This blog highlights crucial errors solicitors make when using online Continuing Professional Development (CPD) that can lead to compliance issues. It covers the need to understand specific jurisdictional requirements, the risks associated with record-keeping in flexible online formats, and what happens if you miss the annual deadline.
Working through your legal CPD online is a convenient and useful way to catch up on all your CPD points for the year. All you have to do is log into a webinar from the convenience of your home or office, then sit back and enjoy the show.
As easy as this may sound, there are a few common mistakes many professionals make that end up causing compliance headaches later.
Mistakes When Claiming CPD Units
One of the most common mistakes solicitors make when attending online seminars is that they overlook the specific CPD requirements checklist for their jurisdiction.
While the regulations in most territories are similar, there are a few small but crucial differences in some, particularly when it comes to the mandatory CPD content from core fields such as ethical responsibility, practice management or business skills, professional skills and substantive law.
If you don’t check that mix carefully, you could end up completing hours that don’t count or fall short of the mandatory structure.
How CPD Reporting Mistakes Happen
Online formats, such as live webinars or on-demand recordings, offer convenience, but the flexibility can work against you if you’re not vigilant.
Some solicitors assume that every hour they spend automatically qualifies for CPD credit, but in certain jurisdictions – such as New South Wales and Victoria – there are limits on how many CPD points you can claim via recorded material or private study.
Failing to keep accurate records of what you watched, when, and for how long can lead to CPD compliance errors later, especially if you are audited.
How CPD Deadlines for Solicitors Get Missed
The CPD period runs from 1 April to 31 March across all territories, so missing the deadline rarely comes down to confusion. What often happens is that busy solicitors leave their last few CPD points until the last minute and end up running out of time, leading to a range of consequences and administrative issues. Therefore, it’s best to plan your CPD points early so you’re not caught out.
Your CPD Requirements Checklist
Here are some considerations when selecting and completing CPD courses:
- Ensure you attend courses that cover the core mandatory areas for your jurisdiction.
- Confirm that the delivery format qualifies under the relevant CPD rules.
- Track your attendance or study time accurately, including date, duration and content category.
- Be aware of the CPD year period so that units are credited to the correct cycle.
If you follow this checklist, you can reduce the risk of compliance problems and make sure your professional development truly counts.
Contact Legalwise Seminars today to check which legal CPD online courses will suit your schedule and CPD needs so you stay compliant.
FAQs
What mistakes do solicitors make regarding mandatory CPD content?
They overlook the specific CPD requirements checklist for their jurisdiction, especially concerning mandatory content from core fields like ethical responsibility or practice management.
Can I complete all CPD requirements online?
In certain jurisdictions, such as New South Wales and Victoria, there are limits on how many CPD points can be claimed via recorded material or private study.
When is the legal CPD period?
The CPD period runs annually from 1 April to 31 March across all territories, aside from Tasmania which ends on 30th April annually.
