Florida Labor & Employment Law Certification: What It Means to Be Board-Certified 2025

Florida labor & employment law certification is the highest professional designation an attorney can earn in this practice area. Passing the Florida Bar’s board certification tests and learning its endorsement demonstrates excellence, ethical standards, and the personal and professional recognition of the candidate by their peers.

The requirements to become board-certified include:

• Extensive experience in labor and employment law
• Successful completion of one of the most difficult examinations offered by the Florida Bar
• Adherence to rigorous continuing certification requirements

Fewer than 200 attorneys out of more than 100,000 licensed in Florida have achieved this honor. It is one of the most exclusive certifications available in the legal profession. As a result, when you hire a board-certified lawyer, you can be confident that your attorney has the Florida Bar’s highest level of endorsement.

Hire an Employment Lawyer

At the Law Offices of Gary A. Costales, P.A., clients benefit from the guidance of one of Florida’s few board-certified labor and employment attorneys. Mr. Costales not only achieved this rare credential but also serves on the Florida Bar’s certification committee, helping oversee the rigorous testing and review process.

This dual role highlights both experience and authority, so our clients receive representation that meets the highest professional standards recognized in Florida.

Earning the Florida labor and employment law certification requires far more than simply practicing for a set number of years. Attorneys must:

• Demonstrate significant, hands-on involvement in labor and employment law.
• Undergo a thorough peer review.
• Pass a demanding written examination.

The exam has a reputation as one of the most challenging in Florida, with many skilled attorneys needing more than one attempt to succeed. Certification is not permanent, as attorneys must reapply every five years. This proves that they remain in good standing and continue to devote substantial time and study to labor and employment law.

The Role of the Certification Committee

The certification committee ensures that board certification isn’t just a label. It is a validated credential. Committee members review applicant materials, evaluate peer reviews, and decide whether to grant or deny certification. They also create and administer the exam, set policy guidelines, and continually refine standards under oversight from the Florida Bar’s board.

Since the committee governs not only who becomes certified but also how quality is maintained, its work underpins the reputation and trust clients place in board-certified labor and employment attorneys.

Why Board Certification Holds Weight for Clients in Employment Cases

Board certification carries real meaning because it signifies more than years in practice. It reflects evaluated experience. In Florida, only 165 attorneys are recognized as board-certified in labor and employment law, making them a small and distinguished group.

Clients who choose a board-certified attorney can feel confident they’re getting someone vetted through peer review, examination, and ongoing oversight, rather than just a generalist lawyer who dabbles in employment matters.

The Rarity and Strategic Advantage of Certified Employment Lawyers

One reason board certification is significant is the nature of its scarcity. In Miami-Dade County, there are 21 board-certified labor and employment law attorneys. In Broward, there are 9. These numbers are low because few lawyers subject themselves to the exacting standards of board certification.

When a client hires a board-certified attorney, they are hiring someone from an exclusive club of attorneys whose work is known and valued throughout the state. These attorneys are more likely to have the experience and knowledge to deal with both employee-side and employer-side matters.

FAQs

Contact an Employment Attorney for Cases Involving Florida Employment Laws

Florida labor and employment law certification isn’t just a designation; it’s the highest possible professional achievement in the field. With less than 200 certified attorneys in the state, and even fewer who are certified in representing both employees and employers, it’s a rare and prestigious credential. It’s a guarantee that your lawyer has been independently tested, peer reviewed, and continually retested and reevaluated.

At the Law Offices of Gary A. Costales, P.A., we’re proud to offer this level of skill and attention to every matter for every client. When it’s your career or workplace rights at stake, you deserve nothing less than the experience and knowledge of a trusted, board-certified professional. Book a consultation today to hire an employment lawyer you can trust.