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Real Estate Lawyers

Certification, Licensing, and Special Requirements

Certification or Licensing

The National Board of Legal Specialty Certification offers voluntary board certification in civil pretrial practice, civil law, and other areas. Contact the board for more information.

Every state requires that lawyers be admitted to the bar of that state before they can practice. They require that applicants graduate from an approved law school and that they pass a written examination in the state in which they intend to practice. In a few states, graduates of law schools within the state are excused from these written examinations. After lawyers have been admitted to the bar in one state, they can practice in another state without taking a written examination if the states have reciprocity agreements; however, they will be required to meet certain state standards of good character and legal experience and pay any applicable fees.

Many lawyers who specialize in real estate law also carry a brokers’ license. A real estate broker acts as an agent for others in buying or selling property. Licensure is obtained after sufficient course work and the successful completion of an examination. Check with your state for specific licensure requirements as they may differ from state to state.