Internet searches can be invaluable when it comes to selecting an attorney, helping narrow down options and make informed choices. They also give an opportunity for checking credentials and reputation.
Some of the more well-known lawyer review websites include Avvo, Justia and NOLO. These platforms enable clients to review their attorneys experience while also giving attorneys access to claim and update their profiles.
Referrals
Create a Lawyer Referral Program at Your FirmCreating a lawyer referral program is one of the most cost-effective and economical ways to expand your law firm. Although it takes time, successful attorney referral programs often bring new clients. However, key to its success lies in placing clients first – referrals work best when people know, trust and like the lawyers they’re sending their friends or family members too.
Many communities offer lawyer referral services that recommend attorneys based on their area of practice and competency. The American Bar Association’s state-by-state directory can assist in your search for one in your region.
If you decide to establish a legal referral arrangement, be sure to abide by the American Bar Association (ABA) rules on client referrals. For instance, no gifts can be exchanged for referrals and any reciprocal arrangements must be disclosed to clients (ABA Model Rule 7.2). Furthermore, agreements involving joint responsibility should be avoided as these could create conflicts of interest and ultimately hinder client relations.
Online
Searches online are becoming the primary method for people searching for legal services, with younger generations in particular increasingly turning to search engines to assess their legal needs. If you want to reach these customers effectively, having an informative website and strong presence across major directories and consumer review platforms are necessary in order to meet this demand.
The Clio report revealed that most legal consumers start their research for legal services by visiting law firm websites, Yelp reviews, or Google reviews. You can improve search engine optimization by adding useful content such as blog posts that answer frequently asked questions about specific legal cases; videos hosted on TikTok or YouTube may help your firm connect with potential clients more directly – for instance, by emphasizing unique experiences like being a pro wrestler to demonstrate you aren’t your average lawyer!
In-person consultations
In-person consultations provide clients with a sense of human connection that makes them feel engaged and appreciated, helping build trust between client and attorney. Furthermore, face-to-face meetings provide clarity regarding goals and a roadmap forward for their legal matter at hand.
Consultations in person may present unique challenges for clients unable to attend due to childcare needs, financial restrictions or disabilities; in addition, many may need to work during their consultation session making it hard to focus on just themselves for long enough.
Virtual consultations can be challenging due to technical glitches and off-topic conversations, leading to miscommunication between client and attorney and creating confusion for both. Furthermore, some participants tend to lack enthusiasm during virtual meetings which is unprofessional and causes clients to lose faith in the attorney. Luckily there are ways of mitigating these challenges and making in-person meetings more effective.
