In 2024, Professor Tom McClure, Director of Legal Studies, made significant contributions to continuing legal education (CLE) through presentations across multiple states, including Missouri, Florida, and Illinois. As the chair of the American Bar Association (ABA) Standing Committee on Paralegals and a member of the Council for the ABA Senior Lawyers Division, McClure shared his expertise with various legal communities.
January:
McClure kicked off the year by lecturing to the Kansas City Paralegal Association on “The Economic Benefits of Using Paralegals.” His presentation highlighted both the financial advantages of employing paralegals and the ethical considerations for attorneys in utilizing their services effectively.
April:
In collaboration with retired judge Paul Lawrence, McClure addressed the McLean County Bar Association on Illinois Supreme Court Rule 137 motions for sanctions. This talk was part of the “What Would Abe Do?” program, celebrating the Lincoln Award for Excellence recipients from the association.
July:
During the United States Veterans Administration’s Southeast District conference in St. Petersburg, Florida, McClure discussed vital topics such as paralegal mental health, work-life balance, supervisor feedback, and the advantages of utilizing paralegals, along with the ABA Model Guidelines for Using Paralegals.
September:
McClure concluded his busy schedule by presenting a CLE program on implicit bias in jury selection to the Central Illinois Paralegal Association. This session was part of the 34th Legal Educational Seminar organized by the association, further emphasizing his commitment to legal education and professional development.
Through these presentations, Professor McClure continues to play a pivotal role in advancing legal education and fostering ethical practices within the legal community.
