Top 11 District Attorney Certifications

Certifications for a district attorney in the job market are important because they demonstrate a level of expertise and mastery of the law that can help a DA stand out from other candidates. These certifications signify to potential employers that a DA has achieved an advanced understanding of legal principles and has demonstrated proficiency in their role as a prosecutor. This can be especially beneficial when seeking employment with larger, more competitive firms or government agencies. Additionally, certifications may allow DAs to earn higher salaries, receive promotions, and gain access to better resources and training opportunities.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for District Attorneys and explain how they can contribute to a district attorney's career.

What are District Attorney Certifications?

District attorney certification is a process through which prosecutors, usually in the United States, are certified to practice in their respective jurisdictions. This certification is typically granted by the state bar association, and it involves passing an exam that covers the state’s criminal laws and procedures. The purpose of district attorney certification is to ensure that prosecutors have a thorough understanding of the law and are prepared to effectively represent the interests of their clients. In addition to providing assurance that prosecutors are adequately trained, district attorney certification also helps protect citizens from unethical practices or incompetence by ensuring that only qualified individuals are representing them in court. It also serves as a way for prosecutors to demonstrate their commitment to upholding justice and protecting the rights of those accused of crimes.

Pro Tip: To become a district attorney, you must complete a rigorous certification process. Make sure to research the specific requirements of your state and prepare early for any required exams or other qualifications. Additionally, make sure to gain as much relevant experience as possible in order to make yourself a competitive candidate.

Related: What does a District Attorney do?

Top 11 District Attorney Certifications

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

1. Certified as a District Attorney by the National Association of District Attorneys

Certified as a District Attorney by the National Association of District Attorneys (NADA) is a professional certification program that recognizes attorneys who have demonstrated excellence in their practice of criminal law. The certification requires applicants to demonstrate knowledge and proficiency in the areas of criminal law, ethics, trial practice, and other related topics.

To become certified as a District Attorney by the NADA, an attorney must first meet certain eligibility requirements. These include being admitted to practice law in at least one state or federal jurisdiction; having practiced criminal law for at least five years; and having completed at least 15 hours of continuing legal education credits related to criminal law within the past three years. Once these requirements are met, an applicant can submit an application for certification to the NADA.

The application process includes submitting a written statement of qualifications and experience, providing references from other attorneys who can attest to your qualifications, submitting proof of continuing legal education credits, and passing a written examination administered by the NADA. Once all requirements are met, the applicant will be awarded Certified as a District Attorney status from the NADA.

The cost to become certified as a District Attorney by the NADA varies depending on the state where you are practicing. Generally speaking, it costs between $500-$1,000 USD to apply for certification with additional fees for taking the exam and any necessary continuing legal education courses required for certification. It typically takes four to six months from start to finish to complete the application process and receive your Certified as a District Attorney designation from the NADA.

2. Certified in Criminal Law and Procedure by the American Bar Association

Certified in Criminal Law and Procedure by the American Bar Association (ABA) is a professional certification program that recognizes attorneys who demonstrate expertise in criminal law and procedure. It is designed to provide lawyers with an additional credential that demonstrates their commitment to excellence in the practice of criminal law.

The certification process involves passing a written examination, completing a minimum of 30 hours of continuing legal education credits related to criminal law and procedure, and having at least five years of experience as an attorney practicing criminal law. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions on topics such as constitutional law, evidence, sentencing, and trial practice.

To become certified, attorneys must submit an application to the ABA's National Conference of Specialization, pay an application fee of $250, and pass the written examination. After passing the exam, applicants must also complete 30 hours of continuing legal education credits related to criminal law and procedure within three years prior to applying for certification.

The cost for taking the exam is $595 for members of the ABA or $795 for non-members. Additionally, there may be fees associated with obtaining continuing legal education credits depending on where they are obtained from.

3. Certified in Trial Advocacy by the National College of District Attorneys

Certified in Trial Advocacy (CTA) by the National College of District Attorneys (NCDA) is a professional certification program that provides attorneys with the specialized knowledge and skills needed to become effective trial advocates. The program consists of three parts: an online course, an on-site trial advocacy workshop, and a final exam.

The online course consists of five modules covering topics such as opening statements, direct examination, cross-examination, closing arguments, and jury instructions. The course includes video lectures from experienced trial lawyers, interactive exercises, and practice exams. This portion of the program can be completed in approximately six weeks.

The on-site workshop is held at various locations throughout the United States. During this two-day workshop, participants will receive hands-on training from experienced trial lawyers on topics such as witness preparation and courtroom demeanor.

The final exam is administered at the end of the workshop. It consists of multiple choice questions based on material covered during the online course and workshop. Participants must pass this exam in order to receive their CTA certification.

The cost for the CTA program varies depending on location but typically ranges from $1,500 to $2,000 USD.

4. Certified as an Expert Witness in Criminal Law and Procedure by the American Bar Association

Certified as an Expert Witness in Criminal Law and Procedure by the American Bar Association (ABA) is a certification program that recognizes attorneys who have demonstrated expertise in criminal law and procedure. The certification requires applicants to meet certain criteria, including having at least five years of experience practicing criminal law, passing a comprehensive written exam, and completing continuing legal education courses.

The ABA's certification process typically takes several months to complete. To begin the process, applicants must submit an application packet that includes their resume or curriculum vitae; a statement of their qualifications as an expert witness; and letters of recommendation from three members of the criminal defense bar. After submitting the application packet, applicants are required to pass a written exam that covers topics such as criminal law, evidence, ethics, trial practice, and sentencing. Following successful completion of the exam, applicants must then complete at least 12 hours of approved continuing legal education courses related to criminal law and procedure within two years of applying for certification.

The cost for obtaining ABA Certified as an Expert Witness in Criminal Law and Procedure varies depending on the specific requirements for each applicant. Generally speaking, however, applicants can expect to pay fees associated with submitting an application packet ($100), taking the written exam ($250), and completing continuing legal education courses (typically $200-$300).

5. Certified in Evidence Law and Procedure by the American Bar Association

Certified in Evidence Law and Procedure by the American Bar Association (ABA) is a certification program that provides lawyers with an opportunity to demonstrate their expertise in evidence law and procedure. The certification is designed to recognize attorneys who have achieved a high level of proficiency in this area of the law.

The program requires applicants to complete a comprehensive examination, which covers topics such as the Federal Rules of Evidence, state evidence codes, trial practice, and evidentiary privileges. Applicants must also submit documentation demonstrating their experience in evidence law and procedure, including at least five years of legal practice or teaching experience.

The program typically takes six months to complete. After submitting an application, applicants will receive instructions on how to register for the exam. The exam fee is $500 USD. Upon successful completion of the examination, applicants will be awarded the ABA Certified in Evidence Law and Procedure credential.

6. Certified in Constitutional Law and Procedure by the American Bar Association

Certified in Constitutional Law and Procedure by the American Bar Association (ABA) is a certification program that recognizes attorneys who have achieved a high level of expertise in constitutional law and procedure. The certification is awarded to attorneys who demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of constitutional law and its application to the practice of law.

The certification process involves an examination, which consists of multiple-choice questions and essay questions. The exam covers topics such as constitutional history, structure, powers, rights, and privileges; federalism; separation of powers; judicial review; civil liberties; civil rights; due process; equal protection; freedom of speech and press; religion clauses; privacy rights; voting rights; immigration law and policy; international human rights law and treaties; state constitutions and their interpretation by state courts.

The exam takes approximately four hours to complete. It is administered twice a year at designated testing sites throughout the United States. The cost for taking the exam is $250.

To become certified in Constitutional Law and Procedure by the ABA, you must meet certain eligibility requirements. These include: being admitted to practice law in any U.S. jurisdiction for at least five years prior to applying for certification, completing at least 15 hours of continuing legal education credits in constitutional law within the three years prior to applying for certification, passing the written examination with a score of 70 percent or higher, submitting an application including references from two practicing lawyers familiar with your work in constitutional law, submitting proof that you are currently engaged in active practice of constitutional law or teaching constitutional law as your primary profession, having no disciplinary action taken against you during your legal career, and paying all applicable fees associated with the certification process.

Once certified, attorneys may use the designation “Certified in Constitutional Law & Procedure” after their name when providing legal services or engaging in public activities related to constitutional matters.

7. Certified in Appellate Practice and Procedure by the National College of District Attorneys

Certified in Appellate Practice and Procedure by the National College of District Attorneys (NCDA) is a certification program designed to recognize attorneys who have achieved a high level of proficiency in appellate practice and procedure. The certification is offered through the NCDA, which is an organization that provides educational programs and resources for prosecutors around the country.

The certification requires applicants to complete a comprehensive training program in appellate practice and procedure. The program consists of two parts: an online course and a two-day seminar. The online course covers topics such as the rules of appellate procedure, appellate jurisdiction, briefing techniques, oral argument strategies, and more. The two-day seminar includes lectures from experienced appellate practitioners on topics such as effective legal writing, persuasive legal arguments, and ethical considerations in appellate practice.

To be eligible for the certification, applicants must be licensed attorneys with at least three years of experience practicing law. Applicants must also pass an examination administered by the NCDA that tests their knowledge of appellate practice and procedure. Once certified, attorneys are required to complete continuing education credits every year to maintain their certification status.

The cost of the certification program varies depending on whether you take the online course or attend the two-day seminar in person. The online course costs $695 while attending the two-day seminar in person costs $1,095 plus travel expenses if applicable.

Overall, obtaining Certified in Appellate Practice and Procedure by the National College of District Attorneys can take anywhere from one month to several months depending on how quickly you complete your training requirements and pass your exam.

8. Certified in Professional Responsibility and Ethics by the National College of District Attorneys

Certified in Professional Responsibility and Ethics by the National College of District Attorneys (NCDA) is a certification program designed to recognize attorneys who have demonstrated a commitment to ethical practice and professional responsibility. The certification is awarded to attorneys who have successfully completed an online course on professional responsibility and ethics, as well as passed an exam that tests their knowledge of the material.

The online course consists of six modules, each focusing on a different aspect of professional responsibility and ethics. The modules cover topics such as the ABA Model Rules of Professional Conduct, attorney-client privilege, conflicts of interest, and ethical decision making. The course takes approximately 12 hours to complete.

To get certified, attorneys must first complete the online course. After completing the course, they must then pass an exam that tests their knowledge of the material covered in the course. Once they have passed the exam, they will be awarded with a certificate from NCDA recognizing them as Certified in Professional Responsibility and Ethics.

The cost for this certification program varies depending on whether you are an NCDA member or not. For non-members, it costs $295 for access to all six modules plus one attempt at passing the exam. For NCDA members, it costs $195 for access to all six modules plus one attempt at passing the exam.

9. Certified as a Juvenile Prosecutor by the National College of District Attorneys

Certified as a Juvenile Prosecutor by the National College of District Attorneys (NCDA) is a certification program that recognizes prosecutors who demonstrate expertise in prosecuting juvenile cases. It is designed to provide prosecutors with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively handle juvenile cases, while protecting the rights of juveniles and their families. The certification process involves completing an online course, passing a written exam, and submitting an application for review by the NCDA Certification Committee.

The online course covers topics such as juvenile law, court procedures, evidence rules, sentencing guidelines, diversion programs, and more. The course takes approximately 10-15 hours to complete and must be completed within one year of enrollment. Upon successful completion of the course, applicants are required to pass a written exam with a score of 80% or higher.

Once an applicant has successfully completed both the online course and written exam, they must submit an application for review by the NCDA Certification Committee. The application requires information about the applicant’s background in juvenile prosecution including years of experience, number of trials handled as lead counsel in juvenile cases, any specialized training received related to juvenile prosecution, and any other relevant information. The application also requires two letters of recommendation from individuals familiar with the applicant’s work in juvenile prosecution.

The cost for this certification program is $500 USD which includes all fees associated with taking the online course and written exam as well as submitting an application for review.

10. Certified as a Victim Advocate by the National College of District Attorneys

Certified as a Victim Advocate by the National College of District Attorneys (NCDA) is a professional credential for individuals who work in the field of victim advocacy. The certification recognizes professionals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in providing services to victims of crime.

The certification process requires applicants to complete an online application, submit official transcripts, provide references, and pass a written exam. The exam covers topics such as victim rights, legal issues, and crisis intervention. Applicants must also complete an approved 40-hour training program that covers topics such as trauma-informed care, cultural competency, and ethical considerations.

The cost of the certification varies depending on the training program chosen by the applicant. The NCDA offers several approved programs ranging from $200-$500.

Once all requirements are met, applicants will receive their Certified Victim Advocate credential within 4-6 weeks.

11. Certified in Forensic Science and Evidence Collection Procedures by the National College of District Attorneys

Certified in Forensic Science and Evidence Collection Procedures by the National College of District Attorneys (NCDA) is a certification program designed to provide criminal justice professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to properly collect, document, and analyze evidence from crime scenes. The program consists of three courses: Introduction to Forensic Science, Crime Scene Investigation, and Evidence Collection Procedures. Each course is approximately 40 hours in length.

To become certified, applicants must complete all three courses and pass an exam. Upon successful completion of the program, participants will receive a certificate from NCDA that verifies their knowledge in forensic science and evidence collection procedures. The cost for the entire certification program is $750 USD.

Do You Really Need a District Attorney Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual's specific situation. For some, a district attorney certificate may be necessary in order to obtain certain types of employment or for other professional reasons. For others, a district attorney certificate may not be required at all.

A district attorney certificate is issued by the local district attorney's office and serves as proof that an individual has successfully completed a criminal background check. It is important to note that although having a district attorney certificate can be beneficial in certain circumstances, it does not guarantee employment or admission into any particular program.

A district attorney certificate may be necessary if you are applying for a job that requires one or if you are attempting to enter into a professional licensing program. In such cases, having the proper credentials can give you an edge over other applicants who do not have them. Additionally, some states require individuals who wish to practice law in their state to possess a valid district attorney certificate before they can do so.

On the other hand, if you are simply looking for general employment opportunities or trying to gain admission into college programs, then having a district attorney certificate is likely unnecessary. In these situations, employers and educational institutions will typically only require more standard forms of identification such as driver’s licenses and passports for verification purposes.

Ultimately it is up to each individual to determine whether or not they need a district attorney certificate based on their specific circumstances and goals.

Related: District Attorney Resume Examples

FAQs About District Attorney Certifications

1. What is a district attorney certification?

Answer: A district attorney certification is a form of recognition that is granted to attorneys who have successfully completed specialized training and demonstrated proficiency in the area of criminal law. The certification is typically provided by the state's office of the attorney general or by a local bar association.

2. Who can become certified as a district attorney?

Answer: To be eligible for district attorney certification, an individual must be an active member of the bar in good standing and have at least three years of experience practicing criminal law. Additionally, they must demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in criminal proceedings through successful completion of an approved training program.

3. How long does it take to receive district attorney certification?

Answer: The amount of time required to obtain district attorney certification varies depending on the specific requirements set forth by the state or local bar association. Generally, it takes between six months and one year to complete all necessary steps for obtaining certification.

4. What are the benefits of becoming a certified district attorney?

Answer: Benefits may include increased job opportunities and higher salaries, as well as greater respect from colleagues, judges, and clients due to the distinguished status associated with being certified by a reputable organization. Furthermore, having this credential may provide attorneys with additional credibility when representing clients in criminal court proceedings.

5. Is there an exam required for district attorney certification?

Answer: Yes, most states require applicants to pass an exam in order to become certified as a district attorney. This exam typically covers topics such as constitutional law, criminal procedure, evidence rules, trial practice and procedure, sentencing laws and guidelines, ethics rules governing lawyers’ conduct in courtrooms, among other areas related to criminal law practice.