Top 10 Defense Attorney Certifications

Certifications are important for defense attorneys in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge that can be beneficial to employers. Certifications also signal to potential employers that a defense attorney has advanced training and experience, which can make them more attractive candidates for positions. Additionally, certifications can provide an edge over other applicants who may not have the same qualifications or experience. Finally, certifications can help build credibility and trust with clients, which is essential for any successful defense attorney.

This article reviews the top certifications for Defense Attorneys and explains how they can help boost a defense attorney's career.

What are Defense Attorney Certifications?

Defense attorney certification is a process by which an individual attorney can receive recognition from a professional organization as having specialized knowledge and expertise in criminal defense. This certification allows attorneys to demonstrate their commitment to the highest standards of professional conduct and ethical practice.

The certification process typically involves passing an examination, completing continuing legal education courses, meeting experience requirements, and submitting references from peers. By obtaining this certification, attorneys are able to demonstrate that they possess the necessary skills and qualifications for providing effective criminal defense representation.

This type of certification can benefit both defense attorneys and clients alike. For attorneys, it provides increased credibility among other professionals in the field, furthering their reputation as knowledgeable lawyers who specialize in criminal defense. For clients, it serves as assurance that they have chosen an attorney with the experience needed to successfully handle their case. Additionally, it may also provide access to certain resources and specialized knowledge that may not be available through other lawyers.

Pro Tip: If you are considering becoming a defense attorney, make sure to research and understand the certification requirements in your state. Different states have different criteria for certification and some may require additional education or experience before you can practice defense law.

Related: What does a Defense Attorney do?

Top 10 Defense Attorney Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Defense Attorneys today.

1. Certified Criminal Trial Attorney

Certified Criminal Trial Attorney is a certification offered by the National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA). It is a voluntary certification that recognizes attorneys who have demonstrated excellence in criminal trial practice. To become certified, an attorney must meet certain criteria, including having at least five years of experience in criminal law, passing an NBTA-administered exam and completing continuing legal education requirements. The certification process takes approximately six months to complete.

To get the Certified Criminal Trial Attorney designation, an attorney must submit an application with documentation of their qualifications and experience to the NBTA. The application fee is $500 and there are additional fees for taking the exam and for any necessary continuing legal education courses. Once approved, the attorney must pass the NBTA’s written examination on criminal trial practice. Upon successful completion of the exam, the attorney will be awarded the Certified Criminal Trial Attorney designation.

2. Certified Appellate Lawyer

Certified Appellate Lawyer is a professional certification program that recognizes attorneys who have demonstrated a high level of skill, experience, and knowledge in the practice of appellate law. To become certified as an appellate lawyer, an attorney must pass a rigorous examination administered by the National Board of Legal Specialty Certification (NBLSC).

The process to become certified as an appellate lawyer typically takes approximately one year to complete. It begins with submitting an application to the NBLSC, which includes providing proof of legal education and experience in appellate law. Once approved, applicants must then take the NBLSC's written examination. The exam covers topics such as civil procedure, constitutional law, evidence, federal jurisdiction and procedure, state jurisdiction and procedure, legal research and writing skills related to appellate practice.

After passing the written exam, applicants must then submit to a peer review process conducted by members of the NBLSC's Appellate Lawyer Certification Committee. This review process involves interviewing current or former clients; obtaining letters from other attorneys or judges; and providing additional information about their practice. Once this review is complete and all requirements are met, applicants will be awarded certification as an Appellate Lawyer.

The cost for becoming certified as an Appellate Lawyer varies depending on where you live and how much work needs to be done in order to meet all requirements. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $2,000 - $4,000 USD for all fees associated with the application process.

3. National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA) Certification

The National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA) is a professional certification program for attorneys who specialize in trial advocacy and litigation. It is designed to recognize attorneys who have achieved a high level of competence in the practice of trial law. The NBTA provides attorneys with a way to demonstrate their expertise in the courtroom, and it can be used as an important credential when seeking employment or promotions.

To become certified by the NBTA, an attorney must meet certain educational requirements, pass an examination, and demonstrate substantial experience in the practice of trial law. The educational requirements include completing at least 24 hours of continuing legal education courses related to trial advocacy within the three years prior to applying for certification. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as evidence, civil procedure, criminal procedure, ethics, and jury instructions. To demonstrate substantial experience in the practice of trial law, applicants must provide evidence that they have handled at least 50 trials as lead counsel over the course of their career.

The process typically takes several months to complete and can cost anywhere from $500-$1000 depending on the state where you are applying for certification. In addition to the application fee, there may also be additional fees associated with obtaining transcripts or other documents needed for your application.

Overall, obtaining NBTA Certification is a great way for experienced attorneys to demonstrate their expertise in trial advocacy and litigation. It can help them stand out among other attorneys when seeking employment or promotions and can provide them with additional credibility when representing clients in court proceedings.

4. American College of Trial Lawyers (ACTL) Certification

The American College of Trial Lawyers (ACTL) is an invitation-only organization composed of the best of the trial bar from the United States and Canada. The College's mission is to uphold and improve the standards of trial practice, professionalism, ethics, and the administration of justice.

To become a Fellow in the ACTL, one must first be nominated by a current member. After being nominated, potential Fellows must complete an extensive application process that includes providing detailed information about their professional experience, qualifications, and character. Once approved by the Board of Regents or Executive Committee, they are then invited to become Fellows.

The certification process typically takes several months to complete and can vary depending on how quickly a potential Fellow completes their application and provides all necessary documents. The cost for becoming a Fellow in the ACTL varies depending on region and type of membership but generally ranges between $1,000 to $2,500 USD.

5. American Board of Professional Liability Attorneys (ABPLA) Certification

The American Board of Professional Liability Attorneys (ABPLA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the highest standards of professional responsibility and ethical conduct for attorneys practicing in the fields of medical malpractice, legal malpractice, and other professional liability matters. The ABPLA certification is a voluntary process that requires an attorney to demonstrate knowledge, experience, and commitment to excellence in the practice of professional liability law.

The ABPLA certification process takes approximately six months from start to finish. The first step is for an attorney to submit an application with proof of their qualifications, which includes evidence of at least five years of experience in the field of professional liability law. Once approved by the ABPLA board, applicants must then pass a comprehensive written examination on topics related to professional liability law. After passing the exam, applicants must complete a minimum number of continuing legal education credits in areas such as medical malpractice or legal malpractice law. Finally, applicants must submit letters of recommendation from three attorneys who have worked with them professionally or have observed them in action.

The cost for becoming certified by the ABPLA varies depending on the jurisdiction where you are seeking certification. Generally speaking, most jurisdictions charge between $1,000 and $2,000 for application fees and exam fees combined. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with obtaining letters of recommendation or completing continuing legal education courses.

6. National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (NACDL) Certification

The National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (NACDL) Certification is a voluntary program that recognizes criminal defense attorneys who have demonstrated significant experience and expertise in the field. This certification is intended to provide assurance to potential clients that they are dealing with a highly qualified attorney who has been recognized for their commitment to excellence in criminal defense practice.

In order to become certified, an attorney must have at least five years of full-time practice as a criminal defense lawyer, be in good standing with the bar association, and demonstrate substantial involvement in criminal defense work. The attorney must also pass an exam administered by NACDL which covers topics such as constitutional law, evidence, trial practice, sentencing guidelines and more.

It typically takes two to three months to complete the application process and take the exam. Once approved, the certification is valid for three years before it must be renewed.

The cost of applying for NACDL Certification varies depending on the state but generally ranges from $200-$400.

7. American Bar Association (ABA) Certified Criminal Law Specialist

The American Bar Association (ABA) Certified Criminal Law Specialist is a certification program that recognizes attorneys who have demonstrated expertise in criminal law. It is the only criminal law certification program accredited by the ABA.

To become an ABA Certified Criminal Law Specialist, an attorney must pass a comprehensive examination, demonstrate substantial involvement in criminal law, and obtain favorable peer reviews from other lawyers and judges. The exam covers all areas of criminal law including constitutional law, evidence, trial practice, sentencing, and post-conviction remedies.

It typically takes at least three years to complete the requirements for ABA Certification as a Criminal Law Specialist. During this time period, an attorney must demonstrate substantial involvement in criminal law by completing at least 45 hours of continuing legal education credits related to criminal law topics and have practiced in the field of criminal law for at least five years. In addition to these requirements, applicants must also submit favorable peer reviews from other lawyers and judges who can attest to their knowledge and experience in the field of criminal law.

The cost for taking the exam varies depending on the state where it is taken; however, it typically costs between $400-$600 to take the exam plus any additional fees associated with submitting applications or obtaining peer reviews.

8. National Institute for Trial Advocacy (NITA) Certification

The National Institute for Trial Advocacy (NITA) is a nonprofit organization that provides training and certification to trial attorneys. NITA Certification is a prestigious credential that signifies an attorney’s commitment to excellence in the practice of trial advocacy.

To obtain NITA Certification, an attorney must complete a rigorous training program that consists of three parts: classroom instruction, practical exercises, and assessment. Classroom instruction typically takes place over two to three days and covers topics such as the fundamentals of trial advocacy, effective questioning techniques, persuasive argumentation, jury selection strategies, and more. Practical exercises involve role-playing scenarios in which participants act out various courtroom roles and situations. Assessment includes written exams as well as performance evaluations conducted by experienced NITA faculty members.

In total, the process of obtaining NITA Certification typically takes about four weeks from start to finish. The cost of the program varies depending on the location, but generally ranges from $2,500-$3,500 per person.

NITA Certification is highly sought after by attorneys seeking to demonstrate their proficiency in trial advocacy and gain recognition among their peers. It is also beneficial for those who are looking to advance their careers or expand their practice areas into litigation or other court proceedings.

9. International Academy of Trial Lawyers (IATL) Certification

The International Academy of Trial Lawyers (IATL) Certification is a voluntary certification program that recognizes attorneys who have demonstrated excellence in the practice of trial law. The IATL was founded in 1954 and is dedicated to promoting the highest standards of ethical conduct, professional competence, and civility among its members.

To become certified by the IATL, an attorney must have been practicing for at least five years and must have tried at least ten jury trials to verdict or judgment. The attorney must also demonstrate substantial involvement in complex civil litigation, be recommended by two current IATL members, and pass a comprehensive written examination covering all aspects of trial practice.

The process typically takes about six months from the time an application is submitted until certification is granted. The cost for certification is $1,500 for attorneys who are already members of the IATL, and $2,500 for non-members.

10. American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML) Certification

The American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML) is a professional organization dedicated to the promotion of excellence in the practice of family law. AAML Certification is a voluntary credential that recognizes attorneys who have achieved a high level of experience, knowledge, and skill in matrimonial law. The certification process takes approximately three years to complete and involves an extensive application process, peer review, and successful completion of a written examination.

To become certified by the AAML, applicants must meet certain criteria including:

• Being an active member in good standing with the AAML for at least five years;
• Submitting letters of recommendation from three current AAML members;
• Demonstrating substantial involvement in matrimonial law;
• Passing a comprehensive written examination on family law topics; and
• Demonstrating character and fitness to practice law.

Once accepted into the program, applicants must pay an initial fee as well as annual dues to maintain their certification status. The cost varies depending on where you live and your membership type (regular or associate). For example, regular members living in California would pay $1,400 for the initial fee plus $1,000 annually for dues. Associate members living in California would pay $700 for the initial fee plus $500 annually for dues.

Do You Really Need a Defense Attorney Certificate?

The short answer is yes. A defense attorney certificate is a professional credential that certifies that an individual has met all the requirements necessary to practice as a defense attorney in their jurisdiction. It is important to have this credential because it demonstrates a higher level of knowledge and experience in defending clients, which can be beneficial when it comes time to negotiate with prosecutors or judges.

Having a defense attorney certificate can also help you get better job opportunities and higher pay, since employers know that you are qualified to represent clients in court and can handle complex cases. It also helps build trust between lawyer and client, which can make the legal process run smoother for both parties.

Finally, having a defense attorney certificate shows potential clients that you are committed to providing quality legal services. Clients may view attorneys who have these credentials as more knowledgeable and experienced than those who do not have them. This gives them confidence that their case will be handled competently and professionally, which increases the chances of success in court.

In summary, obtaining a defense attorney certificate is an important step for anyone wishing to pursue a career as a criminal defense lawyer. It demonstrates expertise and commitment to the profession, while also being beneficial for job prospects and earning potential.

Related: Defense Attorney Resume Examples

FAQs About Defense Attorney Certifications

1. What are the requirements to become a certified defense attorney?

Answer: In order to become a certified defense attorney, an individual must have completed law school and passed the bar exam in their state, as well as have at least three years of experience practicing criminal defense law. They must also demonstrate knowledge of the state's criminal laws and procedures through written or oral examination administered by the state bar association.

2. How long does it take to become a certified defense attorney?

Answer: The amount of time required to become a certified defense attorney varies depending on the state in which you are applying for certification. Generally, it takes anywhere from two to five years of practice before an individual is eligible for certification.

3. How much does it cost to become a certified defense attorney?

Answer: The cost of becoming a certified defense attorney varies depending on the state in which you are applying for certification. Generally, there is an application fee and additional fees associated with taking any necessary examinations or courses required for certification.

4. What benefits do I get from becoming a certified defense attorney?

Answer: Becoming a certified defense attorney can offer many benefits including increased credibility with clients and potential employers, access to professional development opportunities, and increased earning potential due to higher rates charged for services rendered by certified attorneys.

5. Are there any continuing education requirements for maintaining my certification as a defense attorney?

Answer: Yes, most states require that attorneys maintain their certifications by completing continuing education credits each year in order to stay up-to-date on changes in criminal laws and procedures in their jurisdiction.