What Does It Mean to Be a Board-Certified Elder Law Attorney (and Why Should You Care)?

Here’s a little secret that sets some lawyers apart: not all attorneys are board certified.

In the legal world, board certification is like earning your black belt. It tells people you’ve gone above and beyond in a specific area of law. In my case, that’s elder law—the field that helps seniors and their families navigate important matters like long-term care planning, Medicaid eligibility, estate planning and probate administration.

So... What Is Board Certification, Really?

Board certification is awarded by The Florida Bar to attorneys who meet very specific (and very rigorous) criteria. It’s not something you can just buy or claim—it’s something you earn.

Per the Florida Bar: "Board certification recognizes attorneys' special knowledge, skills and proficiency.... board certification helps consumers identify specialists..."

To become board certified in elder law, an attorney must:

        • Practice law for at least five years

        • Handle a substantial number of cases in the specialty area

        • Complete advanced continuing legal education

        • Pass an intense and comprehensive written exam

        • Undergo a peer review to confirm ethical standards, legal expertise and professionalism

• Being board certified is leveling up.

How Rare Is Board Certification?

Very.

There are over 80,000 lawyers in all of Florida. Of those, only 118 attorneys (as of the writing of this article) are Board Certified in Elder Law

Why Should You Work with a Board-Certified Elder Law Attorney?

You could work with a generalist attorney for your elder law needs - but would you go to your general practitioner for heart surgery?

Here’s what you get when you work with a board-certified elder law attorney like me:

        ✔️ Proven experience in handling the specific legal issues that affect seniors

        ✔️ Up-to-date knowledge of ever-changing laws and programs (like Florida Medicaid)

        ✔️ Credibility and trust, because my peers and The Florida Bar have already vetted my work

        ✔️ Peace of mind, knowing you’re in expert hands

Whether you’re helping a parent transition to a nursing home, applying for benefits to help pay for home care, want to ensure that your estate planning wishes are honored; or trying to avoid a guardianship, the rules are tricky; mistakes are costly. That’s why having a specialist can make all the difference.

Bottom line? If you’re looking for help navigating the legal maze of aging, don’t settle for just any attorney. Work with someone who’s done the extra homework, passed the very difficult test, and is recognized as a leader in the field.

Want to talk more? I’d be honored to help. After all, elder law isn’t just my profession—it’s my passion.

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