What is a Board Certified Specialist?
Rule 6-3.5(c)(6), Rules Regulating The
Florida Bar, makes it clear that board certification is only for those
attorneys who are recognized as having achieved “a level of competence
indicating special knowledge, skills, and proficiency in handling the
usual matters in the speciality field.
"Do certification examinations, peer
review, and a higher level of continuing legal education make for a
better attorney? Most judges would agree that it does. As stated by
Florida Supreme Court Justice Charles T. Wells, “I am extremely proud
that I received the distinction of certified trial lawyer at the time
that certification was first authorized by The Florida Bar. When I was
in active trial practice, it was my belief that being certified was
important to the Bar and to the public, and that belief has been
reinforced since I have served on the Supreme Court. The Bar and the
public can have confidence that certified lawyers have met strict
standards of peer recognition of their competence and objective testing
of their legal knowledge. When I see that a lawyer is certified, I know
that he or she earned that upper level or respect. I urge each lawyer to
do what is necessary to be certified in the lawyer’s area of practice.”
- Judge George W. Maxwell, III
"Certification should be the capstone for
a lawyer’s professionalism goals. The character, competence, and
commitment that define professionalism also constitute the essential
formula for certification. A lawyer who specializes should aspire to
become certified as a visible way to demonstrate that lawyer’s
commitment to professionalism and excellence. Board certification is
reliable proof of the character and commitment that sets a lawyer
apart." - Harry Lee Anstead, Chief Justice of the Florida Supreme
Court
