Board Certification is the highest level of
recognition by The Florida Bar of the competency and experience of
attorneys in the areas of law approved for certification by the
Supreme Court of Florida. All lawyers are allowed to advertise but
only certified attorneys are allowed to identify themselves as
"Florida Bar Board Certified" or as a "specialist."
Every Board Certified Civil Trial Lawyer has practiced
law for at least five years and been substantially involved -- 30
percent or more -- in the area of civil trial law during the three
years preceding application. To be certified, the lawyer is required
to have conducted at least 15 contested civil cases in courts of
general jurisdiction during the lawyer's practice, including cases
before a jury and as lead counsel. Each certified lawyer must also
have passed peer review, completed 50 hours of continuing legal
education within the three years preceding application and passed a
written examination demonstrating knowledge, skills and proficiency
in the field of civil trial law to justify the representation of
special competence.
Board certification is valid for five years, during
which time the attorney must continue to practice law and attend
Florida Bar-approved continuing legal education courses. To be
recertified, requirements similar to those for initial certification
must be met
Not all qualified lawyers are certified, but those who
are board certified have taken the extra step to have their
competence and experience recognized.
Is your lawyer a Board Certified Civil Trial Lawyer?
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