Why the program exists

The Florida Bar's Board Certification program was created at the direction of the Supreme Court of Florida to help the public make informed decisions when selecting a lawyer. While every Florida-licensed attorney can advertise, only certified attorneys are permitted to identify themselves as "Florida Bar Board Certified" or as a "specialist."

Board Certification is the only program officially recognized by The Florida Bar to identify lawyers with special knowledge, skills, and proficiency in particular areas of law. Civil Trial certification was approved by the Supreme Court of Florida in 1982.

What's required to qualify

To become Board Certified as a Civil Trial Specialist, an attorney must:

  • Have substantial trial experience as lead counsel, including a specific number of contested civil trials before juries
  • Pass peer review — confidential evaluations from other lawyers and judges who can attest to the attorney's competence, ethics, and professionalism
  • Complete at least 50 hours of continuing legal education in civil trial practice within the preceding three years
  • Pass a rigorous written examination demonstrating knowledge, skills, and proficiency in civil trial law

And it has to be renewed

Board Certification is valid for five years. To remain certified, an attorney must continue practicing law, attend Florida Bar–approved continuing legal education courses, and meet renewal requirements similar to the original certification. It is not a credential earned once and held forever.

Why this matters when hiring a lawyer

The simplest way to think about it: Florida Bar Board Certification is to a lawyer what board certification is to a doctor. It is a public, formal statement that the attorney has demonstrated specialized competence — verified by their peers and by examination — in their field.

At Ruggiero & Lagios, both partners are Board Certified Civil Trial Specialists. William C. Ruggiero has held the certification continuously since 1998. Vanessa Lagios is also Board Certified and a member of the American Board of Trial Advocates.

Learn more

The Florida Bar maintains a public list of Board Certified attorneys at floridabar.org. You can verify any lawyer's certification status there.