Category: Legal Marketing

November 2024 Legal News: Law Firm News and Industry Expansion, Industry Awards and Recognition, DEI and Women in Law

Thank you for reading the National Law Review’s legal news roundup, highlighting the latest law firm news! As the country enters the penultimate month of 2024, legal industry news continues to be a hot topic. Please read below for the latest in law firm news and industry expansion, legal industry awards and recognition, and DEI and women in the legal field.

Law Firm News and Industry Expansion

Ward and Smith, P.A. announced the addition of Hunter Morris and Mark Wigley to the firm’s Raleigh office. Bringing dedication to the firm’s core practice areas, they will help to strengthen the commitment to exceptional client service.

Mr. Morris, a trust and estates attorney, will help guide clients through the planning and administration process including wills, various trusts and powers of attorney. He also offers support in probate document preparation and succession planning.

Mr. Wigley’s practice encompasses litigation matters, such as drafting and filing motions as well as conducting thorough research. Skilled in drafting trial and appellate briefs and managing evidence, he has represented clients in matters filed in the U.S.

“We are excited to welcome Hunter and Mark to the firm,” said Brad Evans, co-managing director of Ward and Smith. “Their commitment to high-quality legal service aligns with our mission to provide our clients with the guidance and expertise needed to navigate complex legal issues.”

Andrew M. Kaufman joined Blank Rome LLP as a Corporate Litigation group associate in the firm’s New York office. Mr. Kaufman is involved in all stages of litigation, representing clients from various industries in a broad range of matters.

Having received his J.D., magna cum laude and Order of the Coif, from New York University School of Law and his B.A., summa cum laude, from Binghamton University, Mr. Kaufman’s practice areas include consumer fraud, securities, products liability, bankruptcy litigation and commercial real estate.

In addition, he has extensive experience preparing fact and expert witnesses for deposition and trial testimony as well as managing discovery in complex litigation.

Norton Rose Fulbright announced the addition of Jim Arnold and Phil Hodgkins as senior counsel to the firm’s global cybersecurity and privacy group in in St. Louis and New York, respectively.

Mr. Arnold, a cybersecurity lawyer, has over 18 years of experience advising Fortune 500 clients on proactive cybersecurity program development. He has led comprehensive investigations, remediations and recovery efforts.

Privacy lawyer Mr. Hodgkins navigates clients through complex data challenges such as regulatory compliance, investigations and litigation. His practice includes many areas of privacy law, such as cross-border data transfers, use and storage, data collection and data privacy regulation readiness analysis.

“Jim and Phil are skilled cybersecurity and privacy professionals with innovative practices that complement our global team. Their backgrounds and focus on helping build programs before there is an issue is a perfect complement to the life-cycle of services we provide our clients,” said Chris Cwalina, head of cybersecurity and privacy at Norton Rose Fulbright. “Our practice is focused on improving oversight and governance for our clients and we are thrilled to have the experience Jim and Phil bring to assist with the wide range of risks in the increasingly complex cybersecurity and privacy landscape.”

Legal Industry Awards and Recognition

The 2025 edition of Best Lawyers recognized multiple National Law Review clients. The rankings include 75 national practice areas and 127 metropolitan areas based on client evaluations as well as leading attorney peer reviews. NLR clients included in the 2025 edition include:

Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP partner Roland M. Juarez was honored by the Los Angeles Business Journal (LABJ) in its annual Leaders of Influence: Labor & Employment Attorneys list. The list honors attorneys recognized as outstanding professionals in the industry by the LABJ based on their professional achievements, community leadership, milestones and notable accomplishments throughout the last 12-18 months.

Mr. Juarez has  been recognized on numerous lists for litigation and labor and employment by Daily Journal, LABJ and The Los Angeles Times, as well as being ranked by legal directories including Benchmark Litigation and Legal 500. He handles high-stakes labor and employment cases including class action and collective actions, PAGA, non-compete, non-solicitation and employee raiding cases, discrimination, harassment, disability, and wage and hour cases.

Jenner & Block Partner Angela Allen was honored at the 2024 Night of Shining Stars on October 30. The event, hosted by Hilco Global and the TMA, benefited the All Stars Project of Chicago, a nonprofit organization that connects youth in underserved communities to opportunities within the city.

Angela was recognized for her contributions in the turnaround and restructuring community and for her commitment to Chicago’s youth. Ms. Allen is actively involved with Turnaround Management Association (TMA) and served as the President of the Chicago/Midwest Chapter in 2020.

DEI and Women in Law

The Leadership Council on Legal Diversity (LCLD) has named Bradley a recipient of its 2024 Compass Award for its involvement in LCLD programs and promotion of the organization’s mission. LCLD is comprised of over 400 corporate chief legal officers and law firm managing partners who are committed to building a more equitable and diverse legal profession. Bradley partner Kristina Allen Reliford was chosen as a Fellow of the LCLD this year, with Bradley associates Trenton K. Patterson and Sabah Petrov being chosen as LCLD Pathfinders.

“We are very appreciative of LCLD’s recognition as one of its 2024 Compass Award winners,” said Bradley Chairman of the Board and Managing Partner Jonathan M. Skeeters. “Bradley is proud of its leadership and commitment to fostering an inclusive legal profession.”

Leigha Beckman, an associate at Morgan Lewis, was awarded the “2024 Antitrust and Unfair Competition Lawyers to Watch Award” by the California Lawyers Association. Ms. Beckman was recognized with four other nominees who have exhibited outstanding achievements in their first eight years of practicing antitrust and unfair competition law.

Ms. Beckham has extensive experience in multidistrict litigation, focusing her practice on counseling, government investigations and litigation. This includes cases brought under California’s Cartwright Act and Unfair Competition Law, as well as the Sherman Act and antitrust class actions.

Copyright ©2024 National Law Forum, LLC
For more Law News, visit the NLR Law Office Management section.

50 Creative Content Ideas for Businesses and Consultants

When it comes to professional service firms and consultants, the challenge isn’t finding content ideas, it’s choosing the ones that will truly resonate with your audience. The goal is to fill your editorial calendar with posts that keep you visible, relevant and connected with the people who matter most, which include clients, potential hires and referral sources. It’s about creating content that offers real value and positions you as a trusted resource.

Building a Content Strategy That Resonates for Professional Service Firms and Consultants

For professional service firms and consultants, creating engaging content is about more than just filling up an editorial calendar, it’s about choosing ideas that connect with your audience on a deeper level. The real challenge lies in selecting topics that are not only relevant but also genuinely valuable to clients, potential hires and referral sources. Effective content keeps you visible, showcases your expertise and strengthens your reputation as a trusted resource in your field.

Here’s how to create impactful content for your blog, LinkedIn and other social channels. This approach will help you create content that resonates with the people who matter most to your business, driving engagement and helping you stay top-of-mind in a crowded market.

  1. Understand Your Audience’s Needs and Interests; Take time to research what topics are top-of-mind for your clients, prospective clients and industry connections. What questions are they asking? What challenges do they face? Tailoring content around these insights ensures that your posts provide practical answers and value.
  2. Prioritize Value-Driven Content: When brainstorming ideas, focus on content that educates, informs or provides actionable insights. Avoid self-promotional or overly technical topics that may not resonate. Content that genuinely helps your audience solve problems or understand industry trends will set you apart as a valuable resource.
  3. Use Varied Content Types for Engagement: Mix up your content to keep it fresh and engaging. Some ideas work well as blog posts or LinkedIn articles, while others might be better suited for quick LinkedIn posts, infographics or short videos. Diversifying your formats can attract different types of engagement and keep your audience coming back.
  4. Maintain Consistency: Building trust requires regular engagement. Schedule posts to maintain a steady presence, so your audience knows they can rely on you for frequent, quality insights. Aim to post consistently without overloading your audience, finding a rhythm that balances frequency with quality.
  5. Track What Resonates: Use analytics to monitor which topics receive the most engagement. Pay attention to comments, shares and direct messages to identify themes that resonate, and adapt your content plan accordingly.

50 Content Ideas to Get You Started

Here are 50 content ideas to help you build a strong, consistent presence on your blog, email newsletters, LinkedIn and other social platforms.

  1. Show your workspace: Give a tour of where you work, whether it’s your office, a co-working space or a virtual setup. This humanizes your firm and makes you more relatable.
  2. Introduce your team: Highlight key team members and their roles, showcasing their expertise and contributions to the success of the firm.
  3. Introduce yourself: Share your career path, your expertise and how you’ve helped clients achieve success.
  4. Showcase a service you provide: Explain a service in detail, focusing on its benefits and how it solves problems for your clients.
  5. Client testimonials: Share short video testimonials from clients explaining how you helped them and what impact your services had on their business.
  6. Tell a story: Share success stories of how you’ve helped clients overcome significant challenges in their industries.
  7. A day in the life: Take your audience through a typical day at your company to show what goes on behind the scenes.
  8. Behind the scenes: Show the preparation that goes into a major project, event or client engagement.
  9. Answer frequently asked questions: Provide insights and answers to common questions clients ask about your services and processes.
  10. Share industry trends: Offer commentary or analysis on current trends in your industry and how clients can take advantage of them.
  11. How it started vs. how it’s going: Share the evolution of your business or a significant project, demonstrating your growth and accomplishments.
  12. Repurpose blog posts or articles: Share snippets from articles or blogs you’ve written, summarizing key takeaways for your audience.
  13. How-to videos: Create short videos explaining complex concepts or offering professional tips and advice.
  14. Share client success stories: Highlight case studies or client success stories that show the value your services provide.
  15. Your regular work routine: Share the routines or habits that help you stay productive and successful in your field.
  16. Reality vs. expectations: Compare what clients typically expect versus the reality of working with your firm or consultancy, focusing on positive surprises.
  17. Before and after: Show the impact of your services through before-and-after case studies of client businesses.
  18. Quick tips: Share a few short, actionable tips related to your field, such as best practices in your area of expertise.
  19. Do what people ask for in comments: Engage directly with your audience by answering questions or addressing topics they raise in the comments.
  20. Positive reactions to industry news: Provide your take on relevant news in your field and why it matters to your clients.
  21. Share the tools you use: Talk about the tools and resources your firm or consultancy uses to stay efficient and deliver great results for clients.
  22. Celebrate business milestones: Highlight significant moments in your business, such as anniversaries, major achievements or new partnerships.
  23. Highlight a professional skill: Focus on showcasing a specific skill you offer, explaining how it benefits clients and what problems it solves.
  24. Client interviews: Record short interviews with clients about their experience working with your firm, showcasing their success stories.
  25. Encouraging messages: Share positive, motivational insights related to your industry or business practices.
  26. A sneak peek into a major project: Offer a behind-the-scenes look at an exciting new project you’re working on.
  27. Run a social media contest: Engage with your audience by running a contest related to your services (e.g., offer a free consultation or a business audit).
  28. Explain your core values: Share a story or insight about the core values that drive your business and how they impact your services.
  29. Show your thought process: Walk your audience through how you approach solving a client’s problem, emphasizing your expertise.
  30. Tips for Hiring in Your Field: Offer advice on hiring practices or skills to look for in your industry.
  31. Case study in your niche: Share a detailed case study about a particular challenge you solved for a client, emphasizing the results and impact.
  32. Checklist for the week: Offer a weekly checklist that helps clients stay on top of key tasks in their industry or business.
  33. 5 pros & cons of (your niche): Provide a balanced view on the benefits and challenges of working in your field, demonstrating your in-depth knowledge.
  34. Industry updates: Share the latest trends or changes in regulations that impact your clients, positioning yourself as a thought leader.
  35. Favorite tools you use: Discuss the tools or software you use to increase efficiency and improve results for clients.
  36. Quick hacks for getting results: Share a quick tip or hack that helps clients achieve better outcomes in their business.
  37. How clients got results: Highlight how clients benefited from working with your firm, with a focus on outcomes and results.
  38. Things I wish I knew before starting my business: Offer insights or lessons you’ve learned that can benefit other entrepreneurs or consultants.
  39. Highlight key lessons from industry events: Share top takeaways or insights from industry conferences, webinars or roundtables that your firm attended.
  40. Share Lessons Learned from a Recent Client Project: Highlight a recent client project and share key takeaways or lessons learned. This helps showcase your expertise while providing practical insights that could benefit your audience.
  41. Ask for followers’ suggestions: Engage your audience by asking them for content ideas or business topics they want to learn more about.
  42. Encourage followers to ask questions: Create a post inviting your audience to ask you questions about your services, industry trends or business advice.
  43. Create an “ask me anything” session: Host a session where your audience can ask you anything, whether it’s about business, personal growth or industry insights.
  44. Insights from Recent Conferences: Share takeaways from recent industry events or conferences (with photos!).
  45. Spotlight a client’s journey: Highlight the stages of a client’s experience, from the initial consultation to the final outcome. Break down how your firm guided them through each phase, offering valuable insights along the way.
  46. Share key takeaways from major projects: Highlight insights and lessons learned from significant client projects, showcasing how your firm’s expertise helped achieve successful outcomes. This provides value to your audience while reinforcing your industry knowledge.
  47. Show before and after results: For service-based businesses, showing the impact your consultancy or firm has made can build credibility.
  48. Showcase industry predictions and trends: Share your thoughts on the future of your industry. Highlight key changes you expect over the next 6-12 months and what businesses should do to prepare.
  49. Highlight women in leadership: Showcase women leaders in your firm or industry. Share their journeys, achievements and advice to inspire others and emphasize your firm’s commitment to diversity.
  50. Behind-the-scenes insight: Offer a glimpse into the process behind your firm’s latest project, case or transaction, giving clients a better understanding of how your firm operates.

These content ideas can help you stay consistent with your social media presence and maintain visibility within your industry. By using content that speaks directly to your audience and showcases your expertise, you’ll keep your firm connected and top of mind for potential clients.

Copyright © 2024, Stefanie M. Marrone. All Rights Reserved.
For more on Law Office Management, visit the NLR Law Office Management section

Legal and Privacy Considerations When Using Internet Tools for Targeted Marketing

Businesses often rely on targeted marketing methods to reach their relevant audiences. Instead of paying for, say, a television commercial to be viewed by people across all segments of society with varied purchasing interests and budgets, a business can use tools provided by social media platforms and other internet services to target those people most likely to be interested in its ads. These tools may make targeted advertising easy, but businesses must be careful when using them – along with their ease of use comes a risk of running afoul of legal rules and regulations.

Two ways that businesses target audiences are working with influencers who have large followings in relevant segments of the public (which may implicate false or misleading advertising issues) and using third-party “cookies” to track users’ browsing history (which may implicate privacy and data protection issues). Most popular social media platforms offer tools to facilitate the use of these targeting methods. These tools are likely indispensable for some businesses, and despite their risks, they can be deployed safely once the risks are understood.

Some Platform-Provided Targeted Marketing Tools May Implicate Privacy Issues
Google recently announced1 that it will not be deprecating third-party cookies, a reversal from its previous plan to phase out these cookies. “Cookies” are small pieces of code that track users’ activity online. “First-party” cookies often are necessary for the website to function properly. “Third-party” cookies are shared across websites and companies, essentially tracking users’ browsing behaviors to help advertisers target their relevant audiences.

In early 2020, Google announced2 that it would phase out third-party cookies, which are associated with privacy concerns because they track individual web-browsing activity and then share that data with other parties. Google’s 2020 announcement was a response to these concerns.

Fast forward about four and a half years, and Google reversed course. During that time, Google had introduced alternatives to third-party cookies, and companies had developed their own, often extensive, proprietary databases3 of information about their customers. However, none of these methods satisfied the advertising industry. Google then made the decision to keep third-party cookies. To address privacy concerns, Google said it would “introduce a new experience in Chrome that lets people make an informed choice that applies across their web browsing, and they’d be able to adjust that choice at any time.”4

Many large platforms in addition to Google offer targeted advertising services via the use of third-party cookies. Can businesses use these services without any legal ramifications? Does the possibility for consumers to opt out mean that a user cannot be liable for privacy concerns if it relies on third-party cookies? The relevant cases have held that individual businesses still must be careful despite any opt-out and other built-in tools offered by these platforms.

Two recent cases from the Southern District of New York5 held that individual businesses that used “Meta Pixels” to track consumers may be liable for violations of the Video Privacy Protection Act (VPPA). 19 U.S.C. § 2710. Facebook defines a Meta Pixel6 as a “piece of code … that allows you to … make sure your ads are shown to the right people … drive more sales, [and] measure the results of your ads.” In other words, a Meta Pixel is essentially a cookie provided by Meta/Facebook that helps businesses target ads to relevant audiences.

As demonstrated by those two recent cases, businesses cannot rely on a platform’s program to ensure their ad targeting efforts do not violate the law. These violations may expose companies to enormous damages – VPPA cases often are brought as class actions and even a single violation may carry damages in excess of $2,500.

In those New York cases, the consumers had not consented to sharing information, but, even if they had, the consent may not suffice. Internet contracts, often included in a website’s Terms of Service, are notoriously difficult to enforce. For example, in one of those S.D.N.Y. cases, the court found that the arbitration clause to which subscribers had agreed was not effective to force arbitration in lieu of litigation for this matter. In addition, the type of consent and the information that websites need to provide before sharing information can be extensive and complicated, as recently reported7 by my colleagues.

Another issue that companies may encounter when relying on widespread cookie offerings is whether the mode (as opposed to the content) of data transfer complies with all relevant privacy laws. For example, the Swedish Data Protection Agency recently found8 that a company had violated the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) because the method of transfer of data was not compliant. In that case, some of the consumers had consented, but some were never asked for consent.

Some Platform-Provided Targeted Marketing Tools May Implicate False or Misleading Advertising Issues
Another method that businesses use to target their advertising to relevant consumers is to hire social media influencers to endorse their products. These partnerships between brands and influencers can be beneficial to both parties and to the audiences who are guided toward the products they want. These partnerships are also subject to pitfalls, including reputational pitfalls (a controversial statement by the influencer may negatively impact the reputation of the brand) and legal pitfalls.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has issued guidelines9 Concerning Use of Endorsements and Testimonials” in advertising, and published a brochure for influencers, “Disclosures 101 for Social Media Influencers,”10 that tells influencers how they must apply the guidelines to avoid liability for false or misleading advertising when they endorse products. A key requirement is that influencers must “make it obvious” when they have a “material connection” with the brand. In other words, the influencer must disclose that it is being paid (or gains other, non-monetary benefits) to make the endorsement.

Many social media platforms make it easy to disclose a material connection between a brand and an influencer – a built-in function allows influencers to simply click a check mark to disclose the existence of a material connection with respect to a particular video endorsement. The platform then displays a hashtag or other notification along with the video that says “#sponsored” or something similar. However, influencers cannot rely on these built-in notifications. The FTC brochure clearly states: “Don’t assume that a platform’s disclosure tool is good enough, but consider using it in addition to your own, good disclosure.”

Brands that sponsor influencer endorsements may easily find themselves on the hook if the influencer does not properly disclose that the influencer and the brand are materially connected. In some cases, the contract between the brand and influencer may pass any risk to the brand. In others, the influencer may be judgement proof, or the brand is an easier target for enforcement. And, unsurprisingly, the FTC has sent warning letters11 threatening high penalties to brands for influencer violations.

The Platform-Provided Tools May Be Deployed Safely
Despite risks involved in some platform-provided tools for targeted marketing, these tools are very useful, and businesses should continue to take advantage of them. However, businesses cannot rely on these widely available and easy-to-use tools but must ensure that their own policies and compliance programs protect them from liability.

The same warning about widely available social media tools and lessons for a business to protect itself are also true about other activities online, such as using platforms’ built-in “reposting” function (which may implicate intellectual property infringement issues) and using out-of-the-box website builders (which may implicate issues under the Americans with Disabilities Act). A good first step for a business to ensure legal compliance online is to understand the risks. An attorney experienced in internet law, privacy law and social media law can help.

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1 https://privacysandbox.com/news/privacy-sandbox-update/

2 https://blog.chromium.org/2020/01/building-more-private-web-path-towards.html

3 Businesses should ensure that they protect these databases as trade secrets. See my recent Insights at https://www.wilsonelser.com/sarah-fink/publications/relying-on-noncompete-clauses-may-not-be-the-best-defense-of-proprietary-data-when-employees-depart and https://www.wilsonelser.com/sarah-fink/publications/a-practical-approach-to-preserving-proprietary-competitive-data-before-and-after-a-hack

4 https://privacysandbox.com/news/privacy-sandbox-update/

5 Aldana v. GamesStop, Inc., 2024 U.S. Dist. Lexis 29496 (S.D.N.Y. Feb. 21, 2024); Collins v. Pearson Educ., Inc., 2024 U.S. Dist. Lexis 36214 (S.D.N.Y. Mar. 1, 2024)

6 https://www.facebook.com/business/help/742478679120153?id=1205376682832142

7 https://www.wilsonelser.com/jana-s-farmer/publications/new-york-state-attorney-general-issues-guidance-on-privacy-controls-and-web-tracking-technologies

8 See, e.g., https://www.dataguidance.com/news/sweden-imy-fines-avanza-bank-sek-15m-unlawful-transfer

9 https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-16/chapter-I/subchapter-B/part-255

10 https://www.ftc.gov/system/files/documents/plain-language/1001a-influencer-guide-508_1.pd

11 https://www.ftc.gov/system/files/ftc_gov/pdf/warning-letter-american-bev.pdf
https://www.ftc.gov/system/files/ftc_gov/pdf/warning-letter-canadian-sugar.pdf

© 2024 Wilson Elser
For more news on Targeted Online Marketing, visit the NLR Communications, Media, and Internet section.

“Is SEO Dead?” Why AI Isn’t the End of Law Firm Marketing

With the emergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology, many business owners have feared that marketing as we know it is coming to an end. After all, Google Gemini is routinely surfacing AI-generated responses over organic search results, AI content is abundant, and AI-driven tools are being used more than ever to automate tasks previously performed by human marketers.

But it’s not all doom and gloom over here—there are many ways in which digital marketing, including Search Engine Optimization (SEO) —is alive and well. This is particularly true for the legal industry, where there are many limits to what AI can do in terms of content creation and client acquisition.

Here’s how the world of SEO is being impacted by AI, and what this means for your law firm marketing.

Law Firm Marketing in the Age of AI

The Economist put it best: the development of AI has resulted in a “tsunami of digital innovation”. From ChatGPT’s world-changing AI model to the invention of “smart” coffee machines, AI appears to be everything. And it has certainly shaken up the world of law firm marketing.

Some of these innovations include AI chatbots for client engagement, tools like Lex Machina and Premonition that use predictive analytics to generate better leads, and AI-assisted legal research. Countless more tools and formulas have emerged to help law firms streamline their operations, optimize their marketing campaigns, create content, and even reduce overhead.

So, what’s the impact? 

With AI, law firms have reduced their costs, leveraging automated tools instead of manual efforts. Legal professionals have access to more data to identify (and convert) quality leads. And it’s now easier than ever to create content at volume.

At the same time, though, many people question the quality and accuracy of AI content. Some argue that AI cannot capture the nuance of the human experience or understanding complex (and often emotional) legal issues. Even more, AI-generated images and content often lack a personalized touch.

One area of marketing that’s particularly impacted by this is SEO, as it is largely driven by real human behavior, interactions, and needs.

So, is SEO Dead?

Even though many of the tools and techniques of SEO for lawyers have changed, the impact of SEO is still alive and well. Businesses continue to benefit from SEO strategies, allowing their brands to surface in the search results and attract new customers. In fact, there may even be more opportunities to rank than ever before.

For instance, Google showcases not only organic results but paid search results, Google Map Pack, Images, News, Knowledge Panel, Shopping, and many more pieces of digital real estate. This gives businesses different content formats and keyword opportunities to choose from.

Also, evolution in the SEO landscape is nothing new. There have been countless algorithm changes over the years, often in response to user behavior and new technology. SEO may be different, but it’s not dead.

Why SEO Still Matters for Law Firms

With the SEO industry alive and well, it’s still important for law firms to have a strong organic presence. This is because Google remains the leading medium through which people search for legal services. If you aren’t ranking high in Google, it will be difficult to get found by potential clients.

Here are some of the many ways SEO still matters for law firms, even in the age of AI.

1. Prospective clients still use search engines

Despite the rise of AI-based tools, your potential clients rely heavily on search engines when searching for your services. Whether they’re looking for legal counsel or content related to specific legal issues, search engines remain a primary point of entry.

Now, AI tools can often assist in this search process, but they rarely replace it entirely. SEO ensures your firm is visible when potential clients search for these services.

2. Your competitors are ranking in Search

Conduct a quick Google search of “law firm near me,” and you’ll likely see a few of your competitors in the search results. Whether they’re implementing SEO or not, their presence is a clear indication that you’ll need some organic momentum in order to compete.

Again, potential clients are using Google to search for the types of services you offer, but if they encounter your competitors first, they’re likely to inquire with a different firm. With SEO, you help your law firm stand out in the search results and become the obvious choice for potential clients.

3. AI relies on search engine data

The reality is that AI tools actually harness search engine data to train their models. This means the success of AI largely depends on people using search engines on a regular basis. Google isn’t going anywhere, so AI isn’t likely to go anywhere, either!

Whether it’s voice search through virtual assistants or AI-driven legal content suggestions, these systems still rely on the vast resources that search engines like Google organize. Strong SEO practices are essential to ensure your law firm’s website is part of that data pool. AI can’t bypass search engines entirely, so optimizing for search ensures your firm remains discoverable.

4. AI can’t replace personalized content

Only as a lawyer do you have the experience and training to advise clients on complex legal issues. AI content — even if only in your marketing — will only take you so far. Potential clients want to read content that’s helpful, relatable, and applicable to their needs.

While AI can generate content and provide answers, legal services are inherently personal. Writing your own content or hiring a writer might be your best bet for creating informative, well-researched content. AI can’t replicate the nuanced understanding that comes from a real lawyer, as your firm is best equipped to address clients’ specific legal issues.

5. SEO is more than just “content”

In the field of SEO, a lot of focus is put on content creation. And while content is certainly important (in terms of providing information and targeting keywords), it’s only one piece of the pie. AI tools are not as skilled at the various aspects of SEO, such as technical SEO and local search strategies.

Local SEO is essential for law firms, as most law firms serve clients within specific geographical areas. Google’s algorithm uses localized signals to determine which businesses to show in search results. This requires an intentional targeting strategy, optimizing your Google Business Profile, submitting your business information to online directories, and other activities AI tools have yet to master.

AI doesn’t replace the need for local SEO—if anything, AI-enhanced local search algorithms make these optimizations even more critical!

Goodbye AI, hello SEO?

Overall, the legal industry is a trust-based business. Clients want to know they work with reputable attorneys who understand their issues. AI is often ill-equipped to provide that level of expertise and personalized service.

Further, AI tools have limitations regarding what they can optimize, create, and manage. AI has not done away with SEO but has undoubtedly changed the landscape. SEO is an essential part of any law firm’s online marketing strategy.

AI is unlikely to disappear any time soon, and neither is SEO!

Copyright 2024 © Hennessey Digital
For more news on AI and Law Firm Marketing, visit the NLR Communications Media Internet section.

August 2024 Legal Industry News Updates: Law Firm Hiring and Expansion, Industry Awards and Recognition, DEI and Women in Law

Thank you for reading the National Law Review’s legal industry news roundup for August 2024. We hope you are enjoying your summer! Please read below for the latest in law firm hiring and expansion news, key industry awards and recognition and a feature on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) and women in law.

Law Firm Hiring and Expansion

Barnes & Thornburg expanded its downtown Chicago office, marking the city’s largest law firm lease transaction to date in 2024. The firm’s office, located in the Irvine Company’s trophy tower at One North Wacker, will grow by 30 percent under this expansion. Barnes & Thornburg’s Chicago office currently has more than 135 attorneys and is one of the 25 largest law offices in Chicago.

“Our One North Wacker office has long served as a crucial hub for collaboration and innovation among our attorneys, business professionals, clients, and community partners,” said Michael A. Carrillo, managing partner of Barnes & Thornburg’s Chicago office. “This new, expanded space will help us foster even more in-person connection, bringing our legal capabilities and service to the next level.”

“Chicago businesses are facing increasingly complex legal and regulatory hurdles,” added Andrew J. Detherage, firm managing partner. “Not only will this new lease extend our commitment to innovation and collaboration and help our attorneys provide the robust and sophisticated counsel needed to tackle such challenges, it will also deepen our footprint in a market critical to the firm’s long-term growth strategy.”

Jackson Lewis welcomed William “Billy” Jackson and Eric B. Moody as principals in its Norfolk and Tampa offices, respectively.

Mr. Jackson earned his J.D. from Stanford Law School and his B.A. from Brigham Young University. His practice is focused on white-collar criminal defense and conducting internal investigations for companies facing allegations of misconduct.

“We are thrilled to welcome Billy to the Norfolk team,” said Norfolk office managing principal and litigation manager Kristin H. Vaquera. “His deep understanding of government investigations and enforcement actions will be a tremendous asset to our clients, helping them navigate the complexities of regulatory compliance.”

Mr. Moody received his J.D. from Stetson University College of Law and his B.S. from the University of South Florida. He represents clients in labor and employment litigation issues and in actions brought under federal and state consumer protection statutes.

Benjamin D. Sharkey, the managing principal at Jackson Lewis’s Tampa office, welcomed Mr. Moody to the team: “His impressive track record in handling high-stakes litigation—from discrimination and retaliation claims to wage and hour disputes—will significantly strengthen our ability to deliver strategic, results-driven solutions. We are excited to have Eric join us and look forward to the exceptional contributions he will make to our team.”

Bradley appointed three new office managing partners, in addition to three new practice group leaders. The new office managing partners are:

The new practice group leaders are:

“These new leadership appointments are part of the firm’s continued commitment to identifying and nurturing talent that will ensure Bradley’s future success and help us meet the evolving needs of our clients,” said Bradley chairman of the board and managing partner Jonathan M. Skeeters.

Sandra K. Newman and Rebecca Eberhardt joined Venable LLP as the firm’s first private wealth planning practitioners in its Chicago office. Ms. Newman and Ms. Eberhardt focus their practices on wealth, estate and gift tax planning, philanthropic planning, trusts and estates.

“We are thrilled to get two of the best private wealth practice attorneys in Chicago to join our office,” said Kenneth Roberts, managing partner at Venable Chicago. “We continue to attract top-tier talent, and their addition is a big win for Venable and the needs of our clients.”

Legal Industry Awards and Recognition

Bracewell announced that partners K. Brock Bailey and Aaron P. Roffwarg were named to Lawdragon’s 2024 500 Leading Global Real Estate Lawyers list.

Lawdragon provides free online editorial features and news, as well as guides to top US lawyers in different practice areas based on their work from the past year. This year’s list includes various geographic markets.

Mr. Bailey is the managing partner of Bracewell’s Dallas office, as well as a member of the firm’s management committee. He represents developers, borrowers, owners and lenders in the development and acquisition of large commercial and industrial projects.

Mr. Roffwarg is the chair of Bracewell’s Real Estate practice in the firm’s Houston office, who counsels clients on property and construction project transactions, including complex midstream oil and gas projects, pipelines and terminals.

Anthony (Tony) Oncidi, co-chair of Proskauer’s Labor & Employment Department, was named a 2024 Top Labor & Employment Lawyer in California by the Daily Journal.

Mr. Oncidi is a partner in Proskauer’s Los Angeles office who heads the West Coast Labor & Employment group. His experience in high-end employment law with nation-wide employers has established him as a trusted advisor and litigator in non-compete covenants and whistleblower claims.

The Daily Journal is a nationwide corporation which provides attorneys with up-to-date information and news that they require for their practice, including webinars, legal notices, quizzes and resources.

Moore & Van Allen announced that their Patent practice group was ranked in top categories in 2024 Patent Bots Patent Quality Rankings, including as a Top 10 firm in networking, multiplexing, cable and security.

Patent Bots offers patent-specific machine-learning tools and interfaces, with the rankings being made from evaluations over the year of issued patents.

Moore & Van Allen’s team offers a wide range of patent services, such as prosecution and validity options. They also assist clients with due diligence review, litigation, research and development agreements and management and development of patent portfolios.

DEI and Women in Law

Corporate Counsel recognized Amber Rogers, hiring partner of Hunton Andrews Kurth’s Dallas office and a member of the firm’s executive committee, with a 2024 Women, Influence & Power in Law Award.

Corporate Counsel will celebrate Ms. Rogers’ Collaborative Leadership award, designated for women leaders and allies demonstrating commitment to advancing and empowering women in law, on September 24 at the Women, Influence & Power in Law Conference in Chicago.

Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly awarded CMBG3 Law the 2024 Empowering Women award, bestowed on law firms exhibiting strong commitment and support for women attorneys in Massachusetts.

As a majority women-owned law firm since its inception, CMBG3 Law continues its dedication to empowering women attorneys. Over half of the firm’s professionals are women and women comprise over 80% of the firm’s Senior Leadership Team.

Erin Toomey, partner at Foley & Lardner LLP, was acclaimed as one of Michigan Lawyers Weekly‘s Influential Women of Law. The Influential Women of Law awards honor women attorneys for excellence in work, commitment to community and service to the profession.

Ms. Toomey is a partner in the firm’s Government Procurement and Government Solutions Practices, where she helps businesses minimize their risk and maximize their recovery in government contracting.

Daniel Attaway, partner at Womble Bond Dickinson, took part in the Moments to Movements Hackathon. The Hackathon, hosted by Diversity Lab, is a “shark-tank style pitch competition” that meets to solve some of the most challenging DEI issues facing the legal industry.

Mr. Attaway practices life sciences and pharmaceutical law, representing clients in patent litigation and trade secrets. He also serves on the firm’s diversity committee and is co-chair of the firm’s IP content committee.

Copyright ©2024 National Law Forum, LLC

by: The National Law Review of The National Law Review / The National Law Forum LLC – NLR

For more news on Legal Industry News Updates, visit the NLR Law Office Management section.

June 2024 Legal Industry News Updates: Law Firm Hiring and Expansion, Industry Awards and Recognition

Welcome back to another edition of our legal industry news roundup, and happy summer from the whole team at the National Law Review! Please read below for the latest in law firm hiring and expansion news and key industry awards and recognition.

Law Firm Hiring and Expansion

Bradley Arant Boult Cummings’ Atlanta office continues to grow with the addition of partners Jeff S. Luechtefeld, John Nail and Sean R. Gannon, senior attorney Gabriella Cole and associate Jessica R. Stephan as members of the firm’s Tax Practice Group. The firm’s Atlanta office has more than doubled in size since it was established in May 2023.

Mr. Luechtefeld earned his LL.M. in Taxation from the University of Florida Levin College of Law, his J.D. from the University of Missouri Columbia School of Law and his B.S. in Finance from Missouri State University. Mr. Nail earned his J.D. (cum laude) at Wake Forest University School of Law and his B.S. from the College of Charleston. Mr. Gannon earned his LL.M. in Taxation at the University of Florida Levin College of Law, his J.D. from Western Michigan University Thomas M. Cooley Law School and his B.A. from Michigan State University. The new partners represent Fortune 500 companies, closely held businesses and high-net-worth individuals in IRS examinations, appeals and litigation, as well as other tax issues.

Ms. Cole received her J.D. from the University of Houston Law Center, her M.B.A. from the University of Houston C.T. Bauer College of Business and her B.S. (magna cum laude) from Kennesaw State University. Her practice focuses on tax controversy law and representing corporations and individuals against the IRS and state departments throughout the audit, administrative appeals and litigation processes.

Ms. Stephan received her J.D. from the University of Southern California Gould School of Law, an LL.M. in Taxation from the University of Florida Levin College of Law and a B.B.A. (summa cum laude) in Finance from Mississippi State University. She advises partnerships, corporations and individuals in federal and state tax disputes.

Bradley Atlanta office managing partner Sidney S. Welch welcomed the new members of the Tax Practice Group: “We are delighted that this group of highly accomplished tax controversy attorneys is joining the firm. Their significant litigation experience and deep understanding of the IRS allows them to offer strategic solutions for our clients. The addition of these attorneys also strengthens and enhances Bradley’s federal tax controversy capabilities, as well as being synergistic with the firm’s government enforcement and investigations work. The Atlanta office is continuing our growth strategy with tremendous legal talent, and we look forward to their collaboration.”

ArentFox Schiff announced the addition of 17 members to the firm’s Technology, Life Sciences, Intellectual Property and Complex Litigation services in the Boston office. With these new additions, the firm’s Boston office has grown by more than 40% in 2024.

New additions to the IP team include partners Joseph M. Maraia, Dr. Daniel W. Clarke, Christopher Carroll, Laura L. Carroll, Brooke A. Penrose, Paul A. Pysher and Howard J. Susser; counsel Shawn P. Foley, Bruce D. Jobse and Joseph P. Quinn; and six associates and patent agents. Litigation partner Shepard Davidson has also joined ArentFox Schiff and will continue to focus his practice on complex business torts and contract claims. Among these new firm members are a former patent examiner, a master electrician and a molecular microbiology Ph.D., all of whom offer unique insights to clients in specialized and technical industries.

“ArentFox Schiff has long had a preeminent IP practice, and one of our strategic goals was to further expand this in Boston with a focus on life sciences, patent, litigation, trademark, and general IP services,” said chairman Anthony V. Lupo. “Adding this talented team helps us accomplish that goal. This group’s clients also fit strategically into our industry approach to the business of law, and based on our prior success with laterals and groups, we anticipate a number of opportunities to significantly grow revenue.”

“Thanks to its many leading universities, research institutions, and cutting-edge companies, the Boston area continues to be a hub for innovation that demands top-tier IP services,” added Boston managing partner David M. Barbash. “Adding this highly respected group of attorneys will offer immense benefits to our clients in New England and across the country as they grow their businesses.”

Varnum formed a Health Care Artificial Intelligence (AI) Task Force focused on the use of AI technologies and machine learning in the health care industry. The Health Care AI Task Force consists of attorneys with particular expertise in health care law, data privacy and AI technologies, and is led by four partners who regularly advise health care clients on regulatory compliance and counsel large corporations on innovative technologies and privacy regulations.

The goal of the task force is to help health care organizations protect sensitive patient data and maintain high clinical standards through advising on AI integration, promoting privacy and data security, assisting in policy development and fostering risk management.

Sarah Wixson, who co-chairs Varnum’s Health Care Practice Team, noted the increasing importance of AI for health practitioners.

“As AI continues to evolve, it is crucial for health care providers to stay ahead of the curve by understanding and adhering to the legal frameworks that govern these technologies,” Ms. Wixson said. “Our task force is committed to helping our clients navigate this complex landscape.”

“Our goal is to provide our clients with the guidance they need to adopt AI technologies,” said data privacy attorney Jeff Stefan. “We are helping clients leverage the power of these revolutionary advancements and avoid their equally significant risks.

Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP expanded their New York office with the addition of financial services partner Mike Katz. With significant experience in crypto, payments, emerging company and venture capital, Mr. Katz will expand Manatt’s blockchain capabilities.

Mr. Katz is a strategic adviser to emerging growth companies and investors and a counsel to tech companies and venture funds. He provides advice to startups and venture capital funds to navigate overlapping corporate and regulatory issues. He earned his J.D. from Columbia Law School and his B.A. from the University of Pennsylvania.

“As I have seen firsthand, Manatt’s interdisciplinary and entrepreneurial approach to client service is extremely effective, and I am excited to join this team to help with leading the expansion of the Firm’s blockchain capabilities and support our clients across all aspects of financial services and venture capital,” said Mr. Katz. “Innovation-focused companies and investors are at the forefront of my practice every day, and Manatt is the perfect platform for me to bring experience to bear for clients across the Firm. I look forward to leveraging my varied in-house, corporate and regulatory skills to further enhance the Firm’s reputation as the go-to adviser for companies at the frontlines of innovation.”

Legal Industry Awards and Recognition

The 2024 Chambers USA Guide recognized Greenberg Traurig’s Data Privacy & Cybersecurity Practice in Band 1 for Nationwide Privacy & Data Security: Highly Regarded for the fourth year in a row. The guide’s “Privacy & Data Security: Privacy” category also recognized shareholders Liz Harding and David A. Zetoony, co-chair of the U.S. Data Privacy & Cybersecurity Practice.

Chambers and Partners selects attorneys and practices for the guide based on thousands of interviews with practicing lawyers and clients on a global scale. Chambers USA provides legal data and analytics to inform buyers of legal services of the top lawyers and law firms in the United States. Overall, the 2024 Chambers USA Guide recognized 273 Greenberg Traurig attorneys.

Claire Weglarz, partner at Womble Bond Dickinson, was elected to the Board of Directors of Trial Attorneys of America, a group of private practice attorneys and corporate counsel focused on the defense of products liability litigation. Membership in Trial Attorneys of America is by invitation only and is based on the recommendation of a member.

Ms. Weglarz is a member of Womble Bond Dickinson’s Product Liability Litigation team in the firm’s Los Angeles office. She represents energy, chemicals, manufacturing, automotive and consumer goods industry clients, and is involved in high-risk litigation on cases involving product liability, premises liability, environmental claims and toxic exposures to chemicals.

Chambers USA and The Legal 500 US recognized Andrea (Andie) S. Kramer in their 2024 nationwide rankings of leading tax lawyers. Specifically, Chambers USA included Ms. Kramer as a top tax and derivatives lawyer, and she was one of only four lawyers named to The Legal 500 Hall of Fame for Tax, Financial Products in the United States for 2024.

Ms. Kramer is a solo practitioner providing integrated legal counsel on regulatory, governance, commercial and tax matters to her clients.

“Each year, Chambers and Partners and The Legal 500 conduct unbiased research on lawyers around the world—and their independence encourages us all to be better,” said Ms. Kramer. “It has been a strong, productive, and interesting 18 months for ASKramer Law—and our clients and colleagues have gone the extra mile with these ranking agencies to underscore our commitment to legal excellence and great service.”

BTI Consulting Group’s 2024 report recognized Jackson Lewis P.C. attorneys Stephanie Adler-Paindiris, Ross M. Gardner and Alessandro “Alex” G. Villanella as Client Service All-Stars. Attorneys are named as Client Service All-Stars for their client service excellence and commitment to fulfilling their clients’ needs. The BTI Client Service All-Stars list is based on feedback gathered from over 350 in-depth, confidential and unsolicited interviews.

Ms. Adler-Paindiris is a principal in the firm’s Orlando office, a member of the firm’s Board of Directors and co-leader of the firm’s Litigation group. She defends class and collective actions on behalf of employers and counsels clients on workplace challenges. Mr. Gardner is a principal in the firm’s Omaha office who represents management throughout traditional labor law and related litigation. Mr. Villanella is a principal in the firm’s Long Island office, whose practice focuses on collective bargaining, labor arbitration, contract administration and representation and unfair labor practice proceedings before the National Labor Relations Board.

“Stephanie, Ross and Alex are true champions of problem-solving for our clients,” said firm chair Kevin Lauri. “They understand exactly what clients need and effortlessly craft solutions that tackle immediate issues and safeguard against future challenges. They uphold the firm’s client service standards to the highest degree, and the entire firm congratulates them on this accomplishment.”

Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. partner Allan M. Siegel was awarded the 2024 Trial Lawyer of the Year Award by the Trial Lawyers Association of Metropolitan Washington, D.C. He received this honor at the association’s Annual Awards Dinner at Nationals Park in Washington, D.C.

Mr. Siegel graduated magna cum laude in from The George Washington University and earned his J.D. from The George Washington University’s National Law Center. His practice is centered on personal injury cases related to automobile and commercial vehicle negligence, premises liability and medical malpractice. He is board-certified in civil trial law by the National Board of Trial Advocacy, an honor held by only 3% of attorneys in the United States.

Copyright ©2024 National Law Forum, LLC
For more news on Law Firm Expansions and Legal Awards, visit the NLR Law Office Management section.

How Lawyers Can Effectively Leverage Their Published Articles

Writing and publishing articles or blog posts can be a powerful branding and business development tool for lawyers. Not only do they demonstrate your expertise in your practice area, but they also significantly enhance your visibility and credibility.

However, your work doesn’t end once the article is published – in fact, it’s just beginning. Here are some tips to maximize the value, reach and impact of your published work.

1. Optimize for Online Search First and foremost, ensure your article is search engine optimized (SEO). This means incorporating relevant keywords that potential clients might use to find information related to your legal expertise. SEO increases the visibility of your content on search engines like Google, making it easier for your target audience to find you.

2. Share on Social Media Utilize your personal and professional social media platforms to share your article. LinkedIn, Twitter and even Facebook are excellent venues for reaching other professionals and potential clients. Don’t just share it once; periodically repost it, especially if the topic is evergreen. Engage with comments and discussions to further boost your post’s visibility.

3. Incorporate Into Newsletters If you or your firm sends out a regular newsletter, include a link to your article. This not only provides added value to your subscribers but also keeps your existing client base engaged with your latest insights and activities. This approach can help reinforce your position as a thought leader in your field. Also, consider launching a LinkedIn newsletter. LinkedIn’s platform offers a unique opportunity to reach a professional audience directly, increasing the potential for networking and attracting new clients who are actively interested in your area of expertise.

4. Speak at Conferences and Seminars Use your article as a springboard to secure speaking engagements. Conferences, seminars and panel discussions often look for experts who can contribute interesting insights. Your article can serve as a proof of your expertise and a teaser of your presentation content, making you an attractive candidate for these events.

5. Create Multimedia Versions Expand the reach of your article by adapting it into different formats. Consider recording a podcast episode discussing the topic in depth, or creating a short-form video for LinkedIn and YouTube. These formats can attract different segments of your audience and make the content more accessible.

6. Network Through Professional Groups Share your article in professional groups and online forums in your field, as well as alumni groups (law school, undergrad school and former firms). This can lead to discussions with peers and can even attract referrals. Active participation in these groups, coupled with sharing insightful content, can significantly expand your professional network.

7. Use as a Teaching Resource Offer to guest lecture at local law schools and use your article as a teaching resource. This not only enhances your reputation as an expert but also builds relationships with the upcoming generation of lawyers who could become colleagues or refer clients in the future.

8. Repurpose Content for Blogs or Articles Break down the article into smaller blog posts or develop certain points further into new articles. This can help maintain a consistent stream of content on your website, which is good for SEO and keeps your audience engaged over time.

9. Monitor and Engage with Feedback Keep an eye on comments and feedback from your article across all platforms. Engaging with readers can provide insights into what your audience finds useful, shaping your future writing to better meet their needs. It also helps in building a loyal following.

10. Track Metrics Utilize analytics tools (web, social media and email) to track how well your article performs in terms of views, shares and engagement. This data can help you understand what works and what doesn’t, guiding your content strategy for future articles.

11. Leverage the Power of Content Repurposing Content repurposing can significantly extend the life and reach of your original article. By transforming the article into different content formats—such as infographics, webinars, slide decks or even e-books—you cater to various learning styles and preferences, reaching a broader audience. This strategy not only maximizes your content’s exposure but also enhances engagement by presenting the information in new, accessible ways. Repurposing content can help solidify your reputation as a versatile and resourceful expert in your field.

Publishing an article or blog post is just the beginning. By strategically promoting and leveraging your published works, you can enhance your visibility, establish yourself as a thought leader and attract more clients. Every article has the potential to open new doors; it’s up to you to make sure it does!

Copyright © 2024, Stefanie M. Marrone. All Rights Reserved.
For more news on Leveraging Published Articles, visit the NLR Law Office Management section.

Smart Lawyer Marketing: The Benefits of Becoming an Adjunct Professor or Guest Lecturer

If you’re a lawyer looking to stand out and grow your practice, here’s a strategy worth considering: becoming an adjunct professor or guest lecturer. This isn’t just about adding a title to your resume; it’s about enriching your professional credentials, elevating your personal brand, building connections with the community and opening doors to new opportunities. Here’s why venturing into academia could be a smart move for your legal career and how to do it.

  • A Spotlight on Your Expertise: Engaging in a teaching role will elevates your visibility within the academic and legal communities. Universities are vibrant ecosystems of learning, networking and professional exchange. By sharing your knowledge and experience in such settings, you not only enrich the learning environment but also spotlight your expertise to a broader audience. It’s an effective way to get noticed and remembered in the circles that matter.
  • Networking with Purpose: Teaching at a university isn’t just about imparting knowledge; it’s a dynamic platform for meaningful networking. Every semester offers a new opportunity to connect with ambitious students, fellow educators, and visiting professionals. These connections can lead to new business opportunities, collaborations and referrals. Building a network in such a rich environment can provide a steady stream of advantages for your legal practice.
  • Establishing Your Thought Leadership: There’s no better place to showcase your legal acumen than in a classroom or lecture hall. Teaching allows you to demonstrate your depth of knowledge and commitment to your field, helping to establish you as a thought leader among your peers and potential clients. Engaging with students and faculty on complex legal issues not only reinforces your standing but also keeps you at the cutting edge of legal developments.
  • The Dual Benefit of Learning: While teaching, lawyers often find themselves learning alongside their students. Because a professor and lecturer must stay current and deeply understand the subjects they teach acts as a catalyst for personal and professional growth. This continuous learning cycle not only enhances your legal practice but also ensures that your teaching is informed, relevant and highly valued.

How to Become an Adjunct Professor or Guest Lecturer

If you’re interested in becoming an adjunct professor or guest lecturer, here are some steps to get you started:

  • Get Your Credentials and Experience in Order: An advanced degree is usually required for adjunct positions, but if you’re eyeing more prestigious spots or specialized subjects, a PhD might be necessary. Beyond degrees, real-world experience in your field isn’t just icing on the cake—it’s another layer of cake. It shows you can apply what you teach outside the classroom, making your lessons more relevant and engaging.
  • Network Like a Pro: Building connections is key in academia, but think of it as making friends rather than networking. Attend events, engage in discussions and be active in online communities related to your field. It’s about finding your tribe—people who share your interests and can tip you off to opportunities you might not find on your own.
  • Bolster Your Teaching Credentials: If teaching isn’t something you’ve done a lot of, look for opportunities to get some practice. This could be anything from volunteer teaching gigs, leading workshops or even taking on a teaching assistant role. These experiences are valuable not just for what they teach you about instructing others, but they also give you stories and insights you can share when you apply for jobs.
  • Polish Your Application: Your application is your chance to shine. Make sure your CV is not only comprehensive but clear and engaging. Cover letters should be tailored to each application, showing why you’re excited about the position and what makes you a great fit. Don’t forget a teaching statement that reflects your unique approach and philosophy towards education.
  • Apply Thoughtfully: While casting a wide net could result in the kind of role you are seeking, aim for opportunities that truly resonate with your expertise and teaching style. Explore various institutions, from community colleges to universities, and don’t overlook less traditional teaching environments that might be in need of your particular skill set.
  • Stay Curious and Keep Growing: Staying informed and continually developing your skills is important. Seek out professional development opportunities, stay abreast of new research in your field and be open to new teaching techniques (including technology advancements) and methodologies. Your growth as a professional not only enriches your teaching but also makes you more attractive to potential employers.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • Enhanced Visibility: Teaching roles at universities put you in front of an engaged audience, amplifying your professional visibility.
  • Strategic Networking: The academic environment offers unparalleled networking opportunities with future and current lawyers, colleagues and industry experts.
  • Thought Leadership: Sharing your expertise as a teacher reinforces your status as a knowledgeable and respected professional in your field.
  • Continuous Learning: The act of teaching encourages ongoing education, keeping you at the forefront of legal developments and practices.

Teaching as an adjunct professor or guest lecturer offers a lawyers strategic benefits beyond traditional networking and marketing efforts. It provides a platform for visibility, a hub for networking, a stage for establishing thought leadership and an opportunity for personal growth.

Copyright © 2024, Stefanie M. Marrone. All Rights Reserved.
For more news on Law Firm Marketing, visit the NLR Law Office Management section.

Three Ways to Get Lawyers to Fall In Love with Marketing Technology

While it may (or may not) be shocking that 50% of marriages end in divorce, what may be a more jarring statistic is how 77% of lawyers have experienced a failed technology implementation. And while some may take a second or even third chance at marriage, you rarely get a second chance at a marketing technology implementation, especially at a law firm.

Today’s legal industry is hyper-competitive, firms are asking attorneys to learn new skills and adopt new technology like artificial intelligence, eMarketing, or experience management systems. So, lawyers should be eager to embrace any MarTech that could help them gain an advantage, right? Unfortunately, fewer than 40% of lawyers use a CRM, and only slightly more than a quarter of them use it for sales pipeline management.

When considering lawyers’ love/hate relationship with their firm’s marketing technology infrastructure, it is important to consider the lawyer’s perspective when it comes to change management and technology adoption. By nature, lawyers are skeptical, hypercritical, risk-averse, and reluctant to change. These attributes are certainly beneficial for practicing law, but not so much for encouraging marketing technology adoption. This is why it can sometimes feel like you are herding cats, except these cats are extremely smart, have opposable thumbs, and argue for sport.

While lawyers and technology might not seem like a match made in heaven, you can follow these steps to ensure greater adoption and utilization of your marketing technology:

1. Needs Assessment

The beauty of technology is that it can do so many things, the problem with technology is… it can do so many things. For technology to succeed it has to adequately satisfy the end users’ needs. Because each firm has its own set of unique needs, technology selection should start with a needs assessment. Interviews should be conducted with key stakeholders to determine your organization’s specific needs and requirements.

As a follow-up to the needs assessment, interview user groups like attorneys, partners and even their assistants, to understand their needs and requirements, and understand their day-to-day processes and problems. These groups each define value differently, meaning that each group will have its own unique needs or set of requirements. Making these users part of the process upfront will increase the likelihood they’ll adopt the technology later on.

2. Communicate

Like any good love affair, a successful technology deployment requires extensive communication. Attorneys must be convinced that the technology will not only benefit the firm, but them individually. It can be helpful to take the time to craft a formal communication plan -starting with an announcement coming from firm leadership outlining the system’s benefits. Realistic expectations should be set, not only for the system but also for user requirements.

Next, establish, document, and distribute any processes and procedures necessary to support the implementation. Most importantly, sharing is caring, so always communicate when goals have been reached or solicit feedback from the end users.

3. Resources

All good relationships require attention. Oftentimes, firms forget to account for the long-term costs associated with a technology deployment. For a successful technology deployment, firms must dedicate necessary resources including time, money, and people. It also takes the coordinated efforts of everyone in the firm, so be sure to invite everyone who may need to be involved, such as:

  • Technical support to assist with implementation and integrations
  • Training programs with outlined criteria for different user groups
  • Data stewards (internal or outsourced) to make sure data is clean, correct and complete
  • The marketing and business development departments that will be tasked with developing and executing a communication strategy
  • Firm leadership and key attorneys whose support can be used to drive adoption

© Copyright 2024 CLIENTSFirst Consulting

by: Christina R. Fritsch JD of CLIENTSFirst Consulting

For more news on Legal Marketing, visit the NLR Law Office Management section.

How to Maximize February’s Holidays for Your Social Media Content Calendar

February, though the shortest month, is rich with opportunities for lawyers and law firms to deepen connections with their audience and spotlight their commitment to pivotal social causes. From raising awareness on privacy and internet safety to celebrating historical contributions and advocating for health, this month is ripe for engagement. Here’s a guide on leveraging these special days to not only boost your firm’s social media footprint but also to underscore your expertise and societal commitments.

  • Engage with #PrivacyAwarenessWeek (First Week of February): Kick off the month by demystifying privacy laws and sharing protective measures for personal data. Consider hosting webinars or interactive Q&A sessions to discuss privacy-related topics.
  • Participate in #SaferInternetDay (Second Tuesday of February): Highlight the importance of cybersecurity with informative articles or infographics. Provide valuable insights through free digital security workshops or consultations.
  • Celebrate #WorldJusticeDay (February 20): Showcase your firm’s dedication to justice by spotlighting pro bono work and initiatives that champion social justice. Share impactful stories that illustrate your contributions to upholding justice.
  • Honor #BlackHistoryMonth (Throughout February): Dedicate the month to celebrating the achievements of African American legal luminaries. Engage in discussions about diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) within the legal field and share how your firm is actively supporting these values.
  • Promote #AmericanHeartMonth (Throughout February): Focus on heart health awareness, sharing wellness tips and how your firm supports the well-being of its people and clients. This is an excellent opportunity to show the human side of your firm. Organize or partake in health-focused community events and share wellness tips that encourage a balanced professional life.
  • Reflect on #PresidentsDay (Third Monday of February): Delve into the legal legacies of U.S. Presidents and their influence on current laws. Host enlightening discussions or debates on historical legal precedents and their relevance today.
  • Recognize #InventorsDay (February 11): For IP-focused firms or firms with IP practices, spotlight groundbreaking inventors and their journeys through the legal system. Share advice on navigating the patent process and protecting intellectual property.
  • Embrace #RandomActsOfKindnessDay (February 17): Inspire your team and followers by engaging in and sharing acts of kindness within your community. This day is a great opportunity to humanize your firm and reflect its values.
  • Inform during #ConsumerProtectionWeek (Last week of February): End the month by enlightening the public on consumer rights and the legal frameworks that protect them. Host free legal clinics or informative sessions to empower consumers with knowledge.
  • Celebrate #ValentinesDay (February 14): Utilize this day to express appreciation for your clients and colleagues. A simple message of thanks can go a long way in strengthening relationships.
  • Leverage #GroundhogDay (February 2): Incorporate Groundhog Day as a fun way to engage your audience. Perhaps draw a light-hearted parallel between the groundhog seeing its shadow and predicting weather patterns to the predictability and preparation in legal processes. It’s an opportunity to showcase your firm’s personality and connect with your audience on a relatable level.

When using hashtags, be strategic and relevant; use popular hashtags like #ValentinesDay, #BlackHistoryMonth or #PresidentsDay to increase visibility, but also incorporate niche or branded hashtags to stand out and engage directly with your target audience. Always ensure your content is respectful, inclusive and aligns with your brand’s values. Creatively linking your products or services to these holidays can boost engagement, foster a deeper connection with your audience and enhance your brand’s presence on social media.

February’s diverse holidays present a unique platform for law firms to engage with their audience on a deeper level. By actively participating in these observances, your firm not only enhances its visibility but also fortifies its relationship with the community. This strategic approach to social media not only highlights your expertise and services but also showcases your firm’s dedication to important societal issues and causes.

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