In Texas, “board certified” is more than a marketing term. It’s a formal credential awarded by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization (TBLS) to attorneys who demonstrate exceptional skill, experience, and professionalism in a specific legal field. For personal injury victims in Houston, choosing a board-certified Houston personal injury attorney can offer peace of mind and a higher level of legal representation. This article explains what board certification means, how it’s earned, and why it matters when selecting a lawyer after a serious accident.
What Is Board Certification in Texas?
Board certification in Texas is an official recognition of an attorney’s expertise in a particular area of law. It’s a voluntary but rigorous process that sets certified attorneys apart from their peers.
The Role of the Texas Board of Legal Specialization (TBLS)
The Texas Board of Legal Specialization (TBLS) is the only organization authorized by the State Bar of Texas to certify attorneys in legal specialties. Established to help the public identify lawyers with proven expertise, TBLS certification is a mark of professional excellence, not a title that can be claimed without meeting strict criteria.
Requirements for Personal Injury Trial Law Certification
To become board certified in Personal Injury Trial Law, an attorney must:
- Have at least five years of legal practice, with a significant focus on personal injury cases
- Pass a comprehensive written exam that evaluates legal knowledge and trial proficiency
- Submit references from judges and fellow attorneys who can vouch for their ethics and competence
- Complete ongoing continuing legal education in personal injury law to maintain certification
- Tried at least 10 personal injury trial law cases that met substantive requirements
These requirements ensure that board-certified attorneys are not only experienced but also up to date on current legal standards and practices.
Why It’s a Rare Distinction
Only about 10% of licensed attorneys in Texas are board certified by TBLS. Even fewer hold certification in Personal Injury Trial Law. This makes the credential a meaningful indicator of specialized skill and dedication, especially for clients seeking representation in Houston.
Why Board Certification Matters for Injury Victims
If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, the attorney you choose can directly affect the outcome of your case. Board certification provides assurance that your lawyer has the qualifications to handle complex personal injury matters effectively.
Verified Expertise
Board-certified attorneys have demonstrated their legal knowledge and trial capabilities through independent testing and peer evaluation. Unlike general claims of experience, TBLS certification is earned, not claimed.
Confidence in High-Stakes Cases
Serious injury cases often involve long-term medical care, lost income, and emotional distress. Knowing your attorney has met the highest standards in their field can give you confidence during a difficult time.
Practical Advantages
While board certification doesn’t guarantee a specific result, it often correlates with stronger negotiation skills, courtroom experience, and case outcomes. Consumer advocacy groups and bar associations frequently recommend seeking board-certified attorneys for personal injury claims.
Common Misconceptions About Board Certification
Misunderstandings about board certification are common. Here’s what to keep in mind when evaluating an attorney’s credentials.
“All Certifications Are the Same”
Only TBLS certification is officially recognized in Texas. Some attorneys may list other credentials or memberships that sound impressive but don’t involve the same level of vetting. Always verify the source of any claimed certification.
“Only Large Firms Have Certified Attorneys”
Board-certified personal injury attorneys practice in firms of all sizes. Boutique firms like Hernandez Sunosky, LLP in Houston combine certified legal expertise with personalized service, something that can be harder to find at high-volume firms.
“Certification Is Easy to Get”
The TBLS certification process is demanding. It requires years of focused legal practice, endorsements from judges and peers, and passing a difficult exam. Certified attorneys must also complete continuing education to keep their status current.
How to Verify and Choose a Board-Certified Attorney in Houston
Before hiring a personal injury attorney in Houston, take a few minutes to confirm their board certification status. Here’s how:
- Visit the Texas Board of Legal Specialization website to find a certified lawyer
- Use the search tool to look up the attorney by name, specialty, or location
- Confirm that the attorney is certified in Personal Injury Trial Law
- Be cautious of vague claims, if an attorney says they are “certified,” make sure it’s through TBLS
This quick step can help ensure you’re working with a verified legal expert.
Why Choose Hernandez Sunosky, LLP
At Hernandez Sunosky, LLP, we understand the challenges injury victims face. That’s why we offer board-certified representation backed by local experience and a commitment to client-focused service.
Board-Certified Representation
Our firm includes attorneys who are board certified in Personal Injury Trial Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. This credential reflects our dedication to legal excellence and our ability to handle serious injury cases with skill and integrity.
Houston-Based Legal Insight
We bring deep knowledge of the Houston legal system, from local court procedures to insurance defense tactics. Our experience helps clients throughout the Houston area pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
Personalized Legal Strategy
Unlike high-volume firms, Hernandez Sunosky, LLP offers direct access to experienced attorneys. We take the time to understand your case and build a legal strategy tailored to your specific needs and backed by certified legal skill.
Get the Legal Expertise You Deserve from a Board-Certified Texas Personal Injury Attorney
When your health, livelihood, and future are at stake, don’t settle for less than verified legal expertise. At Hernandez Sunosky, LLP, we believe injury victims deserve representation that’s both skilled and compassionate. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn how our board certification and our commitment can make a difference in your case.