True Crime

Crimes of the Century

4.73

Crimes of the Century CLE: Sex, Secrets, and Television Cameras: Litigation Lessons from the Pamela Smart Murder Trial

Credits Available
Credit Status Total
Alaska CLE Reciprocity 2 Total
Alabama CLE Approved 2 Total
Arkansas CLE Approved 2 Total
Arizona CLE Approved 2 Total
California CLE Approved 2 Total
Colorado CLE Approved 2 Total
Connecticut CLE Approved 2 Total
Delaware CLE Approved 2 Total
Florida CLE Approved 2.5 Total
Georgia CLE Approved 2 Total
Hawaii CLE Approved 2 Total
Iowa CLE Approved 2 Total
Idaho CLE Approved 2 Total
Illinois CLE Approved 2 Total
Indiana CLE Approved 2 Total
Kansas CLE Approved 2 Total
Kentucky CLE Approved 2 Total
Louisiana CLE Approved 2 Total
Maine CLE Approved 2 Total
Minnesota CLE Approved 2 Total
Missouri CLE Approved 2.4 Total
Northern Mariana Islands CLE Approved 2 Total
Mississippi CLE Approved 2 Total
Montana CLE Approved 2 Total
North Carolina CLE Approved 2 Total
North Dakota CLE Approved 2 Total
Nebraska CLE Approved 2 Total
New Hampshire CLE Approved 2 Total
New Jersey CLE Approved 2.4 Total
New Mexico CLE Approved 2 Total
Nevada CLE Approved 2 Total
New York CLE Approved 2 Total
Ohio CLE Approved 2 Total
Oklahoma CLE Approved 2.5 Total
Oregon CLE Approved 2 Total
Pennsylvania CLE Approved 2 Total
Rhode Island CLE Approved 2 Total
South Carolina CLE Approved 2 Total
Tennessee CLE Approved 2 Total
Texas CLE Approved 2 Total
Utah CLE Approved 2 Total
Virginia CLE Approved 2 Total
Vermont CLE Approved 2 Total
Washington CLE Approved 2 Total
Wisconsin CLE Approved 2 Total
West Virginia CLE Approved 2.4 Total
Wyoming CLE Upon Request 2 Total
OnDemand
2 hours 1 minute
Joel Oster
With Joel L. Oster from Comedian of Law, LLC
Recorded September 15, 2026.
Product ID 102642

Buy This Course

Course Includes
$199

OnDemand Video

Course Book Download

Overview

Trial Lessons From the Infamous Case

In 1990, 24-year-old Gregg Smart was found shot to death in what initially appeared to be a botched burglary at the New Hampshire condominium he shared with his wife, Pamela Smart. As investigators dug deeper, they uncovered a sensational story involving an affair between Smart, a high school media coordinator, and a teenage student. Prosecutors alleged that Smart manipulated her teenage lover and his friends into murdering her husband so she could avoid a divorce and pursue the relationship. The case ultimately resulted in a conviction for conspiracy, accomplice liability, and witness tampering.

The trial became one of the first criminal cases in America to receive extensive gavel-to-gavel television coverage, transforming a local murder prosecution into a national media spectacle. Prosecutors relied heavily on cooperating witnesses, secretly recorded conversations, and circumstantial evidence to portray Smart as the mastermind behind the crime. The defense argued that the teenage perpetrators acted on their own and falsely implicated her to secure favorable plea deals.

This class examines the Pamela Smart prosecution as a case study in accomplice liability, witness credibility, plea-bargained testimony, media influence, and trial strategy. Participants will explore how prosecutors built a compelling narrative without direct evidence that Smart ordered the murder and how defense counsel attempted to counter a case fueled by publicity, emotion, and cooperating witnesses. The lessons remain highly relevant for litigators handling high-profile cases today. Register today!

This program is designed in conjunction with attorney Joel Oster, Comedian of Law and True Crime Podcaster.

Abbreviated Agenda

  1. Case Background
  2. The Prosecution's Theory: Creating a Mastermind Narrative
  3. Cooperating Witnesses and Plea Bargains
  4. Recorded Conversations and Witness Tampering Evidence
  5. Tactical Concerns of Media Coverage, Cameras in the Courtroom, and Jury Impact
  6. Key Moments During Trial
  7. Appellate Issues
  8. Lessons Learned From the Pamela Smart Murder

Related Topics

Product ID 102642

Credit Details

Credits Available
Credit Status Total
Alaska CLE Reciprocity 2 Total
Alabama CLE Approved 2 Total
Arkansas CLE Approved 2 Total
Arizona CLE Approved 2 Total
California CLE Approved 2 Total
Colorado CLE Approved 2 Total
Connecticut CLE Approved 2 Total
Delaware CLE Approved 2 Total
Florida CLE Approved 2.5 Total
Georgia CLE Approved 2 Total
Hawaii CLE Approved 2 Total
Iowa CLE Approved 2 Total
Idaho CLE Approved 2 Total
Illinois CLE Approved 2 Total
Indiana CLE Approved 2 Total
Kansas CLE Approved 2 Total
Kentucky CLE Approved 2 Total
Louisiana CLE Approved 2 Total
Maine CLE Approved 2 Total
Minnesota CLE Approved 2 Total
Missouri CLE Approved 2.4 Total
Northern Mariana Islands CLE Approved 2 Total
Mississippi CLE Approved 2 Total
Montana CLE Approved 2 Total
North Carolina CLE Approved 2 Total
North Dakota CLE Approved 2 Total
Nebraska CLE Approved 2 Total
New Hampshire CLE Approved 2 Total
New Jersey CLE Approved 2.4 Total
New Mexico CLE Approved 2 Total
Nevada CLE Approved 2 Total
New York CLE Approved 2 Total
Ohio CLE Approved 2 Total
Oklahoma CLE Approved 2.5 Total
Oregon CLE Approved 2 Total
Pennsylvania CLE Approved 2 Total
Rhode Island CLE Approved 2 Total
South Carolina CLE Approved 2 Total
Tennessee CLE Approved 2 Total
Texas CLE Approved 2 Total
Utah CLE Approved 2 Total
Virginia CLE Approved 2 Total
Vermont CLE Approved 2 Total
Washington CLE Approved 2 Total
Wisconsin CLE Approved 2 Total
West Virginia CLE Approved 2.4 Total
Wyoming CLE Upon Request 2 Total

Credit Details by Jurisdiction

OnDemand Video

CLE Credits
Alaska CLE Reciprocity · 2 Total Credits

Earn Until

OnDemand - Alaska CLE - 2: Alaska Bar members may claim credit for attending CLE programs that have been accredited by other mandatory CLE jurisdictions. This program qualifies for 2.0 hours of credit, which includes 2.0 hours of MCLE credit and 0.0 hour of MECLE credit.

Video Download - Alaska CLE - 2: Alaska Bar members may claim credit for attending CLE programs that have been accredited by other mandatory CLE jurisdictions. This program qualifies for 2.0 hours of credit, which includes 2.0 hours of MCLE credit and 0.0 hour of MECLE credit.

Alabama CLE Approved · 2 Total Credits

Earn Until

OnDemand - Alabama CLE - 2: This course or a portion thereof has been approved by the Alabama State Bar Mandatory Continuing Legal Education Commission for a maximum of 2.0 on-demand credit hours, including 0.0 ethics/professionalism credit.

Arkansas CLE Approved · 2 Total Credits

Earn Until

OnDemand - Arkansas CLE - 2: NBI, Inc. is an accredited sponsor in the state of Arkansas. This program qualifies for 2.0 hours of on demand continuing legal education credit, including 0.0 hour of ethics, consistent with the rules and regulations of the Arkansas Supreme Court of Professional Programs.

Video Download - Arkansas CLE - 2: NBI, Inc. is an accredited sponsor in the state of Arkansas. This program qualifies for 2.0 hours of on demand continuing legal education credit, including 0.0 hour of ethics, consistent with the rules and regulations of the Arkansas Supreme Court of Professional Programs.

Arizona CLE Approved · 2 Total Credits

Earn Until

OnDemand - Arizona CLE - 2: The State Bar of Arizona does not approve or accredit CLE activities for the Mandatory Continuing Legal Education requirement. This activity qualifies for 2.0 hours toward your annual CLE requirement for the State of Arizona, including 0.0 hour of professional responsibility.

Video Download - Arizona CLE - 2: The State Bar of Arizona does not approve or accredit CLE activities for the Mandatory Continuing Legal Education requirement. This activity qualifies for 2.0 hours toward your annual CLE requirement for the State of Arizona, including 0.0 hour of professional responsibility.

California CLE Approved · 2 Total Credits
  • 2 Criminal Law

Earn Until

OnDemand - California CLE - 2: This activity has been approved for Minimum Continuing Legal Education credit by the State Bar of California and qualifies for 2.0 hours of participatory credit, of which 0.0 hour will apply to legal ethics credit. NBI, Inc. certifies this activity conforms to the standards for approved education activities prescribed by the rules and regulations of the State Bar of California governing minimum continuing legal education. NBI, Inc. is a State Bar of California approved MCLE provider - #53. This course has been approved for 2.0 units in the area of Criminal Law by the California Board of Legal Specialization.

Video Download - California CLE - 2: This activity has been approved for Minimum Continuing Legal Education credit by the State Bar of California and qualifies for 2.0 hours of self-study credit, of which 0.0 hour will apply to legal ethics credit. NBI, Inc. certifies this activity conforms to the standards for approved education activities prescribed by the rules and regulations of the State Bar of California governing minimum continuing legal education. NBI, Inc. is a State Bar of California approved MCLE provider - #53. This course has been approved for 2.0 units in the area of Criminal Law by the California Board of Legal Specialization.

Colorado CLE Approved · 2 Total Credits

Earn Until

OnDemand - Colorado CLE - 2: NBI, Inc. is a Certified Provider, as recognized by the Colorado Supreme Court Continuing Legal and Judicial Education Committee. This program qualifies for 2.0 hours of home study general Colorado Continuing Legal Education Credit, including 0.0 professional responsibility credit.

Video Download - Colorado CLE - 2: NBI, Inc. is a Certified Provider, as recognized by the Colorado Supreme Court Continuing Legal and Judicial Education Committee. This program qualifies for 2.0 hours of home study general Colorado Continuing Legal Education Credit, including 0.0 professional responsibility credit.

Connecticut CLE Approved · 2 Total Credits

Earn Until

OnDemand - Connecticut CLE - 2: Neither the Connecticut Judicial Branch nor the Commission on Minimum Continuing Legal Education approve or accredit CLE providers or activities. It is the opinion of NBI, Inc. that this activity qualifies for 2.0 self-study hours toward your annual CLE requirement in Connecticut, including 0.0 self-study hour(s) of ethics/professionalism.

Video Download - Connecticut CLE - 2: Neither the Connecticut Judicial Branch nor the Commission on Minimum Continuing Legal Education approve or accredit CLE providers or activities. It is the opinion of NBI, Inc. that this activity qualifies for 2.0 self-study hours toward your annual CLE requirement in Connecticut, including 0.0 self-study hour(s) of ethics/professionalism.

Delaware CLE Approved · 2 Total Credits

Earn Until

OnDemand - Delaware CLE - 2: NBI, Inc. is an accredited sponsor of the Delaware Commission on Continuing Legal Education and recommends this program for 2.0 hours of eCLE credit, including 0.0 hour of ethics.

Florida CLE Approved · 2.5 Total Credits
  • 2.5 Criminal Trial Law
  • 2.5 Criminal Appellate Law
  • 2.5 Juvenile Law

Earn Until

OnDemand - Florida CLE - 2.5: Approved by The Florida Bar, this program qualifies for 2.50 general hours of CLER self-study credit including 0.0 hour of self-study professional responsibility (may include legal ethics, professionalism, substance abuse or mental illness and wellness programs). Certifications: 2.5 - Criminal Appellate Law; 2.5 - Criminal Trial Law; 2.5 - Juvenile Law

Video Download - Florida CLE - 2.5: Approved by The Florida Bar, this program qualifies for 2.50 general hours of CLER self-study credit including 0.0 hour of self-study professional responsibility (may include legal ethics, professionalism, substance abuse or mental illness and wellness programs). Certifications: 2.5 - Criminal Appellate Law; 2.5 - Criminal Trial Law; 2.5 - Juvenile Law

Georgia CLE Approved · 2 Total Credits

Earn Until

OnDemand - Georgia CLE - 2: This program is approved by the Commission on Continuing Lawyer Competency of the State Bar of Georgia. This program qualifies for 2.0 hours of distance learning continuing legal education credit with the Georgia Commission on Continuing Lawyer Competency, which includes 0.0 hour of distance learning ethics.

Video Download - Georgia CLE - 2: This program is approved by the Commission on Continuing Lawyer Competency of the State Bar of Georgia. This program qualifies for 2.0 hours of distance learning continuing legal education credit with the Georgia Commission on Continuing Lawyer Competency, which includes 0.0 hour of distance learning ethics.

Hawaii CLE Approved · 2 Total Credits

Earn Until

OnDemand - Hawaii CLE - 2: NBI, Inc. is an Accredited Provider with the Hawaii State Board of Continuing Legal Education. This alternative format activity has been approved for 2.0 hours of credit for the state of Hawaii, which includes 0.0 hour of ethics or professional responsibility education.

Video Download - Hawaii CLE - 2: NBI, Inc. is an Accredited Provider with the Hawaii State Board of Continuing Legal Education. This alternative format activity has been approved for 2.0 hours of credit for the state of Hawaii, which includes 0.0 hour of ethics or professional responsibility education.

Iowa CLE Approved · 2 Total Credits

Earn Until

OnDemand - Iowa CLE - 2: "Crimes of the Century CLE: Sex, Secrets, and Television Cameras: Litigation Lessons from the Pamela Smart Murder Trial" is an accredited program under the regulations of the Iowa Supreme Court Commission on Continuing Legal Education. It is planned that this program will provide a maximum of 2.0 hours of unmoderated activity credit toward the mandatory continuing legal education requirements under the Iowa rule, including 0.0 hour of legal ethics unmoderated activity credit.

Idaho CLE Approved · 2 Total Credits

Earn Until

OnDemand - Idaho CLE - 2: Approved for 2.0 hours of self-study continuing legal education credit in the state of Idaho, which includes 0.0 self-study legal ethics or professional responsibility credit.

Video Download - Idaho CLE - 2: Approved for 2.0 hours of self-study continuing legal education credit in the state of Idaho, which includes 0.0 self-study legal ethics or professional responsibility credit.

Illinois CLE Approved · 2 Total Credits

Earn Until

OnDemand - Illinois CLE - 2: This program has been approved by the Illinois MCLE Board for 2.0 hours of recorded technology CLE credit, which includes approval for 0.0 hour of legal ethics, civility, professionalism CLE credit by the Illinois Supreme Court Commission on Professionalism.

Video Download - Illinois CLE - 2: This program has been approved by the Illinois MCLE Board for 2.0 hours of recorded technology CLE credit, which includes approval for 0.0 hour of legal ethics, civility, professionalism CLE credit by the Illinois Supreme Court Commission on Professionalism.

Indiana CLE Approved · 2 Total Credits

Earn Until

OnDemand - Indiana CLE - 2: This course has been approved by the Indiana Supreme Court Office of Admissions & Continuing Education. Participating attorneys are eligible to receive 2.0 hours of distance education, which includes 0.0 hour of ethics.

Kansas CLE Approved · 2 Total Credits

Earn Until

OnDemand - Kansas CLE - 2: Upon course completion and credit request submittal, an application will be submitted to Kansas CLE.

Video Download - Kansas CLE - 2: Upon course completion and credit request submittal, an application will be submitted to Kansas CLE.

Kentucky CLE Approved · 2 Total Credits

Earn Until

OnDemand - Kentucky CLE - 2: This program has been approved as a technological CLE activity by the Kentucky Bar Association Continuing Legal Education Commission and qualifies for 2.0 credits, including 0.0 ethics credits.

Video Download - Kentucky CLE - 2: This program has been approved as a technological CLE activity by the Kentucky Bar Association Continuing Legal Education Commission and qualifies for 2.0 credits, including 0.0 ethics credits.

Louisiana CLE Approved · 2 Total Credits

Earn Until

OnDemand - Louisiana CLE - 2: This course or a portion thereof has been approved by the Louisiana Mandatory Continuing Legal Education Committee of the Louisiana State Bar Association. This program qualifies for 2.0 hours (based on a 60-minute credit hour) of computer based credit, of which 0.0 hour will apply to computer based ethics credit.

Maine CLE Approved · 2 Total Credits

Earn Until

OnDemand - Maine CLE - 2: This course has been approved by the State of Maine Board of Overseers of the Bar. Lawyers who complete this course will receive 2.0 hours of self-study CLE credit.

Video Download - Maine CLE - 2: This course has been approved by the State of Maine Board of Overseers of the Bar. Lawyers who complete this course will receive 2.0 hours of self-study CLE credit.

Course Book - Maine CLE - 2: This course has been approved by the State of Maine Board of Overseers of the Bar. Lawyers who complete this course will receive 2.0 hours of self-study CLE credit.

Minnesota CLE Approved · 2 Total Credits

Earn Until

OnDemand - Minnesota CLE - 2: Approved for 2.0 hours of standard on-demand CLE credit, including 0.0 hour of ethics credit by the Minnesota Board of Continuing Legal Education.

Video Download - Minnesota CLE - 2: Approved for 2.0 hours of standard on-demand CLE credit, including 0.0 hour of ethics credit by the Minnesota Board of Continuing Legal Education.

Missouri CLE Approved · 2.4 Total Credits

Earn Until

OnDemand - Missouri CLE - 2.4: NBI, Inc. is an accredited sponsor with Missouri Minimum Continuing Legal Education. This program qualifies for 2.40 self-study CLE credit hours.

Video Download - Missouri CLE - 2.4: NBI, Inc. is an accredited sponsor with Missouri Minimum Continuing Legal Education. This program qualifies for 2.40 self-study CLE credit hours.

Course Book - Missouri CLE - 2.4: NBI, Inc. is an accredited sponsor with Missouri Minimum Continuing Legal Education. This program qualifies for 2.40 self-study CLE credit hours.

Northern Mariana Islands CLE Approved · 2 Total Credits

Earn Until

OnDemand - Northern Mariana Islands CLE - 2: This course has been approved by the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. Lawyers who complete this course shall receive 2.0 hours of self-study CLE credit.

Video Download - Northern Mariana Islands CLE - 2: This course has been approved by the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. Lawyers who complete this course shall receive 2.0 hours of self-study CLE credit.

Course Book - Northern Mariana Islands CLE - 2: This course has been approved by the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. Lawyers who complete this course shall receive 2.0 hours of self-study CLE credit.

Mississippi CLE Approved · 2 Total Credits

Earn Until

OnDemand - Mississippi CLE - 2: This course has been approved by the Mississippi Commission on Continuing Legal Education for a maximum of 2.0 hours of Online credit, which includes 0.0 hour of ethics/professionalism.

Montana CLE Approved · 2 Total Credits

Earn Until

OnDemand - Montana CLE - 2: This program qualifies for 2.0 hours of self-study CLE credit by the Montana Commission of Continuing Legal Education, including 0.0 hour of professional fitness and integrity credit.

Video Download - Montana CLE - 2: This program qualifies for 2.0 hours of self-study CLE credit by the Montana Commission of Continuing Legal Education, including 0.0 hour of professional fitness and integrity credit.

North Carolina CLE Approved · 2 Total Credits
  • 2 Criminal Law

Earn Until

OnDemand - North Carolina CLE - 2: NBI, Inc. is an accredited sponsor with the North Carolina State Board of Continuing Legal Education. Attendance of this program qualifies for 2.0 hours of online CLE credit, including 0.0 professional responsibility. This program qualifies for Criminal Law specialization certification credit.

Video Download - North Carolina CLE - 2: NBI, Inc. is an accredited sponsor with the North Carolina State Board of Continuing Legal Education. Attendance of this program qualifies for 2.0 hours of online CLE credit, including 0.0 professional responsibility. This program qualifies for Criminal Law specialization certification credit.

North Dakota CLE Approved · 2 Total Credits

Earn Until

OnDemand - North Dakota CLE - 2: North Dakota attorneys completing this program may claim 2.0 North Dakota self-study CLE credit hours, including 0.0 hour of self-study ethics credit, on the Report of Compliance.

Video Download - North Dakota CLE - 2: North Dakota attorneys completing this program may claim 2.0 North Dakota self-study CLE credit hours, including 0.0 hour of self-study ethics credit, on the Report of Compliance.

Nebraska CLE Approved · 2 Total Credits

Earn Until

OnDemand - Nebraska CLE - 2: NBI, Inc. is an accredited CLE sponsor in the state of Nebraska. This activity has been approved for 2.0 distance learning CLE credits, including 0.0 hour of professional responsibility credit.

Video Download - Nebraska CLE - 2: NBI, Inc. is an accredited CLE sponsor in the state of Nebraska. This activity has been approved for 2.0 distance learning CLE credits, including 0.0 hour of professional responsibility credit.

New Hampshire CLE Approved · 2 Total Credits

Earn Until

OnDemand - New Hampshire CLE - 2: NHMCLE does not approve or accredit CLE activities for the NH Minimum CLE requirement. NBI, Inc. believes this course meets the requirements of NH Supreme Court Rule 53 toward the annual NHMCLE requirement.

Video Download - New Hampshire CLE - 2: NHMCLE does not approve or accredit CLE activities for the NH Minimum CLE requirement. NBI, Inc. believes this course meets the requirements of NH Supreme Court Rule 53 toward the annual NHMCLE requirement.

New Jersey CLE Approved · 2.4 Total Credits

Earn Until

OnDemand - New Jersey CLE - 2.4: This program has been approved by the Board on Continuing Legal Education of the Supreme Court of New Jersey for 2.40 hours of alternative format CLE credit. Of these, 0.0 qualifies as hours of alternative learning format credit for ethics/professionalism.

Video Download - New Jersey CLE - 2.4: This program has been approved by the Board on Continuing Legal Education of the Supreme Court of New Jersey for 2.40 hours of alternative format CLE credit. Of these, 0.0 qualifies as hours of alternative learning format credit for ethics/professionalism.

New Mexico CLE Approved · 2 Total Credits

Earn Until

OnDemand - New Mexico CLE - 2: This program has been approved by the Board of Bar Commissioners of the State Bar of New Mexico. This program qualifies for 2.0 hours of self-study credit, including 0.0 hour of self-study ethics credit.

Video Download - New Mexico CLE - 2: This program has been approved by the Board of Bar Commissioners of the State Bar of New Mexico. This program qualifies for 2.0 hours of self-study credit, including 0.0 hour of self-study ethics credit.

Nevada CLE Approved · 2 Total Credits

Earn Until

OnDemand - Nevada CLE - 2: This course has been approved by the Nevada Board of Continuing Legal Education. This program qualifies for 2.0 hours of alternative format CLE credits by the Nevada Board of Continuing Legal Education, which includes 0.0 hour of alternative format ethical considerations.

Video Download - Nevada CLE - 2: This course has been approved by the Nevada Board of Continuing Legal Education. This program qualifies for 2.0 hours of alternative format CLE credits by the Nevada Board of Continuing Legal Education, which includes 0.0 hour of alternative format ethical considerations.

New York CLE Approved · 2 Total Credits
  • 2 Areas of Professional Practice

Earn Until

OnDemand - New York CLE - 2: This nontraditional format course has been approved in accordance with the requirements of the New York State Continuing Legal Education Board for up to 2.0 credit hours. 2.0 hours can be applied to the areas of professional practice requirement and is approved for experienced attorneys. NBI, Inc. offers a Financial Hardship Policy for qualifying individuals. To apply, please submit a request via email to our Tuition Discount Committee at customerservice@nbi-sems.com.

Video Download - New York CLE - 2: This nontraditional format course has been approved in accordance with the requirements of the New York State Continuing Legal Education Board for up to 2.0 credit hours. 2.0 hours can be applied to the areas of professional practice requirement and is approved for experienced attorneys. NBI, Inc. offers a Financial Hardship Policy for qualifying individuals. To apply, please submit a request via email to our Tuition Discount Committee at customerservice@nbi-sems.com.

Ohio CLE Approved · 2 Total Credits

Earn Until

OnDemand - Ohio CLE - 2: This course has been approved by the Supreme Court of Ohio Commission on Continuing Legal Education for 2.0 self-study CLE credit hours, including 0.0 hour of attorney professional conduct instruction.

Video Download - Ohio CLE - 2: This course has been approved by the Supreme Court of Ohio Commission on Continuing Legal Education for 2.0 self-study CLE credit hours, including 0.0 hour of attorney professional conduct instruction.

Oklahoma CLE Approved · 2.5 Total Credits

Earn Until

OnDemand - Oklahoma CLE - 2.5: This course has been approved by the Oklahoma Bar Association Mandatory Continuing Legal Education Commission. This program qualifies for 2.50 of On Demand CLE credit hours, which includes 0.0 hour of legal ethics.

Video Download - Oklahoma CLE - 2.5: This course has been approved by the Oklahoma Bar Association Mandatory Continuing Legal Education Commission. This program qualifies for 2.50 of On Demand CLE credit hours, which includes 0.0 hour of legal ethics.

Oregon CLE Approved · 2 Total Credits

Earn Until

OnDemand - Oregon CLE - 2: NBI, Inc. is an approved sponsor with the Oregon MCLE. This program qualifies for 2.0 hours of general continuing legal education credit and 0.0 hour of ethics credit.

Video Download - Oregon CLE - 2: NBI, Inc. is an approved sponsor with the Oregon MCLE. This program qualifies for 2.0 hours of general continuing legal education credit and 0.0 hour of ethics credit.

Pennsylvania CLE Approved · 2 Total Credits

Earn Until

OnDemand - Pennsylvania CLE - 2: This program has been approved by the Pennsylvania Continuing Legal Education Board. This program qualifies for 2.0 hours of distance learning credit, including 2.0 hours of substantive law, practice and procedure CLE credit and 0.0 hour of ethics, professionalism or substance abuse distance learning CLE credit.

Video Download - Pennsylvania CLE - 2: This program has been approved by the Pennsylvania Continuing Legal Education Board. This program qualifies for 2.0 hours of distance learning credit, including 2.0 hours of substantive law, practice and procedure CLE credit and 0.0 hour of ethics, professionalism or substance abuse distance learning CLE credit.

Rhode Island CLE Approved · 2 Total Credits

Earn Until

OnDemand - Rhode Island CLE - 2: NBI is an accredited sponsor with the Rhode Island MCLE Commission. This program is approved for 2.0 hours of CLE video replay credit in Rhode Island, including 0.0 of legal ethics.

Video Download - Rhode Island CLE - 2: NBI is an accredited sponsor with the Rhode Island MCLE Commission. This program is approved for 2.0 hours of CLE video replay credit in Rhode Island, including 0.0 of legal ethics.

South Carolina CLE Approved · 2 Total Credits

Earn Until

OnDemand - South Carolina CLE - 2: This course is accredited by the South Carolina Commission on Continuing Legal Education and Specialization for 2.0 alternatively delivered hours, of which 0.0 hour relates to legal ethics and professional responsibility.

Video Download - South Carolina CLE - 2: This course is accredited by the South Carolina Commission on Continuing Legal Education and Specialization for 2.0 alternatively delivered hours, of which 0.0 hour relates to legal ethics and professional responsibility.

Tennessee CLE Approved · 2 Total Credits

Earn Until

OnDemand - Tennessee CLE - 2: This course has been approved by the Tennessee Commission on Continuing Legal Education for a maximum of 2.0 hours of Distance Learning credit, including 0.0 hour of ethics/professionalism (EP) credit.

Texas CLE Approved · 2 Total Credits
  • 2 Criminal Law

Earn Until

OnDemand - Texas CLE - 2: This course is accredited for Minimum Continuing Legal Education credit by the State Bar of Texas Committee on MCLE in the amount of 2.0 credit hours, of which 0.0 credit hour will apply to legal ethics/professional responsibility credit. Hours in attendance at National Business Institute CLE seminars may be applied to the minimum Judicial Education requirement. This course has been approved by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization for certification and recertification continuing legal education requirements for attorneys and paralegals in the following specialty fields: 2.0 - Criminal Law

Video Download - Texas CLE - 2: This course is accredited for Minimum Continuing Legal Education credit by the State Bar of Texas Committee on MCLE in the amount of 2.0 credit hours, of which 0.0 credit hour will apply to legal ethics/professional responsibility credit. Hours in attendance at National Business Institute CLE seminars may be applied to the minimum Judicial Education requirement. This course has been approved by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization for certification and recertification continuing legal education requirements for attorneys and paralegals in the following specialty fields: 2.0 - Criminal Law

Utah CLE Approved · 2 Total Credits

Earn Until

OnDemand - Utah CLE - 2: National Business Institute is an approved "presumptive provider" with the Utah State Board of Continuing Legal Education. This program qualifies for 2.0 hours of self-study CLE credit for Utah attorneys, which includes 0.0 hour of ethics credit.

Video Download - Utah CLE - 2: National Business Institute is an approved "presumptive provider" with the Utah State Board of Continuing Legal Education. This program qualifies for 2.0 hours of self-study CLE credit for Utah attorneys, which includes 0.0 hour of ethics credit.

Virginia CLE Approved · 2 Total Credits

Earn Until

OnDemand - Virginia CLE - 2: This course has been approved by the Virginia Mandatory Continuing Legal Education Board for 2.0 hours of prerecorded credit, of which 0.0 hour will also apply in the area of legal ethics or professionalism.

Video Download - Virginia CLE - 2: This course has been approved by the Virginia Mandatory Continuing Legal Education Board for 2.0 hours of prerecorded credit, of which 0.0 hour will also apply in the area of legal ethics or professionalism.

Vermont CLE Approved · 2 Total Credits

Earn Until

OnDemand - Vermont CLE - 2: This course has been approved by the Vermont Board of Mandatory Continuing Legal Education. This program qualifies for 2.0 hours of self-study credit, including 0.0 hour of self-study ethics credit.

Video Download - Vermont CLE - 2: This course has been approved by the Vermont Board of Mandatory Continuing Legal Education. This program qualifies for 2.0 hours of self-study credit, including 0.0 hour of self-study ethics credit.

Washington CLE Approved · 2 Total Credits

Earn Until

OnDemand - Washington CLE - 2: This program qualifies for 2.0 hours of Washington continuing legal education (Self Study) A/V credit, which includes 2.0 hours of Law and Legal Procedure and 0.0 hour of ethics and professional responsibility.

Video Download - Washington CLE - 2: This program qualifies for 2.0 hours of Washington continuing legal education (Self Study) A/V credit, which includes 2.0 hours of Law and Legal Procedure and 0.0 hour of ethics and professional responsibility.

Wisconsin CLE Approved · 2 Total Credits

Earn Until

OnDemand - Wisconsin CLE - 2: Approved for 2.0 hours of repeated on-demand CLE credit by the Board of Bar Examiners.

Video Download - Wisconsin CLE - 2: Approved for 2.0 hours of repeated on-demand CLE credit by the Board of Bar Examiners.

West Virginia CLE Approved · 2.4 Total Credits

Earn Until

OnDemand - West Virginia CLE - 2.4: This program qualifies for 2.40 hours of pre-recorded credit, which includes 0.0 hour of pre-recorded ethics credit, under the West Virginia Rules for Mandatory Continuing Legal Education.

Video Download - West Virginia CLE - 2.4: This program qualifies for 2.40 hours of pre-recorded credit, which includes 0.0 hour of pre-recorded ethics credit, under the West Virginia Rules for Mandatory Continuing Legal Education.

Wyoming CLE Upon Request · 2 Total Credits

OnDemand - Wyoming CLE - 2: Upon course completion and credit request submittal, an application will be submitted to the Bar.

Video Download - Wyoming CLE - 2: Upon course completion and credit request submittal, an application will be submitted to the Bar.

Course Book (PDF Download)

CLE Credits
Maine CLE Approved · 2 Total Credits

Earn Until

Course Book - Maine CLE - 2: This course has been approved by the State of Maine Board of Overseers of the Bar. Lawyers who complete this course will receive 2.0 hours of self-study CLE credit.

Missouri CLE Approved · 2.4 Total Credits

Earn Until

Course Book - Missouri CLE - 2.4: NBI, Inc. is an accredited sponsor with Missouri Minimum Continuing Legal Education. This program qualifies for 2.40 self-study CLE credit hours.

Northern Mariana Islands CLE Approved · 2 Total Credits

Earn Until

Course Book - Northern Mariana Islands CLE - 2: This course has been approved by the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. Lawyers who complete this course shall receive 2.0 hours of self-study CLE credit.
Select Jurisdiction
CLE

Agenda

All times are shown in

  1. Case Background

    1. The Murder of Gregg Smart
    2. Initial Burglary Theory
    3. Investigation Timeline
    4. Emergence of the Conspiracy Allegations
    5. Why the Case Became a National Phenomenon

  2. The Prosecution's Theory: Creating a Mastermind Narrative

    1. Alleged Motive
    2. The Affair and Its Evidentiary Significance
    3. Accomplice Liability Principles
    4. Building a Conspiracy Case Without a Direct Order to Kill
    5. Themes Used in Opening Statement

  3. Cooperating Witnesses and Plea Bargains

    1. Testimony From Billy Flynn and the Teenage Co-Conspirators
    2. Incentives to Cooperate
    3. Corroboration Challenges
    4. Cross-Examination Strategies
    5. Credibility Assessments by Jurors
    6. When Does a Cooperating Witness Help - or hurt - the Prosecution?

  4. Recorded Conversations and Witness Tampering Evidence

    1. The Role of Confidential Informants
    2. Secretly Recorded Conversations
    3. Authentication and Admissibility
    4. Context versus Content
    5. Strategic Use of Recordings at Trial

  5. Tactical Concerns of Media Coverage, Cameras in the Courtroom, and Jury Impact

    1. One of America's First Televised Criminal Trials
    2. Managing Publicity Before and During Trial
    3. Voir Dire Challenges
    4. Public Perception vs. Courtroom Evidence
    5. Modern Parallels to Today's High-Profile Prosecutions

  6. Key Moments During Trial

  7. Appellate Issues

  8. Lessons Learned From the Pamela Smart Murder

    1. The Enduring Significance of the Pamela Smart Case
    2. Best Practices When Dealing With Cooperating Witnesses
    3. Managing Media Attention in High-Profile Litigation

Who Should Attend

This true-crime legal course is designed for attorneys. Paralegals and legal staff will also benefit.

Speakers

Joel L Oster
Joel L.
Oster
Comedian of Law, LLC
Speaker bio
Joel L Oster

Joel L. Oster

Comedian of Law, LLC
Joel Oster

is a litigator, national speaker, podcaster and stand-up comic. He is in private practice specializing in constitutional law, appellate advocacy, and attorney ethics. Mr. Oster regularly litigates First Amendment issues and has been lead counsel on two cases that ended up in the U.S. Supreme Court. He has argued a case before the United States District Court for the Western District of New York and the Second Circuit and was part of a legal team that successfully defended a case in the U.S. Supreme Court. He's also prevailed as lead counsel in defending a case before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit. Mr. Oster has spoken to thousands of attorneys across the United States and brings their combined practical perspectives to his seminars. He has presented at numerous bench and bar conferences and co-hosts the podcast DeBriefing the Law with Chris Marohn. The podcast covers current legal news and true crimes using their brand of humor. From the Supreme Court to O.J. Simpson, no legal topic is off-limits. Most importantly he is also a stand-up comic. Even though he has argued before numerous appellate courts, including Judge Calabresi of the Second Circuit, he said nothing compares to the nerves of trying to make a room full of drunk college kids laugh. He headlined the comedy tour "Presumed Funny" which featured random musings about the legal profession. Mr. Oster earned his J.D. degree from the University of Kansas School of Law. He is admitted to the bar in Kansas, Missouri, Florida and numerous federal courts.

View full profile
Loading recommendations...

TOP FAQs

How do I access my courses?
Courses are available within your account. Simply login to your account and click on My Courses. If you require additional assistance please call our Customer Service Department at 800-930-6182.
Do you have options for attendees who are deaf or hard of hearing?
Closed captioning is available for all Live Webinars. After you've joined the event room, you can enable closed captioning by clicking the "cc" button in the lower right of the player.
What happens if my course is cancelled?
In the unlikely event that NBI cancels or reschedules an upcoming program, each registered attendee will be contacted via email by a representative of NBI. Outreach to attendees begins as soon as NBI is made aware that a program will not move forward at its originally scheduled date and time.
Are multiple attendee discounts available?
Yes, the more people you bring from your organization, the more you save. After the first registration, each additional attendee receives a special discount off of their total tuition.
When will the OnDemand be available and how long will I have access to the content?
The OnDemand Video will be available to stream within 7 days of live broadcast date. You will have access to the content for 6 months in your account. If you’re a subscriber, you’ll have access to your course recordings until 7 days after the expiration date of the subscription.
What is included with my course purchase?
When you enroll prior to the live event date you will receive access to the live-streaming webinar which will allow you to interact with faculty in real-time. With each course, you will receive access to the content via OnDemand Streaming and the Video Download. Course reference materials are included with each course purchase in a downloadable PDF format.
Will I receive a certificate of completion?
Yes, we'll email you a certificate of completion and store in your account for any future reporting needs.
Can multiple people watch courses and request credit?
While only paid registrants can receive continuing education credit for attending, there are no limitations to the number of viewers at each connection.

Have more questions? Please Contact Us