How to Check a Texas Law License (Attorney Search)

TrustedProsTX — West Texas Legal Resources

Before hiring an attorney in Texas, it is always a good idea to verify that they are licensed and in good standing. The State Bar of Texas makes this easy with a free online lookup tool. Here is exactly how to use it.

Step-by-Step: How to Verify a Texas Attorney License

Step 1: Go to the State Bar of Texas attorney search

Visit texasbar.com and click “Find a Lawyer” in the top navigation, or go directly to texasbar.com/FindaLawyer.

Step 2: Search by name or bar number

You can search by the attorney’s first name, last name, city, or State Bar number. Last name alone is usually enough to find someone.

Step 3: Review the result

Each attorney listing shows their bar number, license status, and the year they were licensed. Look for “Eligible to Practice” as the license status.

Step 4: Check for disciplinary history

From the attorney’s profile, you can click to view their disciplinary record. The State Bar publishes public sanctions, suspensions, and disbarments.

What the License Statuses Mean

Eligible to Practice — the attorney is in good standing and licensed to practice law in Texas
Not Eligible to Practice — the attorney is suspended, resigned, or disbarred; do not hire someone with this status
Deceased — no longer practicing

Important: Attorneys must be licensed in the state where they practice. A lawyer licensed in Oklahoma, for example, cannot represent you in a Texas state court without being admitted pro hac vice for that specific case.

What Else Should You Check?

Beyond the State Bar license verification, here are a few more things worth checking before hiring a Texas attorney:

Avvo or Martindale-Hubbell ratings — peer and client review platforms where attorneys are rated on a scale
Google Reviews — real client feedback on their experience with the firm
Case results and settlements — many personal injury attorneys publish notable verdicts on their websites
Board certification — the Texas Board of Legal Specialization certifies attorneys in specific practice areas like personal injury or family law; this is a meaningful credential

What Is a State Bar Number?

Every Texas-licensed attorney is assigned a unique State Bar number when they are admitted. This number never changes and is how the Bar tracks an attorney’s history. If an attorney gives you their business card, you can look up their bar number directly at texasbar.com to confirm their standing.

Filing a Complaint Against a Texas Lawyer

If you have a concern about an attorney’s conduct, you can file a grievance with the State Bar of Texas through their Client Attorney Assistance Program (CAAP). Complaints are investigated by the Office of Chief Disciplinary Counsel.

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