Criminal Law Board Certification in California

Attorneys in both private practice and in the public sector can seek certification. Board-certified attorneys in criminal law work at every level of the criminal justice system including as private criminal defense attorneys, public defenders, or as prosecutors.

Prosecutors in California work at the state level (in the Attorney General's Office) at the county level (in the District Attorney's Office) or at the local level as a City Attorney. Federal prosecutors work in the various divisions of the United States Attorneys' Office.

For purposes of the certification program, the term "criminal law" is defined to include both the defense and prosecution of persons accused of crimes in federal and state court, and minor children subject to wardship proceedings in juvenile court based on allegations of their criminal misconduct.

The definition of criminal law also includes both trial and appellate advocacy, and other ancillary proceedings such as civil and criminal forfeiture proceedings.

The attorney must meet certain educational requirements for certification within the three years prior to application for topics related to criminal law which can include substantive criminal law and procedure; writs, appeals, and ancillary proceedings; evidence; and trial advocacy.

The attorney must also submit to independent inquiry and review requirements for certification. Requirements include recommendations from lawyers, judges, co-counsel and opposing counsel.