Florida Insurance Law Certification Nears Approval; Coverage College Scheduled for March

Bona fide expertise in Florida property insurance law is inching closer to reality, thanks to new rules and educational initiatives aimed at enhancing legal proficiency in this critical area.

In September, the Florida Bar’s Board of Governors approved proposed rules for a certification in insurance coverage law. Following a recent comment period, the next step involves a review by the state Supreme Court.

The certification, as detailed in the proposed rules, will require several measures to demonstrate experience in insurance litigation. Applicants must have at least five years of legal practice, with a minimum of 40% of that time dedicated to insurance coverage law—this is a reduction from the initially proposed seven years. Additionally, candidates must provide proof of having performed at least 30 insurance-related services. These services can include drafting insurance provisions in contracts and representing policyholders or insurers in various legal proceedings, such as court, administrative, regulatory, or arbitration settings.

Moreover, applicants will be required to pass an examination that assesses their skills and proficiency in insurance law.

This initiative, in development since 2018, aims to differentiate between attorneys who specialize in insurance matters—whether representing plaintiffs or defendants—and those who only have a cursory understanding of the field. If finalized, this certification will join the ranks of 28 other certifications offered by the Florida Bar.

To further educate Florida attorneys in the dynamic and evolving realm of insurance law, a group of lawyers is organizing the Florida Insurance Coverage College seminar on March 5 in Orlando.

This inaugural event, which offers continuing education credits, is being held in conjunction with the Florida Construction Law Institute. It will cover a range of topics, including recent legislative changes, landmark appellate court decisions, bad-faith issues, and emerging trends in technology and coverage disputes.

“This is an advanced course, not a beginner’s course. It’s for judges, too,” stated Debbie Crockett, a policyholder attorney with the Cheffy Passidomo law firm.

Crockett is co-chairing the event alongside attorney Michael Cassel. For more information, interested parties can reach out via email at dscrockett@napleslaw.com or mcassel@cassel.law.

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