Legal Marketing: Social Media Strategies You Can't Ignore

Social media, at this point, is hardly a new concept in law firms. People have been debating its merits for a few years now and more and more firms are getting into the game with Twitter and LinkedIn accounts, a Facebook presence and a JD Supra page. But for the still-averse among firm leaders, what’s the absolute last word? In my opinion it’s this: Get in the game! While you don’t have to jump in the deep end immediately, not participating in social media can only serve to hurt your firm. It keeps you connected to clients, colleagues and referral sources and allows potential clients to gain information other than simply what’s on your website. That being said, there are some basics to remember when joining the online community. Here are few…

Do your homework. There’s obviously a lot of advice and opinion when it comes to social media, especially for lawyers. That’s why it’s imperative to do your own research. Look around different sites, speak with friends and colleagues and start to understand where and how you want your online presence to represent you and your work.

Have a plan. Once you’ve done your investigation stop and think what you want to get back from these sites. Is it referrals? New clients? Visibility? You must also figure out who you’re speaking to. The way you present your information and what you choose to share will differ based on whether you’re speaking to other lawyers, clients in a specific industry, etc… Once you’ve set some goals and have a strategy in place you’ll be better able to navigate the world of social media by understanding who you want to connect with, what you want to say and how you want to do that.

Start Small. If you’re uncomfortable with social media start with something simple. Your best bet? LinkedIn. Because it focuses more on the business side of your life, it’s easy to set up and relatively non-invasive when it comes to personal information. It will allow you to reconnect with friends and colleagues and put you top-of-mind for referrals. It will also allow you to join industry-specific groups where you can share information with colleagues from around the country. Another great industry-specific site is JDSupra.com, who works closely with LinkedIn to create content related to law firms and attorneys.

Remember that its always business. Social media can be dangerous because it makes the sharing of information that much simpler. But it also makes the viewing of information that much simpler. Though most attorneys are extremely careful about what they share online, it’s always good to remember that once information is out there it’s hard to erase it. Whether it’s an article, white paper or just a simple Tweet, everything that goes on the web is a reflection on your business and your firm. It’s called social media but it’s really all business.

Keep it up. There’s no point in setting up a social media account if you’re not going to use it. Carve out time once a week (or even bi-monthly) to check in, update, add new contacts or join a new group. If you’ve written an interesting article, post it; if you read an interesting blog post, share it; and if you meet a new referral source, add them to your network. Just do something.

As social media continues to grow and expand, it becomes more and more important for marketing-savvy law firms to join the movement. As I mentioned above, you don’t have to turn your business development plan upside down, just dipping your toes in the social media waters can reap powerful benefits in the form of visibility, connections, referrals and recognition

Criminal Attorney - How To Help Your Lawyer Help You

Sometimes receiving the best legal defense require more than just finding a good attorney and paying for their services. In scenarios regarding criminal defense, a lawyer will need as much help and honest information so as to offer you the best assistance possible. With something as significant as your personal freedom at stake, you owe it to yourself to do your part. If you are curious about how to getting the most out of your retained representative, then read on for advice.

Your attorney defense of your case is in his or her best interests as well as yours. There is no reason to hold back any information regarding your situation, no matter how incriminating or severe. Be as honest and open as you can when working with this person, as they will keep all that is shared in confidence unless it will help with your defense. Depending on your potential conviction, incarceration or worse, may hinge on your word.

Take every bit of advice your lawyer gives you very seriously. If your retainer advises that you should not speak with any particular people, then follow this suggestion. Furthermore, if advised to keep quiet regarding any or all details dealing with your case, then do so. Experienced legal representatives know the ins and outs of the defense system, so take every word they give you as highly valuable.

Keep a pristine schedule with regards to meetings and hearings. Any failure to be on time or show up for a meeting could make the biggest difference of your life. Strive to stay on top of your schedule no matter what and keep track of all dates and time information.

As your situation revolves entirely around the alleged actions you may have taken, be on your best behavior. If you are in trouble, do not get yourself into any more. You will be tried and judged to determine if you are a model citizen, so try as hard as you can to act like one. Ask your criminal attorney for advice on how to remedy any problems you are dealing with that may relate to your case, as they will instruct you properly and can offer assistance.

n your behavior and attitude; so do not act out of line. Even if the case may not be going the way you would like for it to, try to maintain face and remain as positive as possible. If sentenced, this can drastically alter a conviction.

A criminal attorney is most powerful ally in a situation revolving around possible conviction sentencing. Be upfront and honest with your legal advisor and adopt the attitude of someone who wants to avoid all possible penalties. Strive to be on your best behavior and treat everyone involved in your case with respect, most of all your lawyer. This individual will offer the best defense he or she can, so do your part to assist them.