Top 11 Trial Attorney Certifications

Certifications for a trial attorney are important in the job market because they demonstrate to employers that an attorney has achieved a certain level of expertise and experience. They also show that the attorney is up-to-date on the latest laws and regulations pertaining to their practice area. In addition, certifications can help an attorney stand out from other applicants by providing evidence of specialized knowledge. Finally, certifications can provide additional credibility in courtrooms and lead to more successful outcomes for clients.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Trial Attorneys and explain how they can help enhance a trial attorney's career.

What are Trial Attorney Certifications?

Trial attorney certification is a voluntary program that certifies attorneys who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge, skill, and experience in the area of trial practice. It is offered by certain organizations, such as the National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA). By obtaining this certification, attorneys demonstrate to potential clients that they possess an advanced level of expertise in the courtroom and are committed to ethical practices.

The NBTA requires applicants to meet strict criteria in order to be eligible for certification. This includes having at least five years of trial experience, passing a comprehensive written examination, participating in continuing legal education courses related to trial practice, and completing an intensive peer review process.

Once certified, attorneys are required to maintain their credentials by meeting continuing education requirements and abiding by the NBTA's Code of Professional Responsibility. The NBTA also provides free online resources such as sample questions from the certification exam and educational materials related to trial advocacy.

By obtaining trial attorney certification, attorneys can signal to prospective clients that they have been recognized for their expertise in trial practice and are dedicated to providing quality legal services. This can help them stand out from other lawyers in the field and attract more clients. Additionally, it may lead to increased job opportunities or even higher pay due to the specialized skillset associated with this certification.

Pro Tip: When considering trial attorney certification, make sure to research the requirements and standards of the certifying body to ensure that you meet all of the criteria for certification. This will help to ensure that your certification is valid and recognized by the legal community.

Related: What does a Trial Attorney do?

Top 11 Trial Attorney Certifications

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

1. Board Certified in Trial Advocacy by the National Board of Trial Advocacy

Board Certified in Trial Advocacy by the National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA) is a credential that recognizes attorneys who have demonstrated a high level of skill and experience in the practice of trial advocacy. The certification is granted to attorneys who have met rigorous standards set by the NBTA, including substantial trial experience, continuing legal education, references from judges and other lawyers, and successful completion of an examination.

It typically takes three to five years to become board certified in trial advocacy. To be eligible for board certification, an attorney must have at least five years of active practice in the field of trial advocacy or litigation. They must also complete at least 40 hours of approved continuing legal education courses in trial advocacy or litigation-related topics within the past three years. Additionally, they must provide references from judges or other lawyers attesting to their competence and ethical character. Finally, they must pass a written examination covering all aspects of trial advocacy.

The cost for board certification varies depending on the state where the attorney practices law. Generally speaking, it costs between $500 and $1,000 to apply for board certification with NBTA. This fee covers the cost of processing applications, administering examinations, and granting certifications.

Once an attorney has achieved board certification in trial advocacy by NBTA, they can use this credential as evidence that they are highly skilled and experienced in their field when representing clients in court proceedings or negotiations outside of court.

2. Certified Civil Trial Advocate by the National Board of Legal Specialty Certification

The Certified Civil Trial Advocate (CCTA) is a certification granted by the National Board of Legal Specialty Certification (NBLSC). This certification is designed to recognize attorneys who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge, skill and proficiency in civil trial law. To become certified as a CCTA, an attorney must demonstrate substantial involvement in civil trial practice, complete a comprehensive written examination, and meet certain educational and experience requirements.

The process for becoming certified as a CCTA typically takes about six months to complete. The first step is to submit an application and fee to the NBLSC. Once your application has been reviewed and approved, you will be eligible to take the written examination. After passing the exam, you must then submit evidence of your experience in civil trial practice as well as proof of continuing legal education credits related to civil trial practice. Finally, you must provide references from three attorneys who are familiar with your work in this area.

The cost for becoming certified as a CCTA varies depending on the state in which you are applying. Generally speaking, it can range from $500-$2,000 or more. This includes the application fee, exam fee and any additional fees associated with submitting proof of experience or continuing legal education credits.

3. Certified Criminal Trial Advocate by the National Board of Legal Specialty Certification

Certified Criminal Trial Advocate (CCTA) is a certification program offered by the National Board of Legal Specialty Certification (NBLSC). The CCTA program is designed to recognize attorneys who have demonstrated exceptional proficiency in the practice of criminal trial law. This certification is open to all attorneys, regardless of their state bar admission status.

In order to become certified as a CCTA, an attorney must meet certain qualifications and pass an examination. To qualify for the certification, applicants must be admitted to practice law in at least one jurisdiction and have practiced criminal trial law for at least five years. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate substantial involvement in the defense or prosecution of criminal cases during that period of time.

The CCTA exam consists of two parts: a written portion and an oral portion. The written portion covers topics such as constitutional law, evidence, criminal procedure, and professional responsibility. The oral portion requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in a simulated courtroom setting.

The process of becoming certified as a CCTA typically takes several months to complete. After submitting an application and meeting the eligibility requirements, applicants must register for the exam with NBLSC. The exam fee is $1,500 and includes both parts of the exam as well as study materials and access to online resources. Once registered for the exam, applicants can begin preparing for it by studying from the provided materials or attending review courses offered by NBLSC-approved organizations.

After passing both portions of the exam, applicants will receive their CCTA certificate from NBLSC indicating that they have achieved this level of expertise in criminal trial advocacy. The certification is valid for five years before renewal is required.

4. American College of Trial Lawyers Fellow

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. Fellowship in the College is extended by invitation only and only after careful investigation, to those experienced trial lawyers who have mastered the art of advocacy and whose professional careers have been marked by the highest standards of ethical conduct, professionalism, civility, and collegiality.

It typically takes up to two years for an individual to become a Fellow in the ACTL. The process begins with a nomination from another Fellow or a state committee member. After receiving a nomination, potential Fellows are evaluated based on their professional qualifications and reputation within their respective communities. This includes an extensive background check that looks at their character, ethics, legal skills, experience in trial practice, and other criteria.

Once all evaluations are completed and approved by the Board of Regents and state committees, potential Fellows are invited to attend a formal induction ceremony where they take an oath of office and receive their certificate as a Fellow of the ACTL.

The cost for becoming a Fellow in the ACTL varies depending on your state or province. Generally speaking, there is an initial application fee that ranges from $100-$500 USD depending on your location. There may also be additional fees associated with membership such as annual dues or other costs associated with attending meetings or events held by the organization.

5. International Academy of Trial Lawyers Fellow

The International Academy of Trial Lawyers (IATL) is a professional association of preeminent trial lawyers from around the world. The IATL Fellows are selected based on their exceptional skill, experience and integrity in the practice of law.

To become an IATL Fellow, a lawyer must have been in active practice for at least fifteen years and have achieved a reputation for excellence as a trial lawyer. Candidates must also demonstrate a commitment to professionalism and ethical conduct in all aspects of their practice.

The selection process for IATL Fellowship is rigorous and requires nomination by two current Fellows, followed by an extensive review process that includes interviews with existing Fellows. Once accepted, the candidate becomes an Associate Fellow and can apply for full Fellowship after three years of membership.

The cost to join the International Academy of Trial Lawyers is $2,500 per year. This fee covers membership dues and access to exclusive events and activities offered through the organization.

6. American Board of Professional Liability Attorneys Certificate Holder

The American Board of Professional Liability Attorneys (ABPLA) Certificate Holder is a professional certification that recognizes attorneys who demonstrate expertise in the field of professional liability law. The ABPLA Certificate Holder is a prestigious designation that is recognized by courts, clients, and peers as an indication of excellence in the field of professional liability law.

It typically takes about 6 months to receive the ABPLA Certificate Holder after submitting your application. To become an ABPLA Certificate Holder, you must meet certain criteria, including passing an exam and completing at least 25 hours of continuing legal education related to professional liability law within the past three years. You must also have been admitted to practice law for at least five years and have handled at least 10 professional liability matters during that time.

The cost of becoming an ABPLA Certificate Holder varies depending on the type of membership you choose. There are three levels of membership: Full Member ($1,000/year), Associate Member ($500/year), and Student Member ($250/year). All memberships require a one-time application fee of $50.

Overall, becoming an ABPLA Certificate Holder is a great way to demonstrate your expertise in the field of professional liability law and showcase your commitment to excellence in this area.

7. American College of Civil Trial Mediators Certificate Holder

The American College of Civil Trial Mediators Certificate Holder is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the practice of civil trial mediation. The program is open to attorneys, mediators, and other professionals who have completed at least 40 hours of civil trial mediation training and have demonstrated their ability to mediate civil trials.

It typically takes about six months to complete the requirements for the Certificate Holder designation. To become certified, applicants must first complete an approved 40-hour course in civil trial mediation. After completing the course, applicants must pass a written examination that tests their knowledge of the principles and practices of civil trial mediation. Once they have passed the exam, applicants must then submit a portfolio demonstrating their experience as a mediator in at least three different cases. Finally, applicants must also participate in an oral interview with members of the American College of Civil Trial Mediators Board of Directors.

The cost for becoming a Certificate Holder varies depending on the type of training taken and other factors such as travel expenses. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $4,000 or more for all required courses and exams.

8. Advanced Civil and Appellate Advocacy Certificate from the National Institute for Trial Advocacy (NITA)

The National Institute for Trial Advocacy (NITA) Advanced Civil and Appellate Advocacy Certificate is a program designed to help lawyers and other legal professionals develop their skills in civil litigation and appellate advocacy. The program consists of two parts: an intensive three-day course in advanced civil litigation techniques, followed by an additional three-day course focusing on appellate advocacy. The courses are taught by experienced trial lawyers, judges, and legal scholars from across the country.

The Advanced Civil and Appellate Advocacy Certificate takes approximately six days to complete. Participants must attend both courses in order to receive the certificate. The program is offered at various locations throughout the year, so it is important to check with NITA for upcoming dates and locations.

The cost of the Advanced Civil and Appellate Advocacy Certificate varies depending on the location of the courses. Generally speaking, the cost ranges from $1,500 - $2,500 per person for both courses combined. This fee includes all materials and instruction necessary for completion of the certificate program.

Upon successful completion of both courses, participants will receive a certificate from NITA acknowledging their achievement as well as access to exclusive resources such as webinars, articles, practice tips, and more.

9. American Bar Association’s National Institute for Trial Advocacy (ABANITA) Certificate Holder

The American Bar Association’s National Institute for Trial Advocacy (ABANITA) Certificate Holder is a certification program designed to recognize attorneys who have demonstrated excellence in the practice of trial advocacy. The certificate holder designation is awarded to those who have successfully completed all components of the ABANITA program, including completion of an intensive four-day trial advocacy seminar, a written examination, and a final performance assessment.

To become an ABANITA Certificate Holder, an attorney must first complete the four-day trial advocacy seminar. This seminar provides instruction on topics such as opening statements, direct and cross examination techniques, closing arguments, jury selection strategies, and other aspects of trial practice. After completing the seminar, attorneys must pass a written exam that covers material covered during the seminar. Finally, they must demonstrate their skills in a live performance assessment conducted by experienced faculty members.

The cost of becoming an ABANITA Certificate Holder varies depending on the location of the training. Generally speaking, it will cost around $2,000 to attend the four-day seminar and take the written exam and performance assessment. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with travel and lodging expenses if you are attending from out of town.

10. Advanced Negotiation and Mediation Certificate from Harvard Law School

The Advanced Negotiation and Mediation Certificate from Harvard Law School is a professional certificate program designed to help participants develop the skills necessary for successful negotiation and mediation. The program consists of four intensive courses that can be taken either in person or online, depending on the participant's preference.

The program takes approximately 10 months to complete, with each course lasting 4-6 weeks. The courses cover topics such as negotiation theory, dispute resolution techniques, communication strategies, and cultural considerations. Participants are expected to complete all four courses within the 10-month period in order to receive the certificate.

In order to get the certificate, participants must successfully complete all four courses and submit a final project demonstrating their mastery of the material covered in the program. The cost of the program varies depending on whether it is taken online or in person; however, it typically ranges from $3,000-$4,000 USD.

11. Advanced Litigation Skills Certificate from Georgetown University Law Center

The Advanced Litigation Skills Certificate from Georgetown University Law Center is a comprehensive program that provides attorneys with the essential skills to become successful litigators. The program is designed to provide attorneys with an in-depth understanding of the litigation process, including trial practice, discovery, and motion practice. It also covers topics such as negotiation, mediation, and arbitration.

The program consists of four courses: Litigation Practice & Procedure; Evidence & Discovery; Motions & Appeals; and Negotiation & Alternative Dispute Resolution. Each course is eight weeks long and requires approximately six hours of work per week. The courses are taught by experienced faculty members from the Georgetown Law Center.

To get the certificate, students must successfully complete all four courses within two years. Students may take up to two courses at a time but must complete all four courses within two years in order to receive the certificate.

The cost for the Advanced Litigation Skills Certificate from Georgetown University Law Center is $2,400 for all four courses combined. This fee does not include textbooks or other materials required for the coursework.

Do You Really Need a Trial Attorney Certificate?

The short answer is yes. If you are planning to practice law, either as a trial attorney or in any other capacity, it is essential that you obtain a trial attorney certificate. This certification is provided by the state in which you plan to practice and serves as proof that you have met the educational and professional requirements for becoming a lawyer.

The first step in obtaining a trial attorney certificate is to complete an approved legal education program such as a Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school. Once you have completed your legal education, you must pass the bar exam administered by the state in which you plan to practice. Upon successful completion of the bar exam, you will then be eligible to apply for a trial attorney certificate from your state's licensing board.

In addition to providing evidence of your qualifications and professional training, having a trial attorney certificate also offers several advantages. Most notably, it demonstrates that you are knowledgeable about the laws pertaining to civil and criminal cases in your jurisdiction and that you can competently represent clients in court proceedings. Also, having this certification may help increase your credibility with potential clients and employers. Furthermore, many states require attorneys to obtain this certification before they can be admitted into courtrooms or practice law within their boundaries.

In summary, if you are planning on pursuing a career as an attorney or representing yourself in legal matters, then it is highly recommended that you obtain a trial attorney certificate from the appropriate licensing board in your state. Obtaining this certification will provide evidence of your qualifications and demonstrate that you have met all necessary educational and professional requirements for practicing law.

Related: Trial Attorney Resume Examples

FAQs About Trial Attorney Certifications

1. What is a trial attorney certification?

A trial attorney certification is an advanced credential for attorneys who specialize in trial work. It provides recognition for legal professionals with the knowledge, skills, and experience to handle complex cases in court.

2. How do I become certified as a trial attorney?

In order to become certified as a trial attorney, you must meet certain criteria set by your state or jurisdiction’s bar association. This may include additional education, passing an exam, and having a minimum number of years of experience practicing law.

3. What are the benefits of being certified as a trial attorney?

Being certified as a trial attorney can provide recognition from peers and clients that you have the necessary knowledge and experience to handle complex cases. Additionally, it can open up opportunities for career advancement in the legal field.

4. Is there an exam I need to pass in order to become certified?

Yes, many states or jurisdictions require applicants to pass an exam in order to be eligible for certification. The specific requirements vary depending on where you are located and what type of certification you are pursuing.

5. How long does certification last?

Certification typically lasts three years before needing to be renewed or updated with new information or training materials.