Board Certification in Civil Trial Law
Board certification is an advanced stage in practicing law. Board certified attorneys aspire to practice at the top of their profession. To qualify for board certification, lawyers must have extensive experience in their specialty & must meet meticulous quality standards. The National Board of Trial Advocacy is a non-profit organization and is the leader in specialty certification. In fact, the NBTA was the first board certifying agency in the world that is accredited by the American Bar Association.
Board certification is exclusive to specific legal professionals. Attorneys must be substantiated, educated and actively practicing law to achieve this distinction. In addition to the American Bar Association, these rigorous standards & objectives are recognized by the U.S. Supreme Court.
Requirements Includes:
- In practice for a minimum of (5) years
- In good standing with state of admission
- Demonstrate substantial legal involvement & CLE attendance
- Favorable peer references
- Pass board examination
In Kentucky, there are over 19,000 attorneys. As of July 2025, just (14) of the 19,000 are board certified in Civil Trial Law. Golden Law Office, PLLC in Lexington, Kentucky is honored to have (3) board certified attorneys in our firm. J. Dale Golden & John W. Walters have been board certified for over 25 years. Just recently, Laraclay Parker received her board certification in Civil Trial Law.
A board certified attorney has undergone a rigorous vetting process to demonstrate a high level of specialized knowledge, experience and ethical standards in the area of civil litigation. This certification is a mark of expertise beyond the general requirements of passing the bar exam; it requires significant trial experience (with a minimum of 45 days in trial), advanced continued education, passing a full-day, stringent/written examination & receiving positive feedback & reviews from fellow attorneys and judges.
Why Should it Matter to You?
Acknowledged Proficiency & Competence
Board certification provides a recognized way for clients to identify attorneys with proven skill and expertise in complex civil matters.
Reassured Confidence
Seeking a board-certified civil trial lawyer gives clients greater confidence in their attorney’s capabilities to handle a case effectively.
Specialized Strengths & Capabilities
For cases that proceed to trial, a board certified civil trial attorney possesses the skilled knowledge and experience needed to navigate the complexities of the courtroom.
Board certified attorneys have demonstrated a mastery of law, in their chosen field. Board certification does not merely benefit individual lawyers and their clients, but it strengthens the profession as a whole. In fact, this comprehensive designation for board certification sets higher standards- both in expertise and principles.
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