Texas Criminal Lawyer Blog

What does it mean to be Board Certified in Criminal Law by the State Bar of Texas?

In a word, it means an attorney is credentialed.

The Supreme Court of Texas created the Texas Board of Legal Specialization under its aegis. The Board, whose members are appointed by the President of the Texas State Bar, administers the certification program. If you want more information about the Board, you can call 800-204-2222 or 512-463-1454.

Requirements of Certification

An attorney must fulfill the following requirements to be Board Certified in Criminal Law:

• Demonstrate detailed knowledge of Texas and federal constitutional law as well as penal laws and evidence and procedural rules, by passing a full day written examination.
• Pass a rigorous peer review by fellow lawyers and judges
• Have practiced criminal law, specifically, for 3+ years
• Have handled a large array of criminal cases
• Keep up with continuing legal education by attending over 30 hours of seminars or other
approved courses in order to stay current in the specialty.

How long does the certification last?

The first time you get certified, it is valid for five years. But each attorney must reapply to be recertified every five years. This means maintaining educational requirements, practicing law, and passing rigorous peer review from other lawyers and judges.

How can you tell whether an attorney has been Board Certified to practice Criminal Law in Texas?

Only attorneys who have gone through the rigorous training and testing are allowed to advertise that they have been Board Certified in Criminal Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.

Can a non-Board Certified lawyer handle your case?

Of course. However, given the stakes you face – and the potential punishments you might endure if you are convicted, which can include jail time, huge fines, strict probation terms, and a loss of other privileges – it generally behooves a defendant to work with someone who has demonstrated proficiency in the law. A credentialed attorney who understands the law both in theory and in practice -- and who has won the approval not just of judges but also of his or legal peers -- will generally insure that you have hired a criminal lawyer who is highly capable of developing an intuitive, innovative defense for you.