Board Certification
What does it Mean?
Established in 1982 by the Supreme Court of Florida. Board Certification provides consumers with the assurance in the selection of legal counsel. A lawyer who is Board Certified by The Florida Bar has demonstrated ability and experience in his or her field of practice and has earned a reputation for professionalism within the legal community.
The Board Certification program operates according to Supreme Court approved standards in 29 practice areas. A member of the Florida Bar who has earned this career achievement may list “Board Certified” or “Specialist” on business cards or letterhead, in legal directories or in the yellow pages or telephone directories.
Board Certification not only helps consumers, it benefits the legal profession by requiring high standards, continuing legal education and professionalism in the practice of law.
To become a certified specialist, a lawyer must:
- Be an active member in good standing of The Florida Bar
- Have practiced law for a minimum of five years
- Pass a written examination in the specialty area
- Complete approved legal education programs
- Demonstrate substantial experience in the specialty area
- Be favorably evaluated as to ability and experience in the specialty field by judges and other lawyers
- Exhibit outstanding character, ethics and a reputation for professionalism
An attorney’s certification remains valid for five years. To recertify, the attorney must generally meet the same requirements as for initial certification.
Allyson Hughes is one of approximately 6% of attorneys in the state of Florida who has passed the rigorous standards of board certification. Further, Ms. Hughes has served as a member of the Marital and Family Law Certification Committee and was Chair of the Committee in 2012-2013. The Certification Committee is responsible for reviewing applications of attorneys seeking certification as well as preparing and grading the yearly certification exam.