More than 3,500 solicitors and trainee solicitors registered for free continuous professional development (CPD) courses during the COVID-19 crisis, according to the Law Society.
The society is providing these courses, which include a Certificate in Technology Law and an Introduction to Arts, Entertainment and Media Law, free of charge to help solicitors and trainees to improve their skills during the pandemic restrictions.
Online
“As COVID-19 developed and restrictions were put in place, the Law Society acted quickly to launch a suite of resources to support solicitors and their practices in their continued professional development,” said Law Society President Michele O’Boyle.
Every year solicitors must complete 20 hours of CPD training. Previously, only 50% of this training could be completed online, but due to public health restrictions this has been adapted to allow 100% online CPD learning in 2020.
Opportunity
“Understanding that solicitors have a professional obligation to upskill each year, the Law Society saw an opportunity to facilitate this learning and make it as accessible as possible by delivering it online,” explained Ms O’Boyle.
“CPD training ensures solicitors stay up-to-date on the latest practice changes so they can respond best to their clients’ individual needs”.
“Within two weeks of launching our free online courses, over 1,700 people had registered. This number has doubled again to over 3,500,” the president said.
Skills
She said the Society was committed to offering practical and relevant courses, adding that the Certificate in Technology Law provided training on data protection, cybersecurity and cybercrime, which were now essential skills as more people worked from home.
The Introduction to Arts, Entertainment and Media Law course provides insights into broadcasting, publishing, contractual obligations and litigation in the entertainment industry, as well as copyright and image rights.
The courses are delivered completely online through the Law Society’s webcasting system. Solicitors and trainee solicitors can access the courses until Monday 10 August. More information is available on the Law Society website.