Criminal Defense Lawyers in Pinellas County, Florida

Florida Bar Board Certification in Criminal Trial Law - The criminal trial law specialty certification field was established in 1987 in Florida. Under Rule 6-8.2 the term "criminal law" is defined as the practice of law dealing with "the defense and prosecution of misdemeanor and felony crimes in state and federal trial and appellate courts."

Attorneys certified by the Florida Bar in criminal trial law have meet minimum standards provided in Rule 6-8.3, including: at least 5 years of practicing law; substantial involvement in the specialty of criminal trial law (30% or more during the 3 years immediately preceding application); handling at least 25 contested criminal cases (with 20 jury trials, tried to a verdict, 15 which involved a felony, and 10 as lead counsel).

The Florida attorneys certified as specialist in criminal trial law have also submitted to peer review, passed a rigorous written examination and completed a specified number of continuing legal education (CLE) courses in the specialty area of the law.

In the State of Florida, only certified attorneys are allowed to identify themselves as "specialists" or "experts" or to use the letters "B.C.S." to indicate Board Certified Specialist. Depending on the designation earned, the attorney is allowed to use the phrase "Board Certified in Criminal Trial Law" or "Board Certified in Criminal Appellate Law."

NBLSC Certification in Criminal Trial Advocacy - The National Board of Legal Specialty Certification is accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA) to certify attorneys as specialists in criminal trial advocacy.