 18 CLE hours, which must include:
3 hours of ethics
2 hours of professionalism
The elimination of the trial hours requirement for trial lawyers.
A new certification requirement upon completion of hours for the compliance period. Lawyers will need to attest on their online CLE transcript that the hours attended align with their area of practice or will benefit their practice and clients.
CLE Exemption for Long-Term Members
A CLE exemption will be available for any active member who has reached 40 years as an active member of the State Bar of Georgia, provided they have not been suspended or disbarred for violating the Georgia Rules of Professional Conduct. This exemption begins in the compliance period immediately following the lawyer’s eligibility.
What Does This Mean for Your 2025 CLE Requirement?
Active lawyers must still complete their 2025 CLE requirement of 12 CLE hours, including 1 ethics hour and 1 professionalism hour, by the deadline of March 31, 2026. Once this requirement is fulfilled, the new CLE rules will be applicable.
Questions About the Rule Change?
If you have any questions regarding the upcoming rule changes, please reach out to the State Bar of Georgia’s Continuing Legal Education Regulation Department. You can contact them at cle@gabar.org or visit their website for more information:
Stay informed and ensure compliance with these new regulations to enhance your practice and serve your clients effectively!
Comments