Specialization

Q:  What is a Board Certified Attorney?

A: The Texas Board of Legal Specialization recognizes attorneys in various areas of law, who because of experience, training and knowledge are awarded certificates of special competence.

Q:  What are the requirements for board certification?

A: According to the Texas Board of Legal Specialization an attorney must have:

• At least five (5) years practice in the State of Texas.
• A required percentage of practice in the area of specialty for 3 years preceding application.
• Experience in a wide variety of matters related to that specialty.
• Evaluation by Judges before whom the attorney has appeared.
• Evaluation by fellow attorneys, either as co-counsel or adversaries.
• Pass a day long written examination.

Q:  How many attorneys are currently board certified?

A: Currently, there are 6481-7007 certified attorneys (the number varies slightly within the statistics provided by the Board of Specialization). This represents slightly less than 10% of all attorneys in the State. Currently, only 166 Lawyers that are Board Certified in Administrative Law.

Q:  How long does an attorney remain certified?

A: Certification is for a period of five years. Every five years the attorney must apply for recertification, meeting the requirements for continuing legal education, peer review and substantial involvement in the specialty field.