Lisa
October 30, 2026
Key Takeaways
- New Jersey Supreme Court certification recognizes an attorney’s trial experience, legal knowledge, and favorable evaluations from judges and other attorneys.
- Certification helps you assess courtroom qualifications but does not predict results.
- VP Law identifies founding partner Jeffrey W. Varcadipane as a certified civil trial attorney.
A Certified Civil Trial Attorney in New Jersey has met the Supreme Court of New Jersey’s standards for civil trial practice. If you have suffered a personal injury in Bergen County and need a lawyer, this designation offers you a quick way to assess your potential attorney’s courtroom experience.
What Does “Certified Civil Trial Attorney” Mean in New Jersey?
The Supreme Court of New Jersey awards this designation through its Board on Attorney Certification. To qualify, attorneys must demonstrate civil trial experience, meet professional standing requirements, and establish their legal knowledge.
How Does an Attorney Earn Certification From the Supreme Court of New Jersey?
The Board’s published requirements include the following:
- At least five years as a New Jersey bar member in good standing.
- Primary responsibility for at least 10 qualifying contested actions, including at least 20 civil trial days.
- Continuing legal education, favorable evaluations from attorneys and judges, and a written civil trial examination.
Attorneys must also renew their certification periodically.
How Many New Jersey Lawyers Hold Civil Trial Certification?
From the most recent available statistics in 2016, there were approximately 1,650 New Jersey Certified Civil Trial Attorneys out of roughly 75,000 active lawyers in December 2016 (which covered all certification specialties).
Does Trial Experience Change How Insurers Value a Bergen County Injury Claim?
Although an attorney’s certification alone does not increase your claim’s value (the value of your settlement offer depends much more on the available evidence of fault, extent of the injuries, financial losses, and available insurance coverage), trial experience can help your attorney prepare your best case.
For instance, when an insurer disputes who caused the injury or how much compensation the client should receive, your lawyer may need to prepare witnesses, examine conflicting evidence, and advise you on whether to accept their offer or proceed to trial.
Attorneys who have provable trial experience via the New Jersey civil trial certification can do all this for you.
Which Varcadipane & Pinnisi Attorneys Are Certified Civil Trial Attorneys?
At Varcadipane & Pinnisi, P.C., our founding partner Jeffrey W. Varcadipane is certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a Civil Trial Attorney. He has represented injured plaintiffs and corporate defendants and litigated civil matters in state and federal courts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Certified Civil Trial Attorney better than a regular personal injury lawyer?
Not necessarily. Certification verifies that an attorney meets specific professional requirements. You should also consider their experience with your type of injury claim and whether they communicate clearly and respond to your questions.
How can I verify an attorney’s New Jersey certification?
Check the New Jersey Judiciary Statewide Attorney Index or contact the Board on Attorney Certification to confirm the attorney’s current status.
Do certified attorneys cost more?
Certification does not automatically mean higher fees; the fee agreement you reach with your lawyer will determine what you will owe.
Bergen County Personal Injury Lawyers at Varcadipane & Pinnisi, P.C., Are Ready to Discuss Your Claim
If you were injured, the Bergen County personal injury lawyers at Varcadipane & Pinnisi, P.C., are ready to help you. Our experienced legal team can discuss how your injury happened and your options for pursuing compensation. Call us at 800-616-2916 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. We serve clients throughout New York, New Jersey, and Florida, and have offices conveniently located in Manhattan, Paramus, and Jacksonville.
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