You have done the hard work to get here. You have just been notified that you have been recommended for admission to the Florida Bar. Congratulations! You’re only one step away from becoming a licensed Florida lawyer. Now you are wondering, “How do I take my Oath of Attorney.” This blog will provide all the information you need about taking your Oath of Attorney once accepted to the Florida Bar.

What Is An Oath Of Attorney?

When a Florida Bar applicant is recommended for admission, the final step to becoming a Florida Bar member is taking the Oath of Attorney.The oath is performed by a judge, notary public, or another person that is authorized to administer oaths. The Oath of Attorney is a commitment that an attorney makes when they are admitted to the Florida Bar. The key promises a Florida lawyer makes when taking the oath include:

• Uphold the United States and Florida constitutions
• Respect for courts and judicial officers
• Avoid representing unjust cases
• Use only honorable tactics to find cases
• Maintain client confidentiality 
• Respect opposing parties and counsel
• Avoid using facts that harm a party or witness’s reputation unless absolutely necessary

When Do I Need To Take My Oath Of Attorney Once I Receive My Recommendation From The Florida Board Of Bar Examiners?

The important thing to remember is that you are not a licensed Florida lawyer until you take the Oath of Attorney. So, you will want to have your oath administered as quickly as possible. However, you do have ninety days from receiving your Florida Bar eligibility notification to take your oath.

How Can I Take My Oath Of Attorney Once Accepted To The Florida Bar?

You can have your Oath of Attorney administered as soon as you are notified that you have been recommended for admission. This can be done in state or out of state by any person authorized to administer oaths. An oath form will be provided in the application portal. 

Once administered, remember to sign the Oath of Attorney, and have the judge or person that administered your oath sign it and seal it. 

Oath of Attorneys can be administered on Zoom or a similar platform. In this case you will sign the oath, then email it to the authorized official who can sign it and email it back to you for submission.

You can also attend a swearing in ceremony. The Oath of Attorney will be administered to a group of approved applicants. Your paperwork can be completed at this time as well. Some law schools offer induction ceremonies. You can also follow the Florida Supreme Court on social media or check their website for ceremonies as well.  

You are required to submit an executed copy of the oath to the board. This submission will certify your admission and the date of admission. Upload your Oath of Attorney on the Florida Board of Bar Examiners portal.

Conclusion

Now you know how to take your Oath of Attorney and officially become a Florida Bar member and a licensed Florida attorney. You have several options to have your oath administered, and you can do this in state or out of state. Just remember to have you Oath of Attorney executed within ninety days of being notified of your recommendation for the Florida Bar.  

If you or any of your peers need a Florida Bar Admissions Attorney, Elizabeth S. Conan, Attorney At Law, has the expertise you need to help with Florida Bar Character Investigations, Florida Bar Investigative Hearings, and more.