Board Certified Tampa Criminal Defense Attorney

Criminal Trial Law

Given the choice, you would certainly choose a Board Certified heart specialist, or dentist, or pediatrician... so why not choose a Board Certified Attorney? Insist on a criminal defense lawyer who is Board Certified by the Florida Bar. If you have never needed the services of an attorney before, you may need guidance in determining if a prospective lawyer is qualified to handle your case. The Florida Bar developed their Board Certification program for exactly that reason.

 

From the Florida Bar website: "Maybe you have never needed the services of an attorney before; but now you do. Obviously, you want an attorney who can handle your particular legal situation, and who has experience and expertise in the area of law relating to your legal needs."

 

While all lawyers are allowed to advertise, only certified attorneys are allowed to identify themselves as "Florida Bar Board Certified", a criminal law "expert" or "specialist." Certification is the highest level of recognition by The Florida Bar of the competency and experience of attorneys.

 

Every lawyer certified in criminal trial law has practiced law on a full-time basis for at least five years. To become certified the lawyer must have handled 25 criminal cases with at least 20 jury trials, tried to verdict, at least 15 of which involved a felony. Ten trials must have been tried with the lawyer as lead counsel. Each certified lawyer has had substantial involvement -- 30 percent or more -- in the practice of criminal trial law during the three years preceding application. Note: Ms. Palmieri has devoted 100% of her practice to criminal trial law since 1990.

 

Each certified lawyer must also pass peer review, complete 45 hours of continuing legal education within three years preceding application, and pass a written examination demonstrating knowledge, skills and proficiency in the field of criminal trial law to justify the representation of special competence.

Board certification is valid for five years, during which time the attorney must continue to practice law and attend Florida Bar-approved continuing legal education courses. To be recertified, requirements similar to those for initial certification must be met. Not all qualified lawyers are certified, but those who are board certified have taken the extra step to have their competence and experience recognized.

 

Criminal Law Certification as approved by the Supreme Court of Florida in 1987.

The Florida Bar Board of Legal Specialization and Education operates under the authority of the Supreme Court of Florida.