A recent evaluation from an attendee of one of our Criminal Defense Lawyers Project (CDLP) CLE events which had a DVD presentation said, “I’d much rather see the speaker in person so I can ask questions. Let’s not have canned DVD presentations!”
While I appreciate the sentiment, our grant and budget for CDLP CLE’s has been cut dramatically and there will be more DVD presentations. There will also be less catered food at hotels and more CDLP CLE’s in less expensive or even free venues.
These are difficult times in which we hear daily of government cost-cutting and news of families searching for ways to save. I don’t know a criminal defense lawyer in Texas who isn’t feeling the pinch. These same cost-cutting necessities have come to CDLP.
CDLP can save by presenting speakers via DVD to avoid travel expenses. Rest assured, we will never have a totally DVD program but some topics (such as: What to Tell Your Client About Sex Offender Registration) can be taught about as well via DVD as in person. CDLP can save by cutting back on food and beverages on breaks and by asking course directors to double as speakers.
These changes don’t have to affect the quality of our programs. We still have the most talented speakers in Texas at our seminars. We still offer the best Criminal Law CLE for the best price in the state. I’ve been a TCDLA member for more years than I care to admit. We are a tough bunch and don’t need $15 cinnamon buns at our breaks to practice good law. It’s going to be a leaner, but perhaps better, year for CDLP CLE.
