National 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 jury trial experience & 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 legal profession that is accredited by the American Bar Association.
Certification provides the public with information to make an informed decision about the law firms they hire. It requires a peer review from trial court judges who have personally witnessed the attorneys advocating in a Kentucky jury trial and attest to the qualifications and competency of the attorney. In addition to being accredited by the American Bar Association, it has been recognized in a U.S. Supreme Court Case.
Requirements Include:
- In practice for a minimum of five years
- In good standing with state of admission
- Demonstrate substantial legal involvement & CLE attendance
- Favorable peer references
- From judges who have resided over a jury trial conducted by the attorney
- From other attorneys
- Participation in at least 45 days of trial
- Includes serving as lead counsel in a minimum of five jury cases
- Conducting direct & cross examinations of lay & expert witnesses
- Presenting a minimum of eight opening arguments
- Presenting a minimum of four closing arguments
- Conducting at least five voir dire jury examinations
- Pass board examination
In Kentucky, there are over 19,000 attorneys. As of September 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 has been board certified for over 25 years. John W. Walters & Laraclay Parker are also board certified in civil trial law. This makes Golden Law Office, PLLC the ONLY law firm in the state of Kentucky to have three attorneys who are board certified 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), up to date continuing legal 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 expertism and principles.
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