Selecting an Attorney Specializing in Workers' Compensation
Obviously, you want a lawyer who is able to handle your particular legal situation, who has expertise in the area of law relating to your legal needs. To assist you in finding such a lawyer, the Supreme Court of
Florida directed The Florida Bar to offer a "Board Certification" program for Florida lawyers. The program
is designed to help the public make an informed decision when selecting a lawyer.
Certification is the highest level of recognition given by The Florida Bar for competency and experience within an area of law.While all lawyers are allowed to advertise, only certified attorneys are allowed to identify themselves as "Florida Bar Board Certified" or as a "specialist." Each certified lawyer has passed peer review, completed 45 hours of continuing legal education within three years immediately preceding application and has passed a written examination demonstrating knowledge, skills and proficiency in the field of workers' compensation to justify the representation of special competence. Every lawyer certified in workers' compensation law has practiced law on a full-time basis for at least five years. Each certified lawyer has had substantial involvement -- 30 percent or more -- in the practice of workers' compensation law during the three years immediately preceding application. To be certified, the lawyer is required to have substantial involvement in the trial of a minimum of 25 contested workers' compensation cases. All such cases must involve substantial legal or factual issues. In each of the 25 cases the applicant must be responsible for all or a majority of the presentation of evidence and representation of the client. Involvement includes investigation, evaluation, pleadings, discovery, taking of testimony, presentation of evidence and argument, and trial of workers' compensation cases.Not all qualified lawyers are certified, but those who are board certified have taken the extra step to have their competence and experience recognized. 
Serving the needs of Employers, Insurance Carriers, and Servicing Agents throughout Florida
