Boyd & Jenerette is pleased to announce that Partner Blake J. Hood has received renewal of board certification by The Florida Bar in Workers' Compensation. This is a tremendous professional achievement of which The Florida Bar distinguishes Mr. Hood as a specialist and an expert in workers' compensation law dealing with the analysis and litigation of problems or controversies arising out of the Florida Workers' Compensation Law. Blake has been certified since 2013 and has been with Boyd & Jenerette for over 17 years.

Blake devotes his practice to the defense of employers and insurance carriers in claims and appeals arising under the Florida Workers' Compensation Act as well as claims brought under the federal Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act. His practice extends throughout the state of Florida, and he is licensed to practice law in North Carolina as well. He represents many insurance carriers and third-party administrators.

Established in 1982 by the Florida Supreme Court, board certification helps consumers identify specialists in various areas of law. Certification is The Florida Bar’s highest level of evaluation of competency and experience of attorneys in the 26 areas of law approved for certification by the Supreme Court of Florida.

Seven percent of eligible members of The Florida Bar (approximately 4,800 lawyers) are board certified. The process is a rigorous one, and requires at least five years of law practice, a substantial involvement in the field of law for which certification is sought, satisfactory peer review of competence in the specialty field, passing an examination and satisfying continuing legal education requirements.

Board certification is valid for five years. Over the five-year period, the attorney must continue to practice in the specialty area and attend continuing legal education courses approved by The Florida Bar. Recertification requirements are similar to those for initial certification. Not all qualified lawyers are board certified; only those who have taken the extra steps to have their competence, experience and professionalism evaluated.