Personal Injuries

Why Board Certification Matters in Your Personal Injury Case

Metier Law Firm discusses the importance of NBTA Board Certification in personal injury law. Learn how certified attorneys can provide superior representation in accident cases.

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By Michael DiPaolo

9 min read
Whether you’ve been in a car accident in Denver or fighting for justice after a semi-truck crash in Fort Collins, you need more than just accident lawyer – you need a proven winner in personal injury law. A Colorado personal injury attorney with the right experience can navigate the complexities of your case.
If you or a loved one has recently been injured in a crash or accident that wasn't your fault, you're likely facing a whirlwind of emotions, medical appointments, and tough decisions. As you grapple with the financial, physical and emotional toll of your injuries, you'll soon realize that one of the most crucial choices you'll make is selecting the right Colorado personal injury lawyer to represent you.

The difference between a General Personal Injury Lawyer and a Board Lawyer holding pen signing docsCertified Personal Injury Attorney can be significant.  Personal Injury Attorneys and Truck Accident Lawyers who are Board Certified by the National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA) have a deeper understanding of the nuances of Colorado traffic laws, insurance regulations, and the tactics often employed by insurance companies to minimize payouts.  They have the expertise to build a strong case, negotiate effectively, and if necessary, present your case compellingly in court.

In this challenging time, when your future may depend on the outcome of your legal case, you deserve a law firm that has demonstrated distinguished excellence in personal injury law. That's where Board Certification comes into play, setting apart those law firms who have personal injury attorneys on staff who have gone above and beyond in their field.

What Is NBTA Board Certification?

What is NBTA Board Certification? Established in 1977, the National Board of Trial Advocacy aims to acknowledge and promote elevated standards of legal support and representation during trials. Given the intricate nature of trial proceedings, clients often have much at stake. Selecting an inexperienced or disinterested lawyer can lead to substantial and avoidable losses. The NBTA identifies trial attorneys across the United States who have demonstrated expertise, commitment, and success in court. This initiative not only recognizes skilled attorneys but also assists consumers in locating the most ABA logoqualified professionals to represent them effectively in their cases.

The National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA) has been authorized by the American Bar Association (ABA) to certify lawyers who are proficient in their specific fields of law, such as civil trial law, criminal trial law, and truck accident law, to name a few. This authorization was granted only after a thorough assessment of the NBTA's certification procedures and standards. This guarantees that the NBTA is not just an entity that acknowledges lawyers based on paid memberships, but truly identifies the most exceptional trial attorneys in the U.S.

Qualifications For NBTA Board Certification


Understanding the significance of this kind of certification necessitates knowing that the process of acquiring it can be lengthy and challenging for lawyers who apply. The NBTA does not exempt any lawyer from any requirements or provide any "grandfather" clauses, so you can be confident that Board Certified lawyers have put in considerable effort to attain this distinction.

A lawyer must meet several requirements to be eligible for Board Certification in civil trial law, including:

• The attorney maintains good standing with the Bar in all states where they practice
• They have been actively involved in civil litigation for a minimum of five years
• A significant portion of their legal practice is devoted to civil litigation
• They have engaged in a certain amount of actual trial practice, managing a substantial number of cases to conclusion
• They continue to stay updated on civil trial practice trends by participating in Continuing Legal Education (CLE) courses and programs or by instructing courses, ensuring they remain abreast of legal changes
• A stringent peer review process where 10 to 12 peers (not immediate colleagues) provide references for the lawyer, including a minimum of three judges who have supervised a trial led by the applicant
• They are required to exhibit their comprehensive understanding of civil trial law by undertaking a demanding written test, which assesses their knowledge of the most recent advancements in their area of expertise
• They are obligated to provide a legal writing sample for evaluation
• Their previous behavior must comply with NBTA standards for excellence – they must maintain a flawless ethics record. 

The procedure of application and evaluation may span up to two years for certain lawyers. The dedication and hard work required to even submit an application signifies that Board Certification holds significant value for any lawyer who has achieved this honor.

In case you are dealing with a personal injury lawsuit, it is always advisable to consult a reputable and seasoned personal injury law firm that is acknowledged for its accomplishments in the legal domain. The presence of NBTA Board Certified attorneys at Metier Law Firm signifies that you can depend on their team to competently and consistently advocate for your optimal interests in court.

The Power of Board Certification


At Metier Law Firm, we understand the immense trust you place in your legal representation. When you're facing the aftermath of a serious injury, you need more than just promises – you need proven expertise from a car accident lawyer or truck accident lawyer. That's why we're proud to have not one, but two Board Certified Attorneys on our team, a distinction that sets us apart in the field of personal injury law, as only the top 2% of lawyers ever reach the distinction of being Board Certified.
Tom Metier
Our founder, T. Thomas Metier, stands out as a triple threat in the legal world. He holds NBTA Board Certifications in Civil Trial Advocacy, Civil Trial Law, and Truck Accident Law. This unique combination of certifications means that whether you're dealing with a complex civil case, a devastating truck accident, or any other personal injury matter, Tom brings a wealth of specialized knowledge to your case.
Grant Lawson
Complementing Tom's expertise is Grant Lawson, who holds an NBTA Board Certification in Truck Accident Law. In states like Colorado and Wyoming, where commercial trucking is a vital part of the economy but also poses significant risks on our highways, having a truck accident attorney with specialized certification in this area can be a game-changer for victims of truck accidents.

Tom Metier and Grant Lawson are honored to be recognized as some of the top trial lawyers in the country by NBTA. Regardless of the nature of your case, you can rely on our high standard of service.

But what does this mean for you?


So what does Board Certification really mean for you as a client? It's far more than just a fancy title. NBTA Board Certification is a mark of excellence recognized by courts and peers alike. Only 2% of all attorneys in the United States possess this distinction. 

When you choose Metier Law Firm, you're not just getting any personal injury attorneys – you're getting a team with personal injury lawyers on staff with certified skills who have proven their ability to handle the most complex cases in their field. This expertise translates into a deeper understanding of the nuances of your case, more effective strategies for negotiation and litigation, and ultimately, a higher likelihood of a favorable outcome for you on your personal injury claim.

In the high-stakes world of dealing with motor vehicle accidents, where your physical recovery and financial future may hang in the balance, the difference between a good lawyer and a great one can be profound. Choosing a firm with lawyers that possess NBTA Board Certifications is your assurance that you're working with a law firm with personal injury attorneys on their team who have risen to the top of their profession and are equipped to provide you with the highest level of representation.

Your Next Steps: Navigating the Path to Justice and Recovery


If you're grappling with the aftermath of an injury caused by someone else's negligence, it's crucial to understand that you don't have to face this challenging journey alone. The road to recovery – mentally, physically and financially – can be complex and overwhelming, but with the right legal support, you can navigate it successfully.

Here's why taking action now is so important:

1. Statute of Limitations: In personal injury cases, time is truly of the essence.Lady Justice figurine in front of legal books Each state has its own statute of limitations – a legal deadline for filing your claim. In Colorado, for instance, you generally have two years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit. Waiting too long could mean losing your right to seek compensation altogether.
2. Preservation of Evidence: The sooner you involve a skilled attorney, the better chance you have of preserving crucial evidence. Over time, physical evidence can deteriorate, witnesses' memories can fade, and important documents might be lost or destroyed. Quick action from a car accident attorney or truck crash lawyer helps ensure that all relevant evidence is collected and protected.
3. Prompt Medical Attention: While your health should always be your top priority, having legal representation early on can also help ensure you receive proper medical care. Your attorney can guide you to specialists who can not only treat your injuries but also provide expert testimony if needed.
4. Protection from Insurance Companies: Insurance adjusters may contact you soon after an accident, often seeking statements that could be used to minimize your claim. Having an attorney to handle these communications protects your rights and prevents you from inadvertently saying something that could harm your case.
5. Financial Peace of Mind: Injuries often come with mounting medical bills and lost wages. The sooner you start the legal process, the sooner you may be able to secure compensation to cover these expenses and alleviate financial stress.
6. Focus on Recovery: By entrusting your legal matters to experienced professionals, you can focus your energy where it's needed most – on your physical and emotional recovery.

You deserve an attorney with a personal injury law firm who has proven their excellence in personal injury law and trial advocacy. Using a firm with NBTA Board Certified attorneys on staff brings a level of expertise and dedication that can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

Contact Us Today: Your First Step Towards Justice

Take the first step towards justice and recovery today. Contact our personal injury attorneys at Metier Law Firm for a free, confidential consultation. Here's what you can expect when you reach out to us:

1. Compassionate Listening: We'll take the time to hear your story, Lawyer speaking with clientunderstand the details of your accident, and learn how your injuries have impacted your life.
2. Expert Case Evaluation: Our experienced attorneys will assess the strengths of your case, identify potential challenges, and provide an honest evaluation of your legal options.
3. Clear Communication: We'll explain the legal process in straightforward terms, answer all your questions, and ensure you have the information you need to make informed decisions.
4. Customized Strategy: Based on the specifics of your situation, we'll outline a tailored legal strategy designed to pursue the best possible outcome for your case.
5. No Upfront Costs: Our initial consultation is free, and we work on a contingency fee basis – meaning you don't pay unless we win your case.

Let us put our expertise to work for you. Here's how to get started:

•    Call us now at (866) 377-3800: Our team is available 24/7 to take your call and schedule your free consultation.
•    Visit our website: You can also schedule your consultation online at your convenience at metierlaw.com.
•    Chat with us live: If you prefer, use our website's live chat feature to connect with a representative immediately.

Remember, time is of the essence in personal injury cases – don't wait to get the skilled representation you need and deserve. The sooner you act, the stronger your case can be.

Don't let someone else's negligence define your future. Take control of your situation today. Contact Metier Law Firm and let us help you on your journey to justice and recovery at (866) 377-3800 or online at metierlaw.com. We’re ready to fight for your rights and your future, and we're prepared to put our experience, resources, and dedication to work for you
 Group photo of accident injury lawyers at Metier Law Firm

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