Your trusted Florida board-certified trial attorneys
A board-certified trial attorney is a lawyer who has been formally evaluated and approved by The Florida Bar for proven trial skill, in-depth legal knowledge, and a strong record of ethical conduct in a defined area of practice. To become board certified in criminal trial law, an attorney must satisfy strict eligibility requirements, demonstrate substantial experience in jury and non-jury trials, and pass a demanding examination that tests mastery of criminal law, criminal procedure, and courtroom advocacy. Only a small percentage of licensed Florida lawyers receive board certification, and a smaller subset holds recognition in criminal trial work, which signals to clients, judges, and opposing counsel that the attorney has met the highest standards set by The Florida Bar.
Why does board certification matter when looking for trial attorneys?
Board certification is also a continuing commitment rather than a one-time credential. A board-certified criminal trial attorney must remain actively engaged in trial practice, complete advanced continuing legal education, and consistently uphold the professional and ethical standards required by The Florida Bar. Certified lawyers are reviewed periodically to confirm that they continue to satisfy these benchmarks, so the certification serves both as a mark of achievement and a continuing promise to the public. Clients who work with a board-certified criminal trial attorney benefit from representation by counsel who stays current on changes in criminal law, evolving defense strategies, and modern courtroom practice.
Meet Susan Lawson
Susan Lawson, Co-Founding Partner at Lawson and Simmons, PLLC, is among the select group of lawyers recognized as a Board-Certified Criminal Trial Attorney by The Florida Bar. With nearly two decades devoted exclusively to criminal defense, more than 100 jury trials, and extensive experience in serious state and federal cases, Susan earned board certification through documented trial performance, strong peer evaluations, and a longstanding reputation for ethical, results-focused advocacy. When clients choose Susan to lead their defense, they gain the assurance that their case is being handled by an attorney formally recognized by The Florida Bar and the Florida State Bar community for excellence in criminal trial practice. Anyone wishing to learn more about board certification or verify Susan’s status can consult The Florida Bar’s official directory of board-certified lawyers.
