Polston to lead Bar’s certification office
Polston to lead Bar’s certification office
Diana Polston is the new director of The Florida Bar Legal Specialization and Education Department.
Polston comes to LSE from the Bar’s Professional Development Department, where she was a section administrator from 2012-14.
“I am delighted at the opportunity to serve as director of legal specialization and education,” Polston said. “I look forward to working with the members involved in this program and the wonderful staff of the department.”
Polston steps in for former Director Dawna Bicknell, who began work for The Florida Bar in 1980 after the Supreme Court initially rejected board certification.
In 1982, the program was approved and Bicknell helped to implement the first two areas in civil trial and tax. During her tenure, the program expanded to include 24 practice areas and is recognized as a leader among the programs that certify lawyers across the country.
“It is gratifying to see the growth and acceptance of board certification,” Bicknell said. “It is a coveted credential, and those who attain it should be proud of their accomplishment.”
Bicknell’s next life chapter will be dedicated to her farm, raising grass-fed Devon cattle and other heritage-breed livestock. “For the Board of Legal Specialization and Education, the board certification program, and myself in my involvement, Dawna has been a guiding light,” said BLSE chair Jack Pelzer.
“Her wisdom and vision have built this program and made it what it is — the preeminent board certification program for lawyers in the country. We are so grateful to Dawna and will miss her in so many ways.”
Polston is a 2005 graduate of Florida State University, and previously worked in property management.
The Legal Specialization and Education department oversees the board certification plan and the continuing legal education programs of The Florida Bar.
Overseeing the LSE is the Board of Legal Specialization and Education. The mission of the BLSE is to improve the practice of law and the delivery of legal services to the public through the enhancement of technical skills and substantial competence, united under the highest standards of professionalism.
In pursuit of that mission, the BLSE oversees the award of board certification, evaluates and accredits continuing legal education, and ensures all Florida Bar members comply with the educational requirements established by the Supreme Court of Florida.
For more information, visit floridabar.org/certification or contact the Legal Specialization & Education Department at 850-561-5842.
