Which of the following is a key requirement before a lawyer claims to be a specialist?

A key requirement for a lawyer to claim to be a specialist is obtaining certification from a recognized body. This certification typically involves meeting specific qualifications and standards set by a formal organization that evaluates the lawyer's expertise in a particular area of law. Such certification ensures that the lawyer has the necessary knowledge and experience to justify their claim of specialization.

This requirement is in place to protect the public and maintain professional integrity. It prevents lawyers from making misleading or unfounded claims about their proficiency. While public announcements of expertise, peer approval, or government licenses may be relevant in some contexts, they do not carry the same formal recognition as certification from an accredited body. Only certification provides a benchmark of competency that clients and other attorneys can rely on when assessing a lawyer's specialized skills.