California Legal Specialists
The State Bar of California offers California lawyers the opportunity to become certified in 11 areas of law practice.
In order to be identified as a "certified" specialist in California, an attorney must be certified either by The State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization, or an organization whose certification program has been accredited by the State Bar. (Such an organization must have requirements for certification that are at least equal to those of the State Bar's program.)
California attorneys certified as specialists must pass a written examination in their specialty field, demonstrate a high level of experience in the specialty field, fulfill ongoing education requirements and be favorably evaluated by other attorneys and judges familiar with their work.
Attorneys should refer to the State Bar's certification requirements and list of specialty areas for additional information.
Members of the public can find a certified legal specialist in their county by accessing Legal Specialist Search.
Updates
- New Specialty Proposals - To propose a new speciality area please review the Standards and submit an application for consideration by the Board of Legal Specialization.
- Recertification applications are online.
- A logo is available for specialists certified by the Board of Legal Specialization and may be used in lieu of text for advertising and other communications as required by Rule of Professional Conduct 1-400(D)(6).
- 23rd Annual Report
Office of Legal Specialization
legalspec@calbar.ca.gov