What is an Accredited Specialist?

Accredited Specialists are solicitors who, in addition to having extensive experience, have satisfactorily completed an advanced study program in a particular area of law.

There are many solicitors who are experienced practitioners in a range of legal matters, and who provide their clients with the benefit of their experience and practical knowledge. Accredited Specialists are those solicitors who have proven their expertise by successfully undertaking a series of assessments and examinations and who have been judged by their peers as meeting a very high standard.

Specialist Accreditation helps consumers identify solicitors who have demonstrated their ability and experience in the relevant area of law.

Becoming an Accredited Specialist

To qualify as an Accredited Specialist, a solicitor:

has completed an advanced study program in their area of expertise
has demonstrated extensive experience in their area of expertise
must undertake Continuing Legal Education to ensure that the Specialist's knowledge and practice remain up to date

Re-accreditation

Accredited Specialists must apply for re-accreditation each year, as accreditation lasts to 30 June each year. To be re-accredited, Specialists generally must

hold a current practising certificate
maintain a substantial involvement in the practice area
have undertaken in the previous year continuing legal education in the area of law in which they are accredited