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Mike’s Quick Answer
The approved designation is an attorney who is “Certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a Civil Trial Attorney.” It is a specialty credential administered through the Supreme Court’s Board on Attorney Certification. Certification requires more than years in practice. Applicants must satisfy experience requirements, demonstrate substantial involvement and trial activity in the specialty, provide peer references, meet education and good-standing standards, and pass a written examination. Certification is granted for a term and requires recertification to continue using the designation. It identifies verified trial-law qualifications, but it does not promise a result in any individual case.
The Supreme Court Controls the Credential
New Jersey permits qualified lawyers to seek certification in specified areas. The Board reviews the application under court rules and regulations, obtains confidential references and ethics information, and administers the examination process.
The official advertising language matters. The credential should identify the lawyer and the exact specialty rather than suggest that the firm itself is certified or use an unapproved variation.
Civil Trial Certification Reflects Actual Trial Work
The process requires substantial experience and defined contested matters, not simply membership in a bar association or payment for a directory listing. Trial preparation, courtroom responsibility, references, continuing education, and examination distinguish it from a marketing award.
The requirements are intended to help the public identify lawyers whom the Supreme Court, through its certification process, has found highly qualified in the designated specialty.
Trial Experience Helps Even When a Case Settles
Most personal injury cases resolve without a jury verdict. Trial experience still affects evidence selection, witness preparation, expert evaluation, motion strategy, and assessment of what a judge or jury may do.
A settlement position carries more weight when it comes from a case prepared to proceed. Certification is one useful indicator of that background, not the only factor in choosing counsel.
Certification Is Not a Guarantee
Every case depends on facts, law, proof, insurance, witnesses, medical issues, and decisions outside the lawyer’s control. No credential permits a lawyer to promise a settlement, verdict, timeline, or particular recovery.
I am Certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a Civil Trial Attorney, and I bring that trial perspective to case evaluation from the beginning. I still owe each client an honest assessment of strengths, risks, and choices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is every New Jersey trial lawyer certified?
No. Lawyers can handle civil trials without certification. Certification is an additional Supreme Court-regulated specialty credential.
Does certification last forever?
No. Certification is granted for a term, and the attorney must complete the recertification process to continue using the designation.
Does certification guarantee a better settlement?
No. It verifies specified qualifications and experience. Results still depend on the individual case and many uncontrollable factors.
Sources and Further Reading
About Michael B. Fusco
I am Michael B. Fusco, a New Jersey personal injury lawyer who is Certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a Civil Trial Attorney. For more than 15 years, I have represented injured people throughout New Jersey and have recovered more than $75 million in gross settlements and verdicts. I started Fusco Law because clients deserve direct answers, careful preparation, and a lawyer who remains personally involved. I can help guide clients through the complexities of a New Jersey personal injury case from the first investigation through settlement or trial. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.
Ask What the Trial Credential Means in Practice
I am happy to explain my certification, courtroom experience, and how I would prepare your case. Contact Fusco Law or call 732-INJURED for a candid discussion, without promises or pressure.
Important Disclaimer
This article provides general information only. It is not legal advice, and it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Contacting Fusco Law does not create an attorney-client relationship or make a communication privileged unless and until the firm agrees in writing to represent you. I am a personal injury attorney, not a medical doctor, accountant, tax adviser, or financial adviser. Medical, tax, accounting, and financial questions should be directed to an appropriately licensed professional. Every matter depends on its own facts and the law that applies. If you have questions about a New Jersey personal injury claim, contact Fusco Law.