Top 11 Personal Injury Attorney Certifications

Certifications for a personal injury attorney are important in the job market because they demonstrate a certain level of expertise and knowledge within the practice area. They provide assurance to potential employers that the lawyer is qualified and experienced in handling cases related to personal injury law. Certifications also demonstrate an ongoing commitment to education and professional development, which can be beneficial when competing with other lawyers for jobs or promotions. Additionally, certifications may help attorneys stand out from the competition by showing their dedication to the field and proficiency in their practice area.

This article reviews the top certifications for Personal Injury Attorneys and explains how they can help further their careers.

What are Personal Injury Attorney Certifications?

Personal injury attorney certification is a way for attorneys to demonstrate their expertise in the area of personal injury law. It is an optional certification that indicates an attorney has completed additional training and passed a comprehensive exam on topics related to personal injury law. This certification is important because it helps potential clients know that the attorney they are considering hiring has the necessary knowledge and experience to handle their case effectively. It also serves as a sign of commitment and dedication to the field, showing that the attorney is willing to go above and beyond in order to remain up-to-date on the latest developments in personal injury law. This can help give clients greater confidence in their lawyer’s ability to successfully resolve their case.

Pro Tip: Make sure your personal injury attorney is certified in the state where you are filing your case. Different states have different regulations and laws governing personal injury cases, so having an attorney who is knowledgeable about the legal landscape in your state can help ensure a successful outcome.

Related: What does a Personal Injury Attorney do?

Top 11 Personal Injury Attorney Certifications

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

1. Board Certification in Civil Trial Law by the National Board of Trial Advocacy

Board Certification in Civil Trial Law by the National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA) is a voluntary process that recognizes attorneys who have demonstrated significant experience, knowledge, and skill in civil trial law. This certification is available to attorneys who practice in both state and federal courts.

In order to become certified, an attorney must meet certain criteria established by the NBTA. These criteria include having at least five years of experience practicing civil trial law, being a member in good standing with the bar association of all states where they are licensed to practice law, completing at least 50 hours of continuing legal education related to civil trial law within the last three years, and passing an examination administered by the NBTA.

The application process for board certification typically takes around six months from start to finish. The cost for applying for board certification varies depending on the state and can range anywhere from $500-$2,000.

Once an attorney has been approved for board certification, they will receive a certificate and be listed as a Board Certified Civil Trial Lawyer on the NBTA website. This certification is valid for five years after which time it must be renewed.

2. Certified Civil Trial Lawyer by the Florida Bar Association

Certified Civil Trial Lawyer by the Florida Bar Association is a voluntary certification program for lawyers who practice civil trial law in the state of Florida. The purpose of this certification is to recognize those attorneys who have achieved a high level of competency in civil trial law, and to assist the public in selecting qualified attorneys.

In order to be eligible for certification, an attorney must demonstrate substantial involvement as lead counsel in at least five civil trials over the past five years, pass a written examination, and be favorably evaluated by other lawyers and judges familiar with their work. The attorney must also have been a member of The Florida Bar for at least five years and have no disciplinary record.

The process of becoming certified typically takes between six months and one year. To begin the process, an attorney must submit an application along with supporting documentation such as transcripts from prior trials, letters of recommendation from other attorneys or judges, and evidence that they meet all other requirements. Once the application has been approved, the applicant will be scheduled to take a written exam which covers topics such as discovery procedures, evidence rules, jury instructions and more.

The cost to become certified varies depending on whether an applicant is already a member of The Florida Bar or not. For non-members, there is an initial fee of $1125 plus annual dues thereafter; members pay only annual dues which are currently set at $750 per year.

3. Certified Civil Pre-Trial Practice Advocate by the National Board of Legal Specialty Certification

Certified Civil Pre-Trial Practice Advocate by the National Board of Legal Specialty Certification (NBLSC) is a certification that recognizes attorneys who have achieved a high level of expertise in civil pre-trial practice. This certification is designed to help attorneys demonstrate their knowledge, experience, and skill in civil pre-trial practice.

To become certified as a Civil Pre-Trial Practice Advocate, an attorney must meet certain requirements established by the NBLSC. These include being admitted to practice law for at least five years, having substantial experience in civil pre-trial practice, and passing an examination administered by the NBLSC. The examination covers topics such as discovery, motion practice, trial preparation, and other areas of civil pre-trial law.

The process of becoming certified typically takes about six months from start to finish. During this time, an attorney must complete the application process and submit all required documents to the NBLSC. Once these materials are received and reviewed, the attorney will be notified if they are eligible to take the exam. After passing the exam, the attorney will receive their certification from the NBLSC.

The cost for becoming certified as a Civil Pre-Trial Practice Advocate varies depending on several factors such as location and type of exam taken (online or paper). Generally speaking, however, it can range anywhere from $500-$1,000 USD.

4. Certified Litigation Management Professional by the American Board of Professional Liability Attorneys

Certified Litigation Management Professional (CLMP) is a professional certification offered by the American Board of Professional Liability Attorneys (ABPLA). The CLMP certification is designed to recognize attorneys who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the management of litigation and dispute resolution.

The CLMP program consists of three components: an online course, an examination, and a peer review process. The online course covers topics such as case management, discovery, trial preparation, settlement negotiations, and post-trial motions. Upon completion of the course, candidates must pass an exam that assesses their knowledge and skills in litigation management. Finally, candidates must be approved by a panel of experienced litigators who review their qualifications and experience.

It typically takes approximately four months to complete the CLMP program. Candidates must first complete the online course within six weeks. Then they must pass the exam within two months after completing the online course. Finally, they must receive approval from the peer review panel within two months after passing the exam.

The cost for obtaining the CLMP certification varies depending on whether you are an ABPLA member or non-member. For ABPLA members, it costs $395 to register for the online course and take the exam; for non-members it costs $495. Additionally, there is a fee for submitting your application to be reviewed by the peer review panel; this fee is $100 for members and $150 for non-members.

5. Certified Medical Malpractice Attorney by the American Board of Professional Liability Attorneys

Certified Medical Malpractice Attorney by the American Board of Professional Liability Attorneys (ABPLA) is a certification that recognizes attorneys who have demonstrated knowledge and expertise in medical malpractice law. The ABPLA certification is granted to attorneys who have met rigorous criteria regarding their experience, education, and professional standing.

To become certified, an attorney must:

• Have at least five years of experience practicing medical malpractice law;
• Have successfully completed a minimum of 15 hours of continuing legal education in medical malpractice law;
• Be licensed to practice law in at least one state or federal jurisdiction;
• Demonstrate a high level of character and ethics; and
• Pass an examination administered by the ABPLA.

The process for becoming certified typically takes several months. After submitting an application, applicants must complete a background check and provide supporting documentation. Once approved, applicants are required to take the ABPLA’s Medical Malpractice Law Exam. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions that test an applicant’s knowledge of medical malpractice law. Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants are then eligible to be certified as a Certified Medical Malpractice Attorney by the ABPLA.

The cost for applying to become certified varies depending on the jurisdiction where the attorney is licensed. Generally speaking, it costs around $500-$1,000 USD to apply for certification with the ABPLA.

6. Certified Personal Injury Attorney by the American Board of Professional Liability Attorneys

The Certified Personal Injury Attorney (CPIA) certification is a credential awarded by the American Board of Professional Liability Attorneys (ABPLA). It is designed to recognize attorneys who have demonstrated a high degree of proficiency in the practice of personal injury law and are committed to upholding the highest standards of professional excellence. The CPIA certification is an important distinction for attorneys who specialize in personal injury law, as it signifies that they have achieved a level of expertise and knowledge that sets them apart from other practitioners.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain criteria, including:

• Being admitted to practice law in at least one U.S. jurisdiction;
• Having no disciplinary action taken against them by any state or federal court;
• Demonstrating a minimum number of years practicing personal injury law;
• Passing a comprehensive written examination covering all aspects of personal injury law; and
• Maintaining an active membership in good standing with ABPLA.

The process typically takes about six months to complete, though this can vary depending on how quickly applicants submit their paperwork and take their examinations. The cost for certification varies based on the applicant’s current membership status with ABPLA, but generally ranges from $400-$600.

7. Accredited Civil Trial Advocate by the National Board of Legal Specialty Certification

Accredited Civil Trial Advocate (ACTA) is a certification offered by the National Board of Legal Specialty Certification (NBLSC). It is a voluntary certification program that recognizes attorneys who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge, skill, and experience in civil trial advocacy.

To become an ACTA, an attorney must meet certain requirements including: being admitted to practice law for at least five years; having tried at least five civil jury trials to conclusion; completing at least 30 hours of continuing legal education in trial-related topics within the last three years; and passing a written examination administered by the NBLSC. The written examination consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as discovery, evidence, ethics, and trial procedure.

The process typically takes six months to complete. After submitting an application and meeting all eligibility requirements, applicants must pass the written exam. Once they have passed the exam, they will be notified by mail that they are now an Accredited Civil Trial Advocate.

The cost for becoming an ACTA varies depending on the state in which you are applying. Generally speaking, it costs around $1,000 to $2,000 to apply for certification. This fee covers the cost of the exam and other administrative fees associated with applying for certification.

8. Accredited Personal Injury Specialist by the American Bar Association

The Accredited Personal Injury Specialist (APIS) designation is a voluntary program offered by the American Bar Association (ABA). The APIS designation is designed to recognize attorneys who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and experience in the field of personal injury law.

In order to qualify for the APIS designation, an attorney must meet certain criteria, including:

• Have been practicing personal injury law for at least five years;
• Have handled at least 25 personal injury cases in the past five years;
• Have completed at least 30 hours of continuing legal education in personal injury law within the last three years; and
• Pass a written examination on personal injury law administered by the ABA.

The process of obtaining the APIS designation typically takes several months, depending on how quickly an attorney can complete all of the necessary requirements. Once an attorney has met all of the requirements, they will be notified by mail that they have been approved for the APIS designation.

The cost to obtain the APIS designation varies depending on which state you are applying from. Generally speaking, it costs between $100 and $200 to apply for and receive your APIS certification. This fee covers both application processing and examination fees.

9. Certified Appellate Practice Lawyer by the American Bar Association

Certified Appellate Practice Lawyer by the American Bar Association (ABA) is a voluntary certification program that recognizes attorneys who have demonstrated special competence in appellate practice. This certification is designed to help identify lawyers with the highest level of skill and knowledge in appellate practice, as well as to promote excellence in this area of law.

To become certified, an attorney must meet certain requirements, including passing a written examination and demonstrating substantial experience in the field. The ABA requires applicants to have at least five years of experience practicing appellate law or related areas, such as trial advocacy or legal research and writing. In addition, applicants must demonstrate their commitment to continuing education by completing at least 30 hours of approved courses within the past three years.

The application process for Certified Appellate Practice Lawyer involves submitting an application form, providing proof of experience and education qualifications, passing a written exam, and paying a fee. The fee for the program is $400 (as of 2021). Once all requirements are met, applicants will receive their certification from the ABA.

The entire process can take up to several months depending on how quickly all requirements are met. Applicants should plan accordingly if they wish to receive their certification in a timely manner.

10. Advanced Personal Injury Law Certification from The Florida Bar

Advanced Personal Injury Law Certification from The Florida Bar is a voluntary certification program that recognizes attorneys who have demonstrated special knowledge, skills, and proficiency in the area of personal injury law. This certification is available to any attorney who is a member of The Florida Bar and has been practicing law for at least five years.

In order to obtain certification, an attorney must complete a series of requirements which includes completing a minimum of 45 hours of continuing legal education (CLE) courses in the area of personal injury law within the last three years; passing an examination on the subject; providing references from other attorneys and judges attesting to their expertise in this field; and submitting documentation showing at least five years' experience as an active member of The Florida Bar.

The cost for Advanced Personal Injury Law Certification from The Florida Bar varies depending on the number of CLE courses taken. Generally, it costs between $400-$600 for all required coursework. Additionally, there is a one-time application fee of $150 that must be paid when applying for certification.

Once all requirements have been met and the application has been submitted, it typically takes about four months for The Florida Bar to review and approve or deny an applicant's request for certification.

11. Advanced Medical Malpractice Law Certification from The Florida Bar

Advanced Medical Malpractice Law Certification from The Florida Bar is a voluntary certification program that recognizes attorneys who have demonstrated special knowledge, skills, and proficiency in the area of medical malpractice law. This certification is available to lawyers who are Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Civil Trial Law or Civil Appellate Practice and have practiced law for at least five years. To become certified, an attorney must demonstrate substantial involvement in medical malpractice litigation over the course of their career.

The process to obtain Advanced Medical Malpractice Law Certification requires the applicant to complete an application packet which includes a detailed description of their experience in medical malpractice cases, references from other attorneys and judges familiar with the applicant's work, and a written examination. After submitting the application packet, applicants will be notified if they have been approved for certification.

The cost for Advanced Medical Malpractice Law Certification is $750 plus applicable taxes. It typically takes 6-8 weeks for an application to be reviewed and approved.

Do You Really Need a Personal Injury Attorney Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual situation. Generally speaking, a personal injury attorney certificate is not necessary to practice law in most states. However, depending on the nature of your practice and the state in which you are practicing, it may be beneficial to obtain a certificate from a reputable organization or university.

For example, if you are an attorney specializing in medical malpractice cases, then it may be beneficial for you to obtain a certificate in medical-legal studies from an accredited institution. This certificate can help demonstrate to potential clients that you have dedicated yourself to understanding the complexities of medical malpractice law. Additionally, having such a certification can also help increase your credibility with insurance companies and other legal professionals who work within the area of medical malpractice law.

In addition to demonstrating knowledge and expertise in a specialized area of law, obtaining a personal injury attorney certificate can also provide additional benefits such as access to resources and networks that may not be available otherwise. For instance, some organizations or universities offer continuing education courses specifically designed for attorneys working in the field of personal injury law. Such courses can help keep you up-to-date with current trends and best practices when handling these types of cases.

Overall, whether or not you need a personal injury attorney certificate is highly dependent on your particular circumstances and goals as an attorney. In some cases it may be helpful; however, it is ultimately up to you as to whether or not obtaining such certification is worth the time and effort involved.

Related: Personal Injury Attorney Resume Examples

FAQs About Personal Injury Attorney Certifications

1. What is a personal injury attorney certification?

A personal injury attorney certification is an additional credential that a lawyer can earn to demonstrate their expertise in the field of personal injury law. This type of certification is typically offered by legal organizations or bar associations and requires lawyers to meet certain criteria, such as taking continuing education courses and passing an examination.

2. How do I know if my personal injury attorney is certified?

You should ask your lawyer directly if they are certified in personal injury law. You can also look up their credentials on the state bar association’s website or contact the organization offering the certification for verification.

3. Is a personal injury attorney certification necessary?

A personal injury attorney certification is not necessary to practice law, but it can be beneficial for clients looking for an experienced and knowledgeable lawyer who specializes in this area of law.

4. What are the benefits of hiring a certified personal injury attorney?

Hiring a certified personal injury attorney can give you peace of mind knowing that your lawyer has specific knowledge and experience in this area of law, which may help maximize your chances of obtaining favorable results from your case. Additionally, certifications provide assurance that your lawyer has met certain criteria and standards for practicing in this field.

5. Are there any costs associated with getting a personal injury attorney certification?

Yes, there may be costs associated with obtaining a personal injury attorney certification depending on the organization offering it and what their requirements are for eligibility. Generally speaking, fees may include application fees, exam fees, materials fees, and/or annual dues for membership in the organization offering the certification program.