Education and Degree
All personal injury attorneys must earn a Juris Doctor degree from a law school accredited by the American Bar Association. Law school typically takes three years to complete after earning a bachelor's degree. During law school, students study tort law, civil procedure, and evidence, which are essential for personal injury cases.
Bar Exam and Licensing
After law school, attorneys must pass the bar exam in the state where they want to practice. The bar exam tests knowledge of state and federal law. Once they pass, they receive an active law license that allows them to practice law. Each state has its own bar exam and licensing requirements, so attorneys may need to take additional exams if they want to practice in multiple states.
Continuing Legal Education
Most states require attorneys to complete continuing legal education (CLE) credits throughout their careers to keep their licenses active. These courses help attorneys stay updated on changes in the law and maintain their professional skills. The number of required credits varies by state, usually ranging from 10 to 40 hours per year.
Professional Ethics and Good Standing
Personal injury attorneys must maintain good professional standing with their state bar association. This means following ethical rules, being honest with clients, and avoiding conflicts of interest. Attorneys can lose their license if they violate ethical standards or engage in misconduct.
Specialization and Experience
While not legally required, many personal injury attorneys pursue additional certifications or training in personal injury law. Some states allow attorneys to become certified personal injury specialists. Experience handling personal injury cases helps attorneys develop expertise, though there is no formal requirement for how many cases they must handle before practicing. 
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