What does it mean to be a Criminal Law Specialist certified by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization?

The State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization certifies attorneys as specialists who have achieved distinction in a specialized legal field. In California, less than 500 of the over 250,000 licensed attorneys are certified Specialists in Criminal Law.

Legal specialization requires that the applicant pass a written examination held by the State Bar of California every two years. If the applicant passes the examination, they must then submit an application attesting to their legal experience in the specialized practice area. Evaluations are then sent to attorneys and judges in the applicant’s jurisdiction, and the evaluations are reviewed prior to awarding the certification.

Criminal Specialists must also attend and submit proof of regular continuing legal education and trainings relating to criminal law such as evidence, trial advocacy, substantive criminal law and procedure, and other subjects related specifically to criminal law.

If you are charged with a crime, you want an attorney who specializes in criminal law and procedure. Jessica Agnich is one of a handful of attorneys in the bay area who has been certified as a Specialist in Criminal Law by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization. Read more about Jessica here .