Civil Trial Specialty Certification by The Idaho Bar Commission

In Idaho, attorneys seeking certification as Civil Trial Specialists can do so through the Idaho Trial Lawyers Association (ITLA), an organization approved by the Idaho State Bar to certify specialists in specific legal areas.

Requirements for Certification:

• Active Practice: A minimum of five years of legal practice.

• Continuing Legal Education (CLE): Completion of at least 20 hours of CLE in civil trial law within the past three years.

• Professional References: Provision of references from two judges and ten attorneys familiar with the applicant's work.

• Trial Experience: Demonstrated experience as lead counsel in a requisite number of jury and court trials specific to civil law.

• Examination: Successful completion of a written examination in civil trial law.

Upon meeting these criteria and receiving approval from ITLA's Certification of Specialization Committee, attorneys are granted certification for a period of five years, contingent upon ongoing ethical compliance and reporting. Certification is renewable, provided the attorney maintains an active trial practice in civil law and meets recertification standards.

It's important to note that while the Idaho State Bar approves organizations like ITLA to certify specialists, it does not directly certify attorneys. Only attorneys certified as specialists pursuant to Section X of the Idaho Bar Commission Rules can advertise or refer to themselves as specialists in a particular area of law.

Attorneys seeking certification in Civil Trial Law through the Idaho Trial Lawyers Association (ITLA) or other approved certifying organizations must meet rigorous Continuing Legal Education (CLE) standards. These CLE requirements are designed to ensure that candidates remain knowledgeable about current laws, best practices, and evolving legal theories in civil litigation. Here's an expanded overview:

1. Minimum CLE Hours:

   • Attorneys must complete at least 20 hours of CLE in civil trial law within the three years preceding their application for certification.
   • These CLE courses should focus on trial advocacy, litigation strategies, substantive civil law topics, and procedural updates.

2. Approved CLE Courses:

   • CLE credits must be obtained from programs or courses approved by the Idaho State Bar, ITLA, or other recognized accrediting organizations.
   • Courses may include workshops, seminars, webinars, or online learning modules tailored to civil litigation.

3. Relevant Topics for Civil Trial Law CLE:

   • Trial Practice and Advocacy: Techniques for jury selection, opening statements, direct and cross-examinations, and closing arguments.
   • Pre-Trial Litigation: Strategies for motion practice, discovery management, and settlement negotiations.
   • Substantive Law Updates: Changes in Idaho civil law statutes, case law, and procedural rules.
   • Ethics and Professionalism: Handling conflicts of interest, maintaining client confidentiality, and upholding ethical standards during litigation.
   • Specialized Areas: Topics such as personal injury, medical malpractice, product liability, employment law, and other civil matters.

4. Proof of CLE Completion:

   • Attorneys must provide documentation verifying their attendance or participation in approved CLE activities. This often includes certificates of completion and course outlines.
   • The ITLA or certifying body may audit CLE records to ensure compliance.

5. Ongoing CLE Obligations:

   • Certified attorneys must continue to meet CLE requirements during their certification period (usually five years) to maintain their status.
   • Regular updates through CLE ensure that certified specialists remain at the forefront of civil trial practice.

By requiring focused and ongoing CLE, the Idaho certification process ensures that attorneys seeking or maintaining certification in Civil Trial Law have a robust and up-to-date understanding of the legal field, enabling them to provide the highest quality representation to their clients.