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State Status Report on Lawyer Specialty Certification

AL | AK | AZ | AR | CA | CO | CT | DE | DC | FL | GA | HI | ID | IL | IN | IA | KS | KY | LA | ME | MD | MA | MI | MN | MS | MO | MT | NE | NV | NH | NJ | NM | NY | NC | ND | OH | OK | OR | PA | RI | SC | SD | TN | TX | UT | VT | VA | WA | WV | WI | WY

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Alabama

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

Private Certification Approval

Private Certification Programs
Civil Trial Advocacy
Criminal Law Trial Advocacy
Business Bankruptcy
Consumer Bankruptcy
Creditors’ Rights
Elder Law
Estate Planning Law
Family Law Trial Advocacy
Edward M. Patterson, Director of Programs
Alabama State Bar
415 Dexter Avenue
Montgomery, AL 36101
Phone: (334) 269-1515
Fax: (334) 261-6310
edpatter@alabar.org
Alabama State Bar - Specialization

ABA Accreditation Recognized

Yes

Regulatory Scheme & Status: The Alabama Rules of Professional Conduct permit lawyers to indicate that they are certified specialists where the certifying organization has been "previously approved by the Alabama State Bar Board of Legal Specialization..." [Rule 7.4(c)]. The comment to Rule 7.4 requires that communications regarding specialty certification include the name of the certifying entity. While there is presumptive approval for ABA accredited certification programs, these programs must show proof of accreditation and pay a registration fee to the State Bar Board of Legal Specialization. ABA accredited programs sponsored by the American Board of Certification, the American Board of Professional Liability Attorneys, the National Board of Trial Advocacy and the National Elder Law Foundation are recognized in Alabama. Non-Accredited programs must apply directly to the State Bar Board of Legal Specialization and pay a registration fee. (11/2004)

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Alaska

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

None

Private Certification Programs
Accounting Professional Liability
Business Bankruptcy
Civil Trial Advocacy
Consumer Bankruptcy
Creditors’ Rights
Criminal Law Trial Advocacy
DUI Defense
Elder Law
Estate Planning Law
Family Law Trial Advocacy
Juvenile Law - Child Welfare
Legal Professional Liability
Medical Professional Liability
Stephen J. Van Goor
Bar Counsel
Alaska Bar Association
510 L Strret Suite 602
Anchorage, AK 99501
Phone: (907) 272-7469
Fax: (907) 272-2932
vangoors@alaskabar.org

ABA Accreditation Recognized

Yes

Regulatory Scheme & Status: Under state ethics rules, lawyers are permitted to communicate information concerning specialty certification only if the certification is granted by an organization or authority whose specialty certification is accredited by the ABA. [Rule 7.4(b)]. (11/2004)

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Arizona

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

Direct Certification
Private Certification
Approval

State Bar of Arizona Board of Legal Specialization Programs

Bankruptcy
Criminal Law
Estate &Trust
Family Law
Injury & Wrongful Death
Real Estate
Taxation
Workers’ Compensation

Marnie Leinberger
Specialization Administrator
State Bar of Arizona -
Board of Legal Specialization
111 W. Monroe – Suite 1800
Phoenix, AZ 85003-1742
Phone: (602) 340-7327
Fax: (602) 271-4930
marnie.leinberger@staff.azbar.org
State Bar of Arizona - Find a Certified Specialist

ABA Accreditation Recognized

No

Regulatory Scheme & Status: State ethics rules allow attorneys to state that they are specialists in particular fields of practice where "the lawyer has been certified by the Arizona Board of Legal Specialization or … by a national entity which has standards for certification substantially the same as those established by the Board" [Rule 7.4]. At this time, no national certification programs are recognized in Arizona, which has a 50% substantial involvement requirement. (11/2004)

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Arkansas

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

None

  Larry Brady
Legal Specialization Comm.
Justice Building
625 Marshall
Little Rock, AR 72201
Phone: (501) 682-7995

ABA Accreditation Recognized

Yes

Regulatory Scheme & Status: The Arkansas Supreme Court amended Rule 7.4 to recognize ABA accreditation. The comment states "certification signifies that an objective entity has recognized an advanced degree of knowledge and experience in the specialty area greater than is suggested by general licensure to practice law." The Court created an Arkansas Legal Specialization Task Force to assist lawyers currently certified during the transition to a new system. (11/2004)

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California

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

Direct Certification
Private Certification
Approval

State Bar of California Certification Programs
Appellate Practice
Bankruptcy
Criminal Law
Estate Planning, Trust & Probate
Family Law
Immigration & Nationality
Taxation
Workers’ Compensation

Private Certification Programs
Business Bankruptcy
Civil Trial Advocacy
Consumer Bankruptcy
Creditors’ Rights
Criminal Law Trial Advocacy
Elder Law
Family Law Trial Advocacy
Medical, Legal & Accounting Malpractice

Phyllis Culp
Director
State Bar of California
Board of Legal Certification
180 Howard Street
San Francisco, CA 94105
Phone: (415) 538-2120
Fax: (415) 538-2211

Lorna Maynard
lorna.maynard@calsb.ca.gov
California Specialist

ABA Accreditation Recognized

Yes

Regulatory Scheme & Status: California Rules of Professional Conduct permit communications that state that a lawyer is a certified specialist, as long as "the member holds a current certificate as a specialist issued by the Board of Legal Specialization, or any other entity accredited by the State Bar to designate specialists…" [Rule 1-400(D)(6)]. In addition to its own certification programs, the State Bar of California accredits private certifying entities. ABA accredited programs qualify for an abridged accreditation process, but must demonstrate that the attorneys they certify meet California standards with respect to task, experience and examination requirements. ABA accredited programs sponsored by the American Board of Certification, the National Board of Trial Advocacy and the National Elder Law Foundation are accredited in California. (11/2004)

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Colorado

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

None

  Charles C. Turner
Executive Director
Colorado Bar Association
1900 Grant St. – Suite #950
Denver, CO 80203
Phone: (303) 860-1115
Fax: (303) 894-0821

ABA Accreditation Recognized

No

Regulatory Scheme & Status: Ethics Rule 7.4 permits lawyers to state or imply that they specialize as long as such statements comply with Rule 7.1, which prohibits false or misleading statements in communications regarding lawyers’ services. However, advertisements referencing specialty certification must also include the following disclaimer: "Colorado does not certify attorneys as specialists in any field" [Rule 7.4(f)]. The disclaimer is not required where the information concerning the lawyer's services is contained in a law list, law directory or a publication intended primarily for use of the legal profession. The comment to Rule 7.4 indicates that a claim of certification contained in a lawyer's letterhead does not require the disclaimer unless the letterhead is used in an advertisement. (11/2004)

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Connecticut

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

Private Certification
Approval

Private Certification Programs
Business Bankruptcy
Civil Trial Advocacy
Consumer Bankruptcy
Criminal Trial Advocacy

State Bar of CT
Certification Programs

Workers’ Compensation

Donna Fiorentino
Certification Program Advisor
Connecticut Bar Association
30 Bank St.
P.O. Box 350

New Britain, CT 06050-0350
Phone: (860) 612-2032
Fax: (860) 223-4488
fiorentino@ctbar.org
Legal Certification Programs in Connecticut

ABA Accreditation Recognized

No

Regulatory Scheme & Status: Connecticut Rule of Professional Conduct 7.4A permits attorneys to state or imply that they are certified specialists where certification is granted "by a board or other entity which is approved by the Rules Committee of the Superior Court…" [Rule 7.4A]. ABA accredited programs sponsored by the American Board of Certification and the National Board of Trial Advocacy have been approved by the Rules Committee. Additionally, the Connecticut Bar Association has approved standards, procedures and rules in the area of Workers’ Compensation law and is certifying attorneys directly in this area of practice. (11/2004)

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Delaware

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

None

Private Certification Programs

Accounting Professional Liability
Business Bankruptcy
Civil Trial Advocacy
Consumer Bankruptcy
Creditors’ Rights
Criminal Law Trial Advocacy
DUI Defense
Elder Law
Estate Planning Law
Family Law Trial Advocacy
Juvenile Law - Child Welfare
Legal Professional Liability
Medical Professional Liability

Mary M. Johnston
Chief Disciplinary Counsel
Delaware Supreme Court
Office of Disciplinary Counsel
P.O. Box 472
Wilmington, DE 19899
Phone: (302) 577-7042
Fax: (302) 577-7048

ABA Accreditation Recognized

Yes

Regulatory Scheme & Status: Delaware has adopted Section 7 of the ABA Model Rules of Professional Conduct, including Rule 7.4 ("Communications of Fields of Practice"). Under this rule, Delaware lawyers are permitted to communicate information regarding specialty certification – without a disclaimer – where the certification is awarded by an organization whose program is accredited by the ABA. Such communications must include the name of the certifying entity. (11/2004)

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District of Columbia

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

None

  Ernest Lindberg
Ethics Counsel
District of Columbia Bar
1250 H Street, NW – 6th Floor
Washington, D.C. 20005
Phone: (202) 626-3431
Fax: (202) 626-3473
elingberg@dcbar.org

ABA Accreditation Recognized

Not Needed

Regulatory Scheme & Status: The District of Columbia’s ethics rules permit wide-ranging communications concerning lawyers’ services, provided that the communications are neither false nor misleading [Rule 7.1(a)]. The Rules of Professional Conduct are otherwise silent with respect to lawyer specialization and certification. (11/2004)

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Florida

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

Direct Certification

The Florida Bar - Board of Legal Specialization & Education Certification Programs
Admiralty/Maritime
Antitrust & Trade Regulation
Appellate Practice
Aviation Law
Business Litigation
City, County &; Local Government
Civil Trial
Construction Law
Criminal Appellate
Criminal Trial
Elder Law
Health Law
Immigration & Nationality
International Law
Labor & Employment Law
Marital & Family Law
Real Estate Law
Tax Law
Wills, Trusts & Estates
Workers' Compensation

Private Certification Programs
Accounting Professional Liability
Business Bankruptcy
Civil Trial Advocacy
Consumer Bankruptcy
Creditors' Rights
Criminal Law Trial Advocacy
DUI Defense
Elder Law
Estate Planning Law
Family Law Trial Advocacy
Juvenile Law - Child Welfare
Legal Professional Liability
Medical Professional Liability

Dawna G. Bicknell, Director
The Florida Bar - Board of
Legal Specialization & Educ.
651 East Jefferson St.
Tallahassee, FL 32399-2300
Phone: (850) 561-5655
Fax: (850) 561-5660
dbicknell@flabar.org
The Florida Bar - Certification

ABA Accreditation Recognized

No

Regulatory Scheme & Status: The Florida Rules of Professional Conduct permit lawyers certified by the Florida Bar Board of Legal Specialization or those certified by another State Bar Association with "standards reasonably comparable to the standards of the Florida certification plan as set forth in chapter 6" may inform the public and other lawyers about such certification. Rule 4-7.2(c)(3). As amended effective May 20, 2004. (5/2005)

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Georgia

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

None

  General Counsel's Office
State Bar of Georgia
104 Marietta St. NW Suite 100
Atlanta, GA 30303
Phone: (404) 527-8720
Fax: (404) 527-8741

ABA Accreditation Recognized

Not Needed

Regulatory Scheme & Status: The Code of Professional Responsibility in Georgia has been overhauled to more closely parallel the ABA Model Rules. Under Georgia Model Rule 7.4 a lawyer may communicate a specialty gained by "experience, specialized training or education" or "certified by a recognized and bona fide professional entity", so long as the statement is not false or misleading. (11/2004)

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Hawaii

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

Secondary Certification

Private Certification Programs
Accounting Professional Liability
Business Bankruptcy
Civil Trial Advocacy
Consumer Bankruptcy
Creditors’ Rights
Criminal Law Trial Advocacy
DUI Defense
Elder Law
Estate Planning Law
Family Law Trial Advocacy
Juvenile Law - Child Welfare
Legal Professional Liability
Medical Professional Liability

Office of the Administrative
Director of the Courts
417 South King Street
Honolulu, HI 96813-2902
Phone: (808) 539-4900

 

ABA Accreditation Recognized

Yes

Regulatory Scheme & Status: Pursuant to Rule 7.4 of the Hawaii Rules of Professional Conduct, Hawaii lawyers are permitted to communicate information regarding specialty certification provided the communication is not false or misleading, clearly states the name of the certifying organization, and includes a statement indicating that "The Supreme Court of Hawaii grants … certification only to lawyers in good standing who have successfully completed a specialty program accredited by the American Bar Association" [Rule 7.4(c)]. Supreme Court Rule 1.13 calls for lawyers who are awarded certification by an ABA accredited program to petition the court for a ‘Hawaii Certificate of Specialization’ in the specialty area, which must be renewed every five years. (11/2004)

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Idaho

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

Private Certification Approval

Private Certification Programs
Accounting Professional Liability
Business Bankruptcy
Civil Trial Advocacy
Consumer Bankruptcy
Creditors’ Rights
Criminal Law Trial Advocacy
DUI Defense
Elder Law
Family Law Trial Advocacy
Juvenile Law - Child Welfare
Legal Professional Liability
Medical Professional Liability
Trial Specialist

ITLA Programs
Civil Trial Specialist
Criminal Trial Specialist

Workers Compensation

Bar Counsel
Idaho State Bar
525 West Jefferson St
P.O. Box 895
Boise, ID 83701
Phone: (208) 334-4500
Fax: (208) 334-4515

Idaho Trial Lawyers Association
1517 W. Hays
Boise, ID 83701
Phone: (208) 345-1890
Certification of Specialization Program

ABA Accreditation Recognized

Yes

Regulatory Scheme & Status: Idaho Rule of Professional Conduct 7.4 permits lawyers to communicate information regarding certification as long as the certification is awarded by the Idaho State Bar or "an organization which has been approved by the Idaho State Bar" [Rule 7.4]. Communications must also state the name of the certifying organization. The state bar does not directly certify lawyers as specialists, but presumptively recognizes ABA accredited programs. The bar has also approved programs sponsored by the Idaho Trial Lawyers Association. There are enhanced CLE requirements for attorneys holding themselves out as specialists or certified specialists. New Rules have been proposed that permit a lawyer to state he or she is certified if the certifying organization is approved by the Idaho State Bar pursuant to Section X of the Idaho Bar Commission Rules. The changes were effective 7/1/04. (11/2004)

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Illinois

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

None

  Mary McDermott
General Counsel
Illinois State Bar Association
Suite 900
20 S. Clark St.
Chicago, IL 60603
Phone: (312) 726-8775
Fax: (312) 726-9071

ABA Accreditation Recognized

No

Regulatory Scheme & Status: Ethics Rule 7.4 permits lawyers to use the terms ‘certified,’ ‘specialist,’ ‘expert’ or similar terms to describe their qualifications and to identify "certificates, awards or recognitions…." However, where such terms are used to reference one’s status as a board certified lawyer, the statement must be truthful and verifiable and must also include the following disclaimer: "The Supreme Court of Illinois does not recognize certification of specialties in the practice of law and the certificate, award or recognition is not a requirement to practice law in Illinois" [Rule 7.4(c)]. (11/2004)

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Indiana

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

Private Certification Approval

Private Certification Programs
Business Bankruptcy
Civil Trial Advocacy
Consumer Bankruptcy
Creditors' Rights
Criminal Law Trial Advocacy
Elder Law

Family Law Section, Indiana State Bar Association
Family Law

Julia Orzeske
Executive Director
Indiana Commission for CLE
1065 Merchants Plaza –
South Tower
115 West Washington Street
Indianapolis, IN 46204-3417
Phone: (317) 232-1943
Fax: (317) 233-1442
pwood@courts.state.in.us
Indiana Commission for CLE

ABA Accreditation Recognized

No

Regulatory Scheme & Status: Rule of Professional Conduct 7.4 allows communication "that the lawyer is certified as a specialist in a field of practice when the certification and communication are authorized under Admission and Discipline Rule 30." The state rules of professional conduct delegate to the Indiana Commission for Continuing Legal Education the responsibility for authorizing rules governing attorney certification. A lawyer certified through a program approved by the Commission for Continuing Legal Education may communicate "the fact that [he or she] is certified … as a specialist in the area of law involved." The Commission has approved programs sponsored by the American Board of Certification, the National Board of Trial Advocacy and the National Elder Law Foundation. Public comment period ended 4/23/04. (11/2004)

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Iowa

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

None

 

 

Norman G. Bastemeyer
Iowa Supreme Court
Board of Professional Ethics & Conduct
521 East Locust St.
Des Moines, IA 50309
Phone: (515) 243-0027
Fax: (515) 243-2511

ABA Accreditation Recognized

No

Regulatory Scheme & Status: Disciplinary Rule 2-105 limits lawyers’ claims of practice and claims of limitation of practice. DR 2-105 (E) states that a lawyer certified by an agency or a program formally recognized by the Iowa Supreme Court Board of Professional Ethics and Conduct may identify the certifying entity and describe the field of practice in accordance with the certification. 2003 Strategic Plan recommends further study of specialization. (11/2004)

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Kansas

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

None

  Jeffrey Alderman
Executive Director
Kansas Bar Association
1200 SW Harrison Street
Topeka, KS 66612-1806
Phone: (785) 234-5696
Fax: (785) 234-3813
Kansas Bar Association

ABA Accreditation Recognized

Not Needed

Regulatory Scheme & Status: Kansas Rule of Professional Conduct 7.4 does not specifically address communications of specialization or board certification. It does, however, state that a "lawyer may communicate the fact that the lawyer does or does not practice in particular fields of law" [Rule 7.4]. The commentary suggests that the rule would be amended in the event that the Kansas Supreme Court adopts "provisions pertaining to designation of specialization…" (11/2004)

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Kentucky

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

None

  Bruce K. Davis
Executive Director
Kentucky Bar Association
514 West Main Street
Frankfort, KY 40601-1883
Phone: (502) 564-3795
Fax: (502) 564-3225
Kentucky Bar Association

ABA Accreditation Recognized

Not Needed

Regulatory Scheme & Status: Under the Kentucky Rules of Professional Conduct, lawyers may state that they have been certified as specialists by bona fide certifying organizations – as Rule 7.40 states, "by an organization qualifying under Peel v. Attorney Registration & Disciplinary Commission of Illinois." Communications referencing specialty certification must include the name of the certifying organization [Rule 7.40(3)]. (11/2004)

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Louisiana

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

Direct Certification
Private Certification
Approval

State Bar of Louisiana – Board of Specialization Certification Programs

Business Bankruptcy
Consumer Bankruptcy
Estate Planning &
Administration
Family Law
Tax Law

 

Catherine S. Zulli
Executive Director
State Bar of Louisiana
Board of Legal Specialization
601 St. Charles Avenue
New Orleans, LA 70130
Phone: (504) 619-0128
Fax: (425) 940-0470
Louisiana Bar - Lawyer Specialization

ABA Accreditation Recognized

No

Regulatory Scheme & Status: Rule 7.4 permits statements pertaining to specialty certification where the "certification, specialization or expertise has been recognized or approved in accordance with the rules and procedures established by the Louisiana Board of Legal Specialization" [Rule 7.4]. The Louisiana Board of Legal Specialization operates a direct certification program and also approves private certifying organizations. Lawyers certified by the Board or by an approved organization may state: "Board Certified (Field of Practice) Specialist– Louisiana Board of Legal Specialization" or "Certified by (Name of Certifying Entity) as a (Field of Practice) Specialist" [Louisiana State Bar Association Plan of Legal Specialization, Section 12(C)(1)]. (11/2004)

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Maine

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

Private Certification
Approval

Private Certification Programs

Accounting Professional Liability
Civil Trial Advocacy
Criminal Law Trial Advocacy
Business Bankruptcy
Consumer Bankruptcy
Creditors’ Rights
DUI Defense
Elder Law
Estate Planning Law
Family Law Trial Advocacy
Juvenile Law - Child Welfare
Legal Professional Liability
Medical Professional Liability

J. Scott Davis, Esq.
Bar Counsel
Maine Bar Board of Overseers
97 Winthrop Street
P.O. Box 527
Augusta, ME 04332-1527
Phone: (207) 623-1121
Fax: (207) 623-4175
Board of Overseers of the Bar

ABA Accreditation Recognized

Yes

Regulatory Scheme & Status: Maine’s code of professional responsibility permits lawyers to make truthful statements identifying fields of specialty practice or "reporting certification or other recognition of expertise conferred by a named organization that has been approved by the Maine Board of Overseers of the Bar…" [Rule 3.8(b)]. The state plan of specialization permits the Board to "approve without further investigation an organization that has been approved by the American Bar Association…" [Maine Bar Rules – Rule 4(d)(24)]. (11/2004)

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Maryland

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

None

  Paul V. Carlin
Executive Director
Maryland State Bar Assn.
Maryland Bar Center
520 W. Fayette Street
Baltimore, MD 21201
Phone: (410) 685-7878
Fax: (410) 837-0518
pcarlin@msba.org
Maryland State Bar Association


Harry Siegel
mdlawyer@aol.com

ABA Accreditation Recognized

No

Regulatory Scheme & Status: The Maryland Rules of Professional Conduct prohibit lawyers from holding themselves out as specialists [Rule 7.4a]. (11/2004)

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Massachusetts

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

None

 

 

Abigail Shaine
Executive Director
Massachusetts Bar Assn.
20 West Street
Boston, MA 02111-1218
Phone: (617) 338-0500
Fax: (617) 338-0650
Massachusetts Bar Association

ABA Accreditation Recognized

No

Regulatory Scheme & Status: Massachusetts Rule of Professional Conduct 7.4 permits lawyers to hold themselves out as specialists and to state that they "concentrate in," "specialize in," are "certified in" or have "expertise in" a particular field of law as long as such statements are not deceptive, name the certifying entity and also include the following disclaimer: "(Name of Certifying Organization) is a private organization whose standards for certification are not regulated by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts." In addition, the rules indicate that lawyers holding themselves out as specialists are implying expertise and, as a result, should be "held to the standard of performance of specialists in (the) … particular area." (11/2004)

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Michigan

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

None

  John T. Berry
Executive Director
State Bar of Michigan
306 Townsend St
Lansing, MI 48933-2083
Phone: (800) 968-1442
Fax: (517) 482-6248
State Bar of Michigan

ABA Accreditation Recognized

Not Needed

Regulatory Scheme & Status: Michigan Rule of Professional Conduct 7.4 does not mention lawyer specialization or board certification. The rule states that a "lawyer may communicate the fact that the lawyer does or does not practice in particular fields of law" [Rule 7.4]. New Rules have been proposed that will recognize ABA accredited organizations. Public comment period expires 2/1/05. (11/2004)

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Minnesota

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

Private Certification
Approval

Approved Certification Programs

Business Bankruptcy
Civil Trial Practice (NBTA)
Civil Trial Practice (MSBA)
Consumer Bankruptcy
Creditors’ Rights
Criminal Law (NBTA)
Elder Law (NELF)
Family Law Trial Advocacy (NBTA)
Real Property (MSBA)

 

Cleone R. Brazil
Minn. Board of Legal Cert.
Galtier Plaza, Suite 201
St. Paul, MN 55101
Phone: (651) 282-5689
Fax: (651) 296-5866
State Board of Legal Certification

Meaghan Harper
Minn. State Bar Assn.
600 Nicollet Mall, #380
Minneapolis, MN 55402
Phone: (612) 278-6318
Fax: (612) 333-4927
Legal Specialist Certification

ABA Accreditation Recognized

No

Regulatory Scheme & Status: State Rules of Professional Conduct allow lawyers to state that they are specialists if they are currently certified or approved as a specialist in a field of law by an organization that is approved by the State Board of Legal Certification. The Minnesota Board of Legal Certification has approved programs sponsored by the following certifying entities: The American Board of Certification, the National Board of Trial Advocacy, the National Elder Law Foundation, and the Real Property and Civil Trial Sections of the Minnesota State Bar Association. (11/2004)

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Mississippi

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

None

Private Certification Programs

Accounting Professional Liability
Business Bankruptcy
Civil Trial Advocacy
Consumer Bankruptcy
Creditors’ Rights
Criminal Law Trial Advocacy
DUI Defense
Elder Law
Estate Planning Law
Family Law Trial Advocacy
Juvenile Law - Child Welfare
Legal Professional Liability
Medical Professional Liability

Michael B. Martz
General Counsel
Mississippi State Bar Assn.
P.O. Box 2168
Jackson, MS 39225-2168
Phone: (601) 948-4471
Fax: (601) 355-8635

ABA Accreditation Recognized

Yes

Regulatory Scheme & Status: The Mississippi ethics rules (7.6) permit lawyers to communicate information regarding certification, without a disclaimer, where the certification has been awarded by an organization whose program is accredited by the ABA. Lawyers certified by non-accredited organizations must disclose this fact and further state that "there is no procedure in Mississippi for approving, certifying or designating organizations or authorities." (11/2004)

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Missouri

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

None

 

 

Chris Janku
Director of Programs
The Missouri Bar
326 Monroe
P.O. Box 119
Jefferson City, MO 65102
Phone: (314) 638-2231
Fax: (314) 635-2811

ABA Accreditation Recognized

No

Regulatory Scheme & Status: Lawyers may state or imply that they are specialists, but must include the following disclaimer: "(N)either the Supreme Court of Missouri nor the Missouri Bar reviews or approves certifying organizations or specialist designations" [Rules of Professional Conduct 4-7.4]. (11/2004)

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Montana

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

None

Private Certification Programs

Accounting Professional Liability
Business Bankruptcy
Civil Trial Advocacy
Consumer Bankruptcy
Creditors’ Rights
Criminal Law Trial Advocacy
DUI Defense
Elder Law
Estate Planning Law
Family Law Trial Advocacy
Juvenile Law - Child Welfare
Legal Professional Liability
Medical Professional Liability

Chris Manos
Executive Director
State Bar of Montana
46 N. Last Chance Gulch
Suite 2A
P.O. Box 577
Helena, MT 59624
Phone: (406) 442-7660
Fax: (406) 442-7763

ABA Accreditation Recognized

Yes

Regulatory Scheme & Status: Montana Rule of Professional Conduct 7.4 follows the ABA Model Rule and allows certified specialists to so indicate as long as the certifying organization is approved by an appropriate state authority or the ABA and the certifying organization is clearly identified. New Rules became effective 4/1/04. (11/2004)

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Nebraska

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

None

 

 

Sam Clinch
Associate Executive Director
Nebraska State Bar Assn.
635 South 14th Street
Second Floor
P.O. Box 81809
Lincoln, NE 68508
Phone: (402) 475-7091
Fax: (402) 475-7098
Nebraska State Bar Association

ABA Accreditation Recognized

No

Regulatory Scheme & Status: Ethical Consideration 2-14 currently forbids lawyers from holding themselves out as specialists until the state implements regulatory controls "to insure the existence of special competence." Lawyers may, however, indicate fields of law in which they practice or to which they limit their practice, as long as there is no implication of certification or official recognition as a specialist. New Rules have been proposed that would allow lawyers to advertise certification granted by ABA accredited certifying organizations. (11/2004)

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Nevada

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

None

Private Certification Programs

Accounting Professional Liability
Business Bankruptcy
Civil Trial Advocacy
Consumer Bankruptcy
Creditors’ Rights
Criminal Law Trial Advocacy
DUI Defense
Elder Law
Estate Planning Law
Family Law Trial Advocacy
Juvenile Law - Child Welfare
Legal Professional Liability
Medical Professional Liability

Allen Kimbrough
Executive Director
State Bar of Nevada
600 East Charleston Blvd.
Las Vegas, NV 89104
Phone: (702) 382-2200
Fax: (702) 385-2878
State Bar of Nevada - Specialization

ABA Accreditation Recognized

Yes

Regulatory Scheme & Status: Nevada has revised their Supreme Court Rules and Board of Governors Governing Rules to allow for communication of specialty certification under certain circumstances. Pursuant to Governing Rule #3, the Board of Governors reciprocally approves all certifying organizations accredited by the ABA. (11/2004)

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New Hampshire

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

None

Private Certification Programs

Accounting Professional Liability
Business Bankruptcy
Civil Trial Advocacy
Consumer Bankruptcy
Creditors’ Rights
Criminal Law Trial Advocacy
DUI Defense
Elder Law
Estate Planning Law
Family Law Trial Advocacy
Juvenile Law - Child Welfare
Legal Professional Liability
Medical Professional Liability

Dave Peck
New Hampshire Supreme Ct.
Frank Rowe Kenison Building
Concord, NH 03301
Phone: (603) 271-2646
Fax: (603) 271-6630

ABA Accreditation Recognized

Yes

Regulatory Scheme & Status: The New Hampshire Rules of Professional Conduct permit communication of specialty certification if certified by an ABA accredited organization. (11/2004)

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New Jersey

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

Direct Certification

Programs Sponsored by the Supreme Court Board on Attorney Certification

Civil Trial
Criminal Trial
Matrimonial
Workers’ Compensation

Private Certification Programs

Accounting Professional Liability
Business Bankruptcy
Civil Trial Advocacy
Consumer Bankruptcy
Creditors’ Rights
Criminal Law Trial Advocacy
DUI Defense
Elder Law
Estate Planning Law
Family Law Trial Advocacy
Juvenile Law - Child Welfare
Legal Professional Liability
Medical Professional Liability

Wendy L. Weiss
Staff Attorney
New Jersey Supreme Court
Bd. on Attorney Certification
25 West Market Street
Trenton, NJ 08625
Phone: (609) 984-3077
Fax: (609) 396-9056
New Jersey Board on Attorney Certification

ABA Accreditation Recognized

Yes

Regulatory Scheme & Status: Lawyers may communicate information regarding certification subject to the following requirements: (1) The communication must not be false or misleading and (2) must state the name of the certifying organization, including certification granted by the Supreme Court of New Jersey or by an ABA accredited organization. Where the organization has not been approved or has been denied approval by either the New Jersey Supreme Court or the ABA, such information must be "clearly identified in each such communication by the lawyer" [Rule 7.4(b)]. (11/2004)

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New Mexico

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

Direct Certification

New Mexico Board of Legal Specialization Certification Programs

Appellate Practice
Bankruptcy-Business
Bankruptcy-Consumer
Civil Trial
Consumer
Criminal Trial
Employment & Labor Law
Environmental
Estate Planning, Probate & Trusts
Family Law
Federal Indian Law
Local Government Law
Natural Resources
Real Estate
Taxation
Workers’ Compensation

Jenny Oram
Court Related Programs Assistant Director
N.M. Board of Legal Spec.
5125 Masthead NE
Albuquerque, NM 87109
Phone: (505) 797-6057
Fax: (505) 797-6097
ls@nmbar.org
State Bar of New Mexico - Legal Specialization

ABA Accreditation Recognized

No

Regulatory Scheme & Status: New Mexico Rule of Professional Conduct 16-704 permits lawyers to state that they are specialists in particular fields of law. However, an attorney who is certified by an entity other than the New Mexico Board of Legal Specialization must include "a prominent disclaimer that such certification does not constitute recognition by the New Mexico Board of Legal Specialization" unless the lawyer is also recognized by the board as a specialist in that area of the law or the board does not recognize specialization in that area. [Rule 16-704(C)]. (11/2004)

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New York

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

None

Private Certification Programs

Accounting Professional Liability
Business Bankruptcy
Civil Trial Advocacy
Consumer Bankruptcy
Creditors’ Rights
Criminal Law Trial Advocacy
DUI Defense
Elder Law
Estate Planning Law
Family Law Trial Advocacy
Juvenile Law - Child Welfare
Legal Professional Liability
Medical Professional Liability

Kathleen Baxter
Counsel
New York State Bar Assn.
One Elk Street
Albany, NY 12207
Phone: (518) 463-3200
Fax: (518) 487-5694
ethics@nysba.org
www.nysba.org

ABA Accreditation Recognized

Yes, but with a discalimer.

Regulatory Scheme & Status: Disciplinary Rule 2-105 allows lawyers to identify themselves as specialists if they have been certified by an organization approved by the Appellate Division of the state court or accredited by the ABA. However, the rule requires lawyers who identify themselves as specialists to include the following disclaimer: "The [Name of Private Certifying Organization] is not affiliated with any governmental authority. Certification is not a requirement for the practice of law in the State of New York and does not necessarily indicate greater competence than other attorneys experienced in this field of law." The rule also permits lawyers certified through other state affiliated certification programs to identify themselves as specialists, but requires a similar disclaimer: "Certification granted by the [Name of State Certification Program] is not recognized by any governmental authority within the State of New York. Certification is not a requirement for the practice of law in the State of New York and does not necessarily indicate greater competence than other attorneys experienced in this field of law." (11/2004)

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North Carolina

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

Direct Certification

North Carolina State Bar Board of Legal Specialization Certification Programs
Business Bankruptcy Law
Consumer Bankruptcy Law
Criminal Appellate Practice
Federal Criminal Law
State Criminal Law
Estate Planning & Probate Law
Family Law
Immigration Law
Real Property Law: Business, Commercial & Industrial
Real Property Law: Residential Transactions
Workers' Compensation Law

Private Certification Programs

Accounting Professional Liability
Business Bankruptcy
Civil Trial Advocacy
Consumer Bankruptcy
Creditors’ Rights
Criminal Law Trial Advocacy
DUI Defense
Elder Law
Estate Planning Law
Family Law Trial Advocacy
Juvenile Law - Child Welfare
Legal Professional Liability
Medical Professional Liability

Alice Neece Mine
Assistant Executive Director
North Carolina State Bar –
Board of Legal Specialization
208 Fayetteville Street Mall
P.O. Box 25908
Raleigh, NC 27611-5908
Phone: (919) 828-4620
Fax: (919) 821-9168
www.nclawspecialists.org

ABA Accreditation Recognized

Yes

Regulatory Scheme & Status: Rule 7.4 permits lawyers to communicate information regarding certification where awarded by the North Carolina State Bar, organizations approved by the state bar or organizations accredited by the ABA. Such communications must state the name of the certifying organization and must not be false or misleading. (11/2004)

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North Dakota

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

None

  Christine Hogan
Executive Director
State Bar Assn. of N.D.
P.O. Box 2136
Bismarck, ND 58502-2136
Phone: (701) 255-1404
Fax: (701) 224-1621
www.sband.org

ABA Accreditation Recognized

Not Needed

Regulatory Scheme & Status: The North Dakota Rules of Professional Conduct do not mention lawyer specialization or certification. Rule 7.1 prohibits lawyers from making "false or misleading" statements – e.g. those containing material misrepresentations or assertions that cannot be substantiated – in communications [Rule 7.1(a)]. (11/2004)

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Ohio

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

Private Certification Approval

Programs Accredited by the Supreme Court Commission on Certification of Attorneys as Specialists

Private Certifying organizations
Business Bankruptcy
Consumer Bankruptcy
Civil Trial Advocacy
Criminal Trial Advocacy
Creditors Rights/Debt Collection
Elder Law
Family Law Advocacy

OSBA Programs
Estate Planning, Trust & Probate
Family Relations
Federal Taxation
Labor & Employment
Real Property - Business, Commercial & Industrial
Real Property - Residential
Ohio Workers' Compensation

Diane Chesley-Lahm
The Supreme Court of Ohio
Commission on Certification
of Attorneys as Specialists
30 East Broad Street
Columbus, OH 43266-0419
Phone: (614) 728-0991
www.sconet.state.oh.us

Melissa Quick
Specialization & Certification Manager
Ohio State Bar Association
1700 Lake Shore Dr.
Columbus, OH 43204
(800) 282-0556 ext. 4411
Ohio State Bar - Specialization Program

ABA Accreditation Recognized

No

Regulatory Scheme & Status: Disciplinary Rule 2-105 permits lawyers to hold themselves out as specialists in accordance with rules issued by the state supreme court [DR 2-105(A)(1)]. Lawyers may communicate information regarding certification awarded by unapproved "bona fide" private organizations, but such communications must include "a statement that the certifying organization is not approved by the Supreme Court Commission on Certification of Attorneys as Specialists" [DR 2-105(A)(5)]. (11/2004)

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Oklahoma

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

None

  William Sullivan
Executive Director
Oklahoma Bar Assn.
1901 N. Lincoln Blvd.
Oklahoma City, OK 73152-3036
Phone: (405) 416-7000
Fax: (405) 416-7001
www.okbar.org

ABA Accreditation Recognized

No

Regulatory Scheme & Status: Oklahoma Rule of Professional Conduct prohibits lawyers from indicating that they are specialists unless certified by the state supreme court. To date, the state supreme court has not implemented a plan to either certify attorneys directly or approve certifying organizations. Rule 7.4(4) allows lawyers certified under another state's licensing authority to communicate the fact with a disclaimer that such certification is not recognized by the Supreme Court of Oklahoma. (11/2004)

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Oregon

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

None

  Karen Garst
Executive Director
Oregon State Bar
5200 SW Meadows Road
P.O. Box 1689
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
Phone: (503) 620-0222
Fax: (503) 684-1366
www.osbar.org

ABA Accreditation Recognized

Not Needed

Regulatory Scheme & Status: Disciplinary Rule 2-101 does not permit lawyers to state or imply that they specialize, concentrate or limit their practice if the statement or implication is false or misleading [DR 2-101(A)(4)]. A proposal to change to the Model Rules would not result in a change in treatment of certified specialists. (11/2004)

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Pennsylvania

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

Private Certification
Approval

Private Certification Programs

Civil Trial Advocacy
Criminal Law Trial Advocacy
Business Bankruptcy
Creditors’ Rights
Consumer Bankruptcy
Elder Law
Family Law Trial Advocacy

Diann Stinney
Pennsylvania Bar Association
100 South Street
P.O. Box 186
Harrisburg, PA 17108-0186
Phone: (717) 238-6715
Fax: (717) 238-1207
www.pabar.org

ABA Accreditation Recognized

No

Regulatory Scheme & Status: A lawyer may not state that he or she is a certified specialist unless the certification is awarded by an organization approved by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court – through the Pennsylvania Bar Association – or by a direct certification program established by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court [Rule 7.4(a)]. Pennsylvania does not offer direct certification, but accredits programs sponsored by private certifying entities. Programs sponsored by the American Board of Certification and the National Board of Trial Advocacy have been approved. (11/2004)

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Rhode Island

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

None

  Helen Desmond McDonald
Executive Director
Rhode Island State Bar Assn.
115 Cedar Street
Providence, RI 02903
Phone: (401) 421-5740
Fax: (401) 421-2703
www.ribar.com

ABA Accreditation Recognized

No

Regulatory Scheme & Status: Rhode Island Rule of Professional Conduct 7.4 provides that a lawyer may not state or imply that he or she is a specialist, except in the areas of patent and admiralty law. Lawyers are permitted to state that their practices are "limited to or concentrated in particular fields of law" as long as the communication contains a disclaimer indicating that "the Rhode Island Supreme Court licenses all lawyers in the general practice of law. The court does not license or certify a lawyer as an expert or specialist in any field of practice" [Rule 7.4]. (11/2004)

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South Carolina

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

Direct Certification
Private Certification
Approval

South Carolina Supreme Court Commission on CLE & Specialization Certification Programs

Bankruptcy & Debtor/Creditor
Estate Planning & Probate
Employment & Labor
Taxation

Private Certification Programs

Accounting Professional Liability
Civil Trial Advocacy
Criminal Trial Advocacy
DUI Defense
Family Law Trial Advocacy
Juvenile Law - Child Welfare
Legal Professional Liability
Medical Professional Liability

Mary A. Germack
Executive Director
S.C. Supreme Ct. Comm’n. on CLE & Specialization
950 Taylor St, Suite 120
Columbia, SC 29202
Phone: (803) 799-5578
Fax: (803) 799-4118
www.commcle.org

ABA Accreditation Recognized

Yes

Regulatory Scheme & Status: Pursuant to Rule of Professional Conduct 7.4, a lawyer certified under the Rules of Lawyer Competence may "advertise or state publicly … that (he or she) is certified as a specialist in the pertinent specialty field by the Supreme Court of South Carolina" [Rule 7.4(a)]. Non-Certified lawyers who indicate that they concentrate or limit their practices are prohibited from using the words "certified," "specialist," "expert" or "authority" in advertisements and other statements referring to their qualifications [Rule 7.4(b)]. The Supreme Court Commission selects the fields of practice in which certification is offered and is also authorized to approve "organizations which certify lawyers as specialists in specialty fields in which the Supreme Court of South Carolina does not certify specialists" [Rule 408(b)(2)(G)]. Under this authority, South Carolina recognizes ABA accreditation of private certifying organizations in specialty areas that it does not directly certify. (11/2004)

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South Dakota

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

None

Private Certification Programs

Accounting Professional Liability
Business Bankruptcy
Civil Trial Advocacy
Consumer Bankruptcy
Creditors’ Rights
Criminal Law Trial Advocacy
DUI Defense Law
Elder Law
Estate Planning Law
Family Law Trial Advocacy
Juvenile Law - Child Welfare
Legal Professional Liability
Medical Professional Liability

Laurence J. Zastrow
Bar Counsel
State Bar of South Dakota
222 East Capitol
Pierre, SD 57501-2596
Phone: (605) 224-7554
Fax: (605) 224-0282

ABA Accreditation Recognized

Yes

Regulatory Scheme & Status: South Dakota Rule of Professional Conduct 7.4 designates the ABA as the appropriate regulatory authority to accredit certifying organizations and provides for lawyers’ communication of information regarding certification where the certification is awarded by an ABA accredited program. While lawyers certified by non-accredited programs may reference information regarding certification, they must include a disclaimer clearly stating the absence or denial of ABA accreditation [Rule 7.4(c)(2)]. (11/2004)

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Tennessee

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

Direct
Private Certification Approval

Private Certification Programs

Accounting Professional Liability
Business Bankruptcy
Civil Trial Advocacy
Consumer Bankruptcy
Creditors’ Rights
Criminal Law Trial Advocacy
Elder Law
Estate Planning Law
Family Law Trial Advocacy
Legal Professional Liability
Medical Professional Liability

David Shearon
Executive Director
TN Supreme Court Comm’n. on CLE & Specialization
Nashville City Center
221 Fourth Avenue North, Suite 300
Nashville, TN 37219
Phone: (615) 741-3096
Fax: (615) 532-2477
www.cletn.com

ABA Accreditation Recognized

Yes

Regulatory Scheme & Status: The Tennessee Supreme Court Commission on Continuing Legal Education and Specialization is authorized to establish programs and to accredit programs that certify lawyers in designated areas of law. Rule 7.4 provides that lawyers certified as specialists by the Supreme Court Commission may state, "Certified as a (Area of Practice) Specialist by the Tennessee Commission on Continuing Legal Education and Specialization." Lawyers certified by the Commission may also reference other certifications, provided that the certifying entity is recognized or accredited by the Commission and that the certifying organization is listed. To advertise as a certified specialist, an attorney must be certified by the Commission. Certification by a national agency alone is not sufficient. (11/2004)

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Texas

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

Direct Certification
Private Certification
Approval

Texas Board of Legal SpecializationCertification Programs
Administrative Law
Business Bankruptcy
Civil Appellate
Civil Trial
Commercial Real Estate
Consumer Bankruptcy
Consumer & Commercial Law
Criminal Law
Estate Planning & Probate
Family Law
Farm & Ranch Real Estate
Health Law
Immigration & Nationality
Juvenile Law
Labor & Employment
Oil, Gas & Mineral
Personal Injury Trial
Residential Real Estate
Tax
Worker's Compensation

Private Certification Programs
Business Bankruptcy
Civil Trial Advocacy
Consumer Bankruptcy
Creditors’ Rights
Criminal Trial Advocacy
Elder Law

Gary W. McNeil
Executive Director
Texas Board of Legal
Specialization
505 E. Huntland Drive
Suite 400
Austin, TX 78752
Phone: (512) 453-7266
(800) 204-2222 ext. 1454
Fax: (512) 453-7220
www.tbls.org

ABA Accreditation Recognized

No

Regulatory Scheme & Status: Rule 7.04 prohibits lawyers from advertising that they are certified except where the certification has been awarded by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization [TBLS] or an entity accredited by the TBLS [Rule 7.04(b)(2)]. Lawyers certified by the TBLS may state, "Board Certified, (Area of Specialization) – Texas Board of Legal Specialization" and lawyers certified through programs accredited by the TBLS may state, "Certified (Area of Specialization), (Name of Certifying Organization)" [Rule 7.04(b)(2)(i),(ii)]. Other specializations require a disclaimer either that the area advertised is "Not Certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization" or that "No designation has been made by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization for a Certificate of Special Competence in this area", whichever is appropriate. (11/2004)

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Utah

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

None

  Billy L. Walker
Senior Counsel
Utah State Bar
645 South 200 Street
Salt Lake City, UT 84111
Phone: (801) 297-7039
Fax: (801) 531-9912
www.utahbar.org

ABA Accreditation Recognized

No

Regulatory Scheme & Status: Utah Rule of Professional Conduct 7.4 prohibits lawyers from holding themselves out as specialists and forbids them from indicating that they have been certified unless such communications comply with state supreme court rules regulating lawyer specialization [Rule 7.4(b)]. To date, the Utah Supreme Court has not adopted rules to regulate lawyer specialization or certification. (11/2004)

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Vermont

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

None

Private Certification Programs

Accounting Professional Liability
Business Bankruptcy
Civil Trial Advocacy
Consumer Bankruptcy
Creditors’ Rights
Criminal Law Trial Advocacy
DUI Defense Law
Elder Law
Estate Planning Law
Family Law Trial Advocacy
Juvenile Law - Child Welfare
Legal Professional Liability
Medical Professional Liability

Robert Paolini
Executive Director
Vermont Bar Association
P.O. Box 100
Montpelier, VT 05601-0100
Phone: (802) 223-2020
Fax: (802) 223-1573
www.vtbar.org

ABA Accreditation Recognized

Yes

Regulatory Scheme & Status: Vermont has adopted Rule 7.4 of the Model Rules of Professional Conduct. Under this rule, lawyers are permitted to communicate information regarding specialty certification – without a disclaimer – where the certification is awarded by an organization whose program is accredited by the ABA. Such communications must include the name of the certifying entity. Lawyers certified by non-accredited programs must include the name of the certifying entity as well as a disclaimer stating that "there is no procedure in Vermont for approving certifying organizations" [Rule 7.4(c)]. (11/2004)

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Virginia

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

None

  James McCauley
Virginia State Bar
707 East Main Street
Suite 1500
Richmond, VA 23219-2800
Phone: (804) 775-0565
Fax: (804) 775-0501
mccauley@vsb.org
www.vsb.org

ABA Accreditation Recognized

No

Regulatory Scheme & Status: Virginia Rule of Professional Conduct 7.4 permits lawyers to communicate information regarding certification, provided that such communications include the name of the certifying organization and state that "there is no procedure in the Commonwealth of Virginia for approving certifying organizations" [Rule 7.4(d)]. (11/2004)

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Washington

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

None

  Robert Welden
General Counsel
Washington State Bar Assn.
2101 Fourth Avenue
4th Floor
Seattle, WA 98121-2330
Phone: (206) 727-8232
Fax: (206) 727-8325
bobw@wsba.org
www.wsba.org

ABA Accreditation Recognized

No

Regulatory Scheme & Status: State Rule of Professional Conduct 7.4 permits lawyers to use the terms "certified," "specialist," "expert" or similar terms to describe their qualifications. However, communications using the preceding terms to reference board certification must: (1) be truthful and verifiable; (2) not be misleading; (3) identify the entity which granted the certification; and (4) state that the Supreme Court of Washington does not recognize certification of specialties in the practice of law and the certificate, award or recognition is not a requirement to practice law in the state. (11/2004)

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West Virginia

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

None

  Thomas R. Tinder
Executive Director
West Virginia State Bar
2006 Kanawha Blvd. East
Charleston, WV 25311-2204
Phone: (304) 558-7993
Fax: (304) 558-2467
tindert@wvbar.org
www.wvbar.org

ABA Accreditation Recognized

No

Regulatory Scheme & Status: West Virginia Rule of Professional Conduct restricts claims of specialization to lawyers practicing in the fields of patent and admiralty law. The State Bar appointed a commission to explore a new approach to regulating specialization and board certification. The Board of Governors approved the Report and Recommendations, submitting them to the West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals. However, the Court did not approve the proposed lawyer specialization program. (11/2004)

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Wisconsin

Program Type

Specialty Areas

 

Contact Information

None

Private Certification Programs

Accounting Professional Liability
Business Bankruptcy
Civil Trial Advocacy
Consumer Bankruptcy
Creditors’ Rights
Criminal Law Trial Advocacy
DUI Defense Law
Elder Law
Estate Planning Law
Family Law Trial Advocacy
Juvenile Law - Child Welfare
Legal Professional Liability
Medical Professional Liability

George Brown
Executive Director
State Bar of Wisconsin
5203 Eastpark Blvd.
Madison, WI 53718-2101
Phone: (608) 257-3838
(800) 728-7788
Fax: (608) 257-5502
www.wisbar.org

ABA Accreditation Recognized

Yes

Regulatory Scheme & Status: Wisconsin Supreme Court Rule 20:7.4 permits lawyers to state or imply that they are "certified" or that they are "specialists" – or use words of similar import – where they have been certified "by an organization or authority whose specialty certification program is accredited by the American Bar Association" [SCR 7.4(c)]. (11/2004)

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Wyoming

Program Type

Specialty Areas

Contact Information

None

 

Rebecca A. Lewis
Chief Bar Counsel
Wyoming State Bar
500 Rendall Avenue
Cheyenne, WY 82001
Phone: (307) 632-9061
Fax: (307) 632-3737

www.wyomingbar.org

ABA Accreditation Recognized

No

Regulatory Scheme & Status: Wyoming Rule of Professional Conduct 7.2 requires lawyers to include the following disclaimer in communications concerning specialization and certification: "The Wyoming State Bar does not certify any lawyer as a specialist or expert. Anyone considering a lawyer should independently investigate the lawyer’s credentials and ability, and not rely upon advertisements or self-proclaimed expertise" [Rule 7.2(g)]. (11/2004)

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Last updated on: 11/06/2006

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