Becoming a Certified Specialist

Becoming an attorney starts with a license from the State Bar of California. To become a certified specialist takes a few extra steps.

Start by registering for the legal specialization examination, which is scheduled every two years. The last one-day exam took place on Oct. 24, 2017 at the Oakland and Pasadena Convention Centers. Registration for the 2019 exam will open early the same year.

You are eligible to register if you are licensed with the State Bar of California, have practiced in the specialty area since January 2018 for at least 25 percent of the time and you can complete and file your Post-Examination Application for Certification documenting the remaining education, experience and references by January 2023.

You can review the general program rules and specific standards for certification in your specialty. Before the exam, information packets will be posted that can be downloaded for free. They contain actual sample questions and more details about the exam.

Applying for certification

If you pass the exam, you can file a Post-Examination Application for Certification. Your certification application will need the following information for the California Board of Legal Specialization to review. You must:

  • Demonstrate a high level of experience in the specialty area by meeting specific task and experience requirements. See the requirements in Rules and Standards.
  • Complete at least 45 hours of continuing education in the specialty area or a closely related field.
  • Receive favorable evaluations from other attorneys and judges.

Fees

Annual fee: $360

Recertification fee: $350 (every five years)

There is also a charge for taking the examination. See more information on the legal specialization examination.