A Select Group of Attorneys
The State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization recognizes some attorneys as certified specialists in certain legal disciplines. This status indicates that these individuals, by virtue of their experience, on-going legal education, and the recognition and respect of their peers, have achieved a level of legal knowledge and professionalism that relatively few other attorneys in the state have achieved.
The requirements to achieve certification in family law are high and include:
- Experience in every area of family law and in court cases of specific types
- Substantial courtroom experience
- Service as a judge-appointed arbitrator, special master, or judge pro tem
- Special education in the field
- Passing a rigorous examination
- Recommendations of judges and other lawyers
To continue their certified status, lawyers must continue to practice in the field and take additional periodic educational classes.
Of the over 200,000 attorneys in California, only about 1,000 attorneys in California have received certification as specialists in family law. At our firm, three attorneys, Robert Burch, Todd Coulston, and Courtney Shepard have been certified by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization.
Advantages of Certification
Certified specialists have earned the recognition and respect of their peers. This respect means that lawyers and others in the legal community listen closely to the opinions of certified specialists. Because they must demonstrate their experience in a range of family law areas, certified specialists understand many varied types of family law cases. They stay informed of the always changing field of family law through continuing education courses, interaction with other family law and divorce attorneys, as well as engaging in the practice of family law on an every day basis.
Certification status can never serve as a predictor of results in a specific case. It does indicate that a certified specialist has the level of knowledge, experience, and professionalism required to analyze and pursue complex family law matters such as property division, paternity, child custody and visitation, child support, and others.
If you face a complex or contentious family law matter, the experience and knowledge of Mr. Coulston, Mr. Burch, and the other legal professionals at our firm may provide the advantage you need to obtain a favorable or satisfactory outcome.
For a consultation with The Law Offices of Burch and Coulston, LLP, call 949.202.5728 or 866.909.6059 or contact us online. The firm serves clients throughout Orange County, including the cities of Irvine, Costa Mesa, Santa Ana, Dana Point, and Newport Beach.
