Minnesota CLE - Trial Skills Courses

This is a listing of Trial Skills CLE Courses for Minnesota. Please make your selection below of Minnesota CLE courses. Click "Add To Cart" to purchase Individual CLE Courses. For more information about a particular CLE course, click on the "More Info" link. Click the "Preview" button to view a short preview of the course.

Minnesota CLE
Accreditation Info

Courses purchased through UnitedCLE.com are provided and fully accredited by The National Academy of Continuing Legal Education, an approved sponsor (10551) of CLE by the Minnesota Board of Continuing Legal Education . To view our full accreditation details please .

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Medical Malpractice Litigation: Plaintiff, Defense & Expert Perspectives

This CLE program presents a practical examination of medical malpractice litigation from both plaintiff and defense viewpoints, emphasizing the key components involved in developing, evaluating, and challenging claims. The course explores effective methods for obtaining and reviewing medical records, including electronically stored information (ESI) and EMR audit data, to identify important details, metadata, and facts that can shape case strategy. The program also addresses cur... More Info

$55

1.5General Credits
Litigating Federal Civil Rights Claims Against Law Enforcement: Excessive Force and Beyond

This CLE program offers an in-depth exploration of federal civil rights actions brought against law enforcement officers for alleged excessive force and related constitutional violations. Participants will gain a clear understanding of the legal theories that drive these cases, the defenses most often asserted—including immunity doctrines—and the procedural and strategic considerations that can shape outcomes. Through a practical, litigation-focused lens, the course will equip both plain... More Info

$55

2General Credits
From Screen to Courtroom: Practical Trial Lessons for Litigators from Film

This CLE program takes a practical, skills-oriented approach to trial advocacy by analyzing selected film scenes that depict litigation in action. Drawing from a curated set of movies, the session uses dramatized portrayals to surface real-world lessons on strategy, courtroom dynamics, and professional judgment. Participants will explore multiple subject areas through these examples, assessing what the films get right—and where they diverge from actual practice. Designed to be both inst... More Info

$55

1.5General Credits
So You Think You Want to Be a Criminal Defense Lawyer? A Practical Guide from First Meeting to Final Plea

This CLE program provides a practical roadmap of a criminal case through the lens of defense counsel, following the progression of a matter from the initial client meeting through plea discussions and critical case deadlines. Attendees will examine major stages of representation, including arraignments and bail issues, discovery practice, speedy trial considerations, affirmative defenses, motion practice, scheduling concerns, and strategic case management decisions. Geared toward newer... More Info

$55

2General Credits
Strategic Pretrial Litigation in Criminal Defense

Pretrial practice in criminal cases is often narrower in scope than in civil litigation, but it remains a critical component of an effective defense strategy. When used deliberately, pretrial motions can do far more than resolve discrete legal issues—they can shape the trajectory of a case from its earliest stages. This CLE program examines how criminal defense attorneys can approach pretrial litigation with greater strategic intent. It highlights the value of motion practice beyond sim... More Info

$29

1General Credit
"So, Do I Have to Go to Jail?” Ethical Considerations for Prosecutors and Defense Counsel at Sentencing

One of the most consequential questions in any criminal case is simple: “So, do I have to go to jail?” For defense counsel, this question often comes from a client confronting the possibility of incarceration. For prosecutors, it reflects the gravity of decisions surrounding sentencing recommendations and the exercise of discretion. This program examines the ethical considerations and professional responsibilities that arise when attorneys address the prospect of incarceration. The cour... More Info

$34

1Ethics Credit
The PI Lien Playbook: Legal, Ethical, and Practical Strategies

This CLE program examines the intricate legal and ethical landscape governing personal injury lien resolution. Participants will gain a practical understanding of how to identify and analyze a wide range of lien interests, including medical providers, government programs such as Medicare and Medicaid, and other third-party claimants. The course emphasizes strategic approaches to lien negotiation and reduction, along with best practices for ensuring compliance with applicable laws and professio... More Info

$65

2Total Credits

1 Ethics
Modern Criminal Law Practice: Updates and Evidentiary Challenges

This CLE program offers a comparative, jurisdiction-by-jurisdiction examination of how recent criminal law reforms are reshaping practice in Pennsylvania, New York, Texas, and California. The course focuses on legislative and judicial developments that materially affect how cases are charged, litigated, and resolved, including changes to substantive offenses, sentencing and resentencing authority, bail and pretrial release standards, probation and diversion programs, and victims’ rights statut... More Info

$29

1General Credit
Your Client’s Story: Connecting with the Jury from Opening to Closing

This CLE program examines the strategic role of opening statements and closing arguments in jury trials. These moments provide counsel with a critical opportunity to humanize the client, frame the facts, and reinforce a compelling theory of the case. Given the unique dynamics of every trial, lawyers often struggle to find consistency and confidence in crafting effective openings and closings. This course will outline practical principles and proven techniques to help attorneys present... More Info

$29

1General Credit
The Evolution and Devolution of Civility

This CLE program takes a critical look at the changing expectations of professional conduct within the legal community and the growing concern over declining civility in legal practice. As disputes have become more aggressive and interactions with opposing counsel, courts, and clients increasingly strained, judges have relied more heavily on ethical rules and disciplinary bodies to police attorney behavior. The outcomes of these efforts—particularly in large, high-volume jurisdictions—have bee... More Info

$34

1Ethics Credit
Cracking the Code: An Introduction to Federal Court Procedure

This CLE program offers a practical introduction to navigating civil litigation in the federal courts, with a focus on the procedural frameworks that govern cases from filing through motion practice. Participants will examine the foundations of federal jurisdiction, including subject matter and personal jurisdiction, along with an overview of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure and relevant local rules. The course addresses how federal cases are commenced, managed, and challenged, and p... More Info

$29

1General Credit
Shaping Deposition Testimony to Win Your Case

A well-executed deposition is often a critical turning point in litigation. This CLE program offers a hands-on look at how lawyers can guide testimony with purpose, reinforce key legal theories, and steer clear of common missteps that weaken the record. Attendees will develop practical skills to: Confidently prepare lay and expert witnesses for accurate, persuasive statements under oath Conduct depositions that frame the facts on favorable terms and limit room for backtracking Buil... More Info

$55

1.5General Credits
Using Electronic Medical Records Evidence at Trial

Attorneys handling healthcare and tort litigation must increasingly grapple with the complexities of electronic medical data. This CLE program provides a detailed examination of the legal contours surrounding electronically stored health information, including how it is defined under the law and the evidentiary hurdles involved in introducing it at trial. The session will delve into the mechanics of discovery as a means of laying proper foundation, and will address key evidentiary rule... More Info

$29

1General Credit
Direct Examination of Expert Witnesses at Trial

Expert witnesses occupy a unique position in the courtroom—they are permitted to offer opinions based on hearsay, unfamiliar facts, and technical knowledge beyond the grasp of the average juror. But with that leeway comes risk: improperly presented expert testimony can confuse more than clarify, and missteps in foundation or qualification can render it inadmissible. This CLE course will guide attorneys through the practical and procedural aspects of leveraging expert testimony effective... More Info

$55

1.5General Credits
What Issues Should Attorneys Be Looking For In a DUI Case

DUI cases often hinge on details that can determine the outcome, making issue-spotting an essential skill for defense attorneys. This CLE program will explore the range of challenges and defenses that arise in DUI litigation, from constitutional arguments and evidentiary questions to the reliability of field sobriety tests and chemical testing. Participants will learn how to assess law enforcement conduct, uncover weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and apply defense strategies that... More Info

$29

1General Credit
Design Patents: Key Considerations for Prosecution and Enforcement

In an era where a product’s visual appeal can drive consumer preference as much as its functionality, understanding how to safeguard that appeal is critical. This CLE course, led by Board Certified Intellectual Property Attorneys Greg Popowitz and Peter Koziol, explores the pivotal role of design patents in protecting the aesthetic aspects of inventions. With application filings surging in recent years, the session will cover the essential elements for obtaining a design patent, strate... More Info

$55

1.5General Credits
Medical Issues and Damages in Personal Injury Claims

Accidental injuries can be complex, and effectively handling these cases requires both medical insight and legal strategy. This CLE course equips attorneys with the knowledge to assess injuries, work with medical professionals, and communicate medical issues persuasively. Participants will first explore the medical foundations of accidental injuries—how they happen, their typical progressions, and key factors in determining severity. Next, the course will cover strategies for engaging w... More Info

$55

2General Credits
Selective Ethics in Litigation from the Plaintiff's Perspective

Attorneys handling litigated matters must navigate a complex web of ethical rules while vigorously representing their clients. This CLE course will provide a comprehensive examination of the ethical limitations and responsibilities that shape legal advocacy, ensuring that counsel remains within professional and regulatory boundaries. Our panel of experts will share their perspectives on best practices for ethical decision-making, offering practical strategies to help attorneys avoid uni... More Info

$65

1.5Ethics Credits
Artificial Intelligence as Evidence: Discoverability, Use, Admissibility of Algorithmic & Digital Evidence

Discussions about artificial intelligence in the legal field often focus on its potential to streamline workflows and boost efficiency. However, AI can also be a critical factor in litigation—not as a tool, but as evidence. This CLE program examines how artificial intelligence fits into the evidentiary landscape of a trial. The course breaks down the legal definitions of AI and the kinds of materials that may qualify as AI-generated evidence. Attendees will learn how to identify AI in t... More Info

$55

1.5General Credits
Tax Law and Personal Injury Litigation: Representing Victims of Sexual Abuse

This CLE program is tailored for attorneys handling personal injury cases, with a particular emphasis on advocating for survivors of sexual abuse. It provides an in-depth examination of the tax implications surrounding settlements and judgments in tort litigation, focusing on the legal framework that classifies compensation for personal physical injuries as non-taxable. The course explores the historical evolution of this tax rule and its specific relevance to sexual abuse cases. Addit... More Info

$55

1.5General Credits
Federal Torts Claims Act: Personal Injury Lawsuit from Intake through Trial

A client contacts you after slipping and falling at a TSA checkpoint, resulting in a knee injury that required surgery. How do you proceed? This CLE course will guide you through every stage of handling a slip and fall lawsuit under the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA), from client intake to trial, in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania and the Third Circuit. The presenter will help you identify which cases to accept and which to decline, emphasizing the many potential challenges inhere... More Info

$29

1General Credit
Cross-Examination of Experts in Tort Cases: The Basics Plus

This CLE course offers an in-depth exploration of the core strategies for cross-examining defense experts in tort cases, with a focus on personal injury and insurance bad faith litigation. Participants will learn to identify key research sources for uncovering effective cross-examination opportunities, prepare experts during depositions for impactful cross-examinations, and develop techniques to highlight critical points that undermine expert testimony. Designed for practitione... More Info

$55

1.5General Credits
Wiretaps 101: Defending Your Client in Wiretap Cases

Are you new to wiretaps or unfamiliar with how they work in legal cases? This CLE course provides a comprehensive introduction to wiretaps and equips you with the tools to effectively defend your client when a wiretap is involved. Explore the history of wiretaps and the evolution of modern caselaw to gain a deeper understanding of how to challenge their use in court. From the Government’s application process to law enforcement’s execution of a wiretap, this course covers the essential... More Info

$55

2General Credits
How to Prepare and Try a Car Accident Case in Front of a Jury

This CLE course is designed to equip attorneys with limited trial experience with the skills needed to prepare a case for trial and effectively present it to a jury. Participants will explore key aspects of trial preparation, from the initial stages of the case through closing arguments. The course will focus on translating thorough preparation into clear and persuasive communication of client claims to a jury. By the end of the program, attendees will have a foundational understanding... More Info

$29

1General Credit
Clarity Above All Things: Writing Briefs That Can Actually Be Understood

This CLE course is designed to help attorneys master the art of clear and effective brief writing. Emphasizing readability and precision, the program focuses on techniques to craft briefs that are not only persuasive but also accessible to diverse audiences, including judges, clients, and colleagues. Participants will learn strategies to eliminate ambiguity, structure arguments logically, and communicate complex ideas with simplicity and clarity. Whether you're an experienced a... More Info

$29

1General Credit
Artificial Intelligence & the Criminal Justice System

This CLE course examines the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on criminal law, highlighting its expanding role in law enforcement, the judicial process, and professional ethics. Participants will gain actionable strategies for addressing AI-generated evidence, navigating issues of bias and transparency, and keeping pace with evolving legislation shaping AI’s use in the criminal justice system. Key topics include: AI in Law Enforcement: Predictive policin... More Info

$55

1.75General Credits
Sentencing is Not Always the End of the Line

This CLE course focuses on the often-overlooked yet critical aspect of criminal defense practice: preparing for sentencing. While sentencing is a frequent occurrence—highlighted by a 2018 PEW Research Center Report showing that 90% of federal criminal cases ended in guilty pleas—there are few CLE programs dedicated to this phase of representation. This course emphasizes the importance of presenting your client as an individual with a unique life story, beyond the charges they face. Thr... More Info

$29

1General Credit
Handling Sexual Abuse Claims

This CLE course provides an essential overview of the legal principles, factors, and considerations involved in effectively addressing sexual abuse claims. The course explores what constitutes actionable sexual abuse, the common causes of action, and potential defenses. Key topics include liability and insurance coverage, legal obligations, public policy considerations, claim valuation, and resolution strategies. Special focus is given to alternative dispute resolution methods and rest... More Info

$55

2General Credits
Criminal Procedure: The 4th, 5th and 6th Amendments

This CLE lecture will explore critical topics including the definitions of search and seizure under the Fourth Amendment, the process of obtaining and executing search warrants, and the various exceptions to the warrant requirement. Additional topics include stop and frisk procedures, the exclusionary rule and its exceptions, Miranda rights under the Fifth Amendment, the voluntariness of statements under the Fourteenth Amendment, and a brief overview of the Sixth Amendment right to counsel. More Info

$55

2General Credits
Traumatic Brain Injury and Necessary Experts

To effectively pursue litigation involving traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), it is essential for any litigator to have a solid understanding of brain function, the causes and effects of TBIs, and the role of experts in these cases. This seminar offers a comprehensive overview of brain function and dysfunction, valuable not only for litigators but for anyone interested in the subject. By gaining insights into how the brain operates, we can better comprehend the foundations of human behavi... More Info

$29

1General Credit
Selecting the Appropriate ADR Forum for Your Case

Choosing the right ADR forum for tort cases is crucial, as not every forum is suitable for every lawsuit. Start by identifying the available ADR options, such as binding arbitration with high/low parameters, non-binding mediation, or hybrid approaches like Med-Arb. Considerations should include the jurisdiction, the status of the case (whether it's in the early pre-litigation stage, has undergone some discovery, or is trial-ready), and the potential impact of selecting a particular forum.... More Info

$29

1General Credit
No Mercy: Presenting a Successful Justification Defense

This cutting-edge CLE will guide you through the principles and practicalities of presenting a self-defense or justification defense at trial. This lecture is designed for both experienced practitioners seeking to refine their techniques and those new to the field looking to grasp the fundamentals. You will explore all the critical steps of a successful justification defense, including understanding the burden of proof, applying the reasonableness standard, conducting thorough discover... More Info

$29

1General Credit
An Introduction to Conducting a Special Civil Trial Under 20K in Damages

This CLE presentation is designed specifically for new attorneys who may lack mentorship or guidance from senior colleagues. It offers practical strategies to help them confidently handle a wide range of cases, from Special Civil matters to Temporary Restraining Orders and even more complex Civil litigation. The course aims to equip new attorneys with the flexibility needed to take on cases they might otherwise hesitate to accept. By adopting a repeatable trial strategy, participants wil... More Info

$29

1General Credit
Litigation: Using Outcome Based Strategies to Drive Value

Step into the arena of outcome-focused litigation strategies. Unlike traditional litigation, this approach is centered on achieving specific results through legal action. It begins with a well-defined goal, particularly regarding value and settlement objectives. This method also requires a keen awareness of the tactics needed to exert the right pressure on the opposing party to secure the desired outcome. By harnessing automation, we amplify our ability to drive these strategies toward... More Info

$107

4General Credits
U.S. Trademark Essentials: A Step-by-Step Guide

This CLE course offers a detailed, step-by-step guide to navigating the U.S. trademark application process from start to finish. We will cover everything from the advantages of securing a federal trademark registration to meeting the specific requirements set by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Participants will learn how to effectively respond to Office Actions and identify appropriate specimens to support their applications. Additionally, we will provide a concis... More Info

$29

1General Credit
In the Drone Zone: Legal Insights for Attorneys in Unmanned Aircraft Law

This CLE course offers attorneys a concise overview of unmanned aircraft systems (drones) and the legal and regulatory challenges they pose. Participants will explore drone technology, its diverse industry applications, and the key role of legal frameworks. The course covers federal FAA regulations on drone operations, including operational limits, registration, and compliance. It also addresses the complex mix of state and local laws affecting drone use across different areas. Attendees will... More Info

$55

1.5General Credits
Innovative Approaches to Drafting Copyright Infringement Complaints

As artificial intelligence continues to generate works that may be eligible for copyright protection, and the Internet increasingly permeates all areas of global commerce, understanding copyright law is becoming essential for any business attorney, whether in transactions or litigation. This CLE course will delve into the specific requirements for evaluating potential copyright claims and crafting comprehensive copyright complaints for filing in Federal District Court. Participants wil... More Info

$29

1.25General Credits
Capital Punishment: The Myth of Innocence

The issue of capital punishment has been a persistent and controversial element in the criminal codes of nearly every U.S. state since the nation's founding. This CLE course explores the multifaceted debates surrounding the death penalty, focusing on its fairness, administration, and inherent ethical concerns. Over the past 70 years, the controversy has centered on three primary issues: Can the death penalty be administered in a manner consistent with fair and constitutional procedures,... More Info

$29

1.25General Credits