Goldberg Jones is proud to announce that The State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization has named attorney Joseph P. Waters from our San Diego office a Certified Family Law Specialist.
Talking about Joseph’s accomplishment, managing attorney Zephyr Hill, said, “We couldn’t be prouder of Joseph. This really shows that the state recognizes his commitment and passion for helping the families and children of San Diego.”
Becoming a Certified Family Law Specialist involves much more than simply focusing on family law. To earn this recognition, attorneys must demonstrate a deep dedication to and expertise in the field. Candidates undergo an extensive, in-depth process as detailed by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization.
The Board certifies legal specialists in various disciplines and for two primary reasons. First, “[t]o help the public identify attorneys who have demonstrated proficiency in specialized fields of law.” Second, “[t]o encourage the maintenance and improvement of attorney competence in specialized fields of law.”
In this case, that field is family law, which includes divorce, custody, and other similar areas.
To become a Certified Family Law Specialist, an attorney must be an active member of the State Bar of California and have spent at least 25% of the previous five years working in family law. Contenders must pass an extensive test which is only given every two years. That, however, is still only part of the process.
Related Reading: Learn More About Certified Family Law Specialists
Beyond the exam, there’s also an elaborate application packet with which to contend. This lays out the applicant’s experience in family law and includes positive references from colleagues, judges, and even opposing counsel. In addition to these steps, attorneys must complete a minimum of 45 hours of continuing education in their specialty.
And that’s far from the end.
Once an attorney earns the Certified Family Law Specialist designation, it’s an ongoing process. The label requires they actively maintain their status and keep abreast of the most recent legislation and current legal developments.
Every three years, specialists must complete 36 hours of approved training, specifically in family law. Every five years, in order to retain the title, they must go through a recertification process. Fortunately, they don’t have to retake the test, which many liken to the bar exam.
This is an extensive, ongoing undertaking. Many begin this path but can’t finish the journey. Which is why we wanted to take a moment to celebrate Joseph Waters on this occasion. It’s a significant accomplishment and a personal and professional achievement well worth noting.
When dealing with family law cases, whether divorce, child custody, or other issues, having a skilled attorney is key. The Certified Family Law Specialist designation illustrates Joseph’s continuing dedication to being the best family law practitioner possible.
Joseph’s kindness and dedication to his clients is second to none. A competitive, compassionate litigator, he continues to be a great asset to our firm and to the husbands and fathers of the San Diego area.