Introduction

In the legal profession, expertise and trust are paramount. For clients seeking legal representation, knowing that their attorney possesses the highest level of knowledge and skill in their area of practice provides invaluable peace of mind. This assurance comes in the form of Board Certification—a prestigious designation that sets certain attorneys apart as true experts in their field. But what exactly does it mean to be Board Certified in law, and why should it matter to you?

What Is Board Certification?

Board Certification is the highest level of evaluation by The Florida Bar of the competency and experience of attorneys in their area of specialization. Attorneys who earn this designation have demonstrated not only extensive experience and in-depth knowledge in their field but also a commitment to professionalism and ethics. In Florida, fewer than 7% of licensed attorneys are Board Certified, making this a distinctive and significant achievement.

The Rigorous Path to Certification

Achieving Board Certification is no small feat. It requires attorneys to undergo a rigorous evaluation process that includes the following:

1. Experience and Practice Focus: An attorney must have substantial involvement in their chosen area of law, typically requiring a minimum number of years of practice. For example, juvenile law specialists must demonstrate significant experience in handling juvenile cases, including trials, appeals, and other related legal matters.

2. Peer Review: Attorneys seeking Board Certification must be evaluated by their peers—fellow lawyers and judges who have observed their work. This peer review process assesses the attorney’s competence, professionalism, and ethical standards.

3. Continuing Legal Education: Certified attorneys are required to complete a substantial amount of continuing legal education in their specialty area, ensuring they remain current on the latest developments and legal standards.

4. Comprehensive Examination: Perhaps the most challenging aspect of the certification process is passing a comprehensive examination. This test covers the nuances and complexities of the attorney’s area of specialization, ensuring they possess deep, substantive knowledge.

5. Commitment to Professionalism: Beyond technical competence, Board Certified attorneys must demonstrate a commitment to the highest standards of professionalism and ethics in their practice.

The Benefits of Hiring a Board Certified Attorney

For clients, choosing a Board Certified attorney offers several significant benefits:

• Expertise You Can Trust: Board Certification clearly indicates that your attorney is a true expert in their field, with a proven track record of competence and success. This expertise is particularly crucial in complex cases, such as juvenile defense or personal injury, where the stakes are high, and the legal landscape can be challenging to navigate.

• Commitment to Excellence: Board Certified attorneys must meet ongoing educational requirements, ensuring they stay up-to-date with the latest legal developments. This commitment to continual learning translates into more effective representation for clients.

• Professionalism and Integrity: The rigorous peer review process ensures that Board Certified attorneys adhere to the highest standards of professionalism and ethics. Clients can feel confident that their attorney will handle their case with the utmost integrity.

• Proven Experience: Board Certification is only awarded to attorneys who have demonstrated substantial experience in their area of law. This means that when you hire a Board Certified attorney, you’re choosing someone who has successfully handled cases like yours before.

Board Certification in Juvenile Law

At Plata Schott Law, both Belkis Plata and Shannon Schott are proud to be Board Certified Specialists in Juvenile Law. This distinction reflects their deep commitment to advocating for the rights of children and families in Northeast Florida. As Board Certified attorneys, they have the specialized knowledge and experience necessary to navigate the complexities of juvenile law, from defending minors in criminal cases to representing children in personal injury matters.

Juvenile law is a unique and challenging field that requires not only legal expertise but also a compassionate understanding of the issues that children and their families face. By choosing a Board Certified Juvenile Law attorney, you can trust that your child’s case is in the hands of a professional who is dedicated to securing the best possible outcome.

Why Board Certification Matters

Board Certification is more than just a title—it’s a mark of excellence that assures clients of the highest level of legal representation. For those facing serious legal challenges, such as a child’s injury or arrest, having a Board Certified attorney on your side can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

When you choose a Board Certified attorney from Plata Schott Law, you choose a legal team with the proven expertise, professionalism, and dedication to handle your case with the care and skill it deserves.

Conclusion

In a legal landscape where the stakes are often high and the challenges complex, Board Certification serves as a beacon of trust and excellence. Whether you are facing a personal injury case or navigating the juvenile justice system, hiring a Board Certified attorney ensures that you have a true expert advocating for your rights.

At Plata Schott Law, we proudly offer our clients the highest level of legal expertise and support. Contact us today to learn more about how our Board Certified attorneys can help you navigate your legal challenges with confidence and success.