Stay Current, Competitive, and Connected — with Self-Study CLE at the CBA

Stay Current, Competitive, and Connected — with Self-Study CLE at the CBA

Your next favorite CLE might just be waiting in the CBA’s Self-Study Library. Some of our most compelling, unique programs—previously offered live—are now available on demand. Whether you're drawn to celebrity legal drama, maritime treasure hunts, historic political scandals, or literary courtroom fiction, there's something here to inform and inspire. Explore these standout self-study CLEs that help you stay current, sharpen your competitive edge, and keep you connected to the evolving legal landscape.

➡️ Blake Lively v. Justin Baldoni: Exploiting the Legal System to Win in the Court of Public Opinion
Break down high-profile celebrity complaints to uncover deeper legal themes. This CLE analyzes how stars may leverage litigation to influence public perception, including ethical concerns related to Rules of Professional Conduct 3.6 and 4.1. Explore zealous advocacy, strategic media moves, and the long-term implications for attorneys navigating high-visibility cases.

➡️ The Gold Ship Case: A Receivership on the High Seas
A legendary tale of gold, greed, and litigation that spans oceans and decades. Follow the true story of the S.S. Central America, its long-lost treasure, and the Ohio receiver who battled through seven courts and 350 motions to return justice to investors. It's part legal thriller, part courtroom drama, and packed with legal lessons from ethics to maritime law.

➡️ Watergate: The FBI, DOJ, and Legal Ethics
Revisit one of America’s most transformative legal moments through the lens of ethics and institutional reform. Presented by former Nixon White House Counsel John Dean and legal historian James Robenalt, this dynamic CLE dissects how the Watergate scandal reshaped the DOJ, gave birth to the ABA’s Model Rules of Professional Conduct, and established norms around political independence and prosecutorial integrity.

➡️ Learning Litigation Skills From Where the Crawdads Sing
This literary murder mystery becomes a rich case study in trial tactics, client management, and appellate strategy. Using courtroom scenes from the hit novel and movie, this program dives into real-world litigation skills—from motions to suppress and cross-examination to dealing with reluctant witnesses and crafting persuasive appeals.

💻 Ready to start?
Browse these CLEs and more at the CBA Self-Study CLE Portal. Choose your favorite, earn credit, and complete your CLE requirements with programs that educate and engage.

The Columbus Bar is where you belong to stay: Current. Competitive. Connected.