BLOGs are one of the latest and greatest Internet inventions.  Not only do you, as an attorney, get to tell the world what is going on in the legal field, but you become a published author that has opinions and can provide clients with information.  Why is this so great?  While the reasons are endless, here are a few:  You can get your law firm’s name out there.  You can tout how you are the best and brightest.  And, best of all, you make contact with potential clients and start dialogues. 

But, some of our law firm clients are a little timid about providing too much information via the Internet.  Our clients ask us what is okay to mention and what is not.  The “rule of thumb” that we suggest is the same lesson that my mother taught me – “if you would not want it (the BLOG entry in this case) read in a court of law, do not put it in writing”.  That is not to say that you cannot give thoughts and opinions – controversy is often what sparks people’s interests most.  However, I would stop a little short of suggesting anarchy.  It is a great idea to say that your state’s legislature is proposing a new law that puts a cap on the damages that a client can receive and then give your opinion; it is likely that others want to know what exactly this law means (in layman’s terms).  It is a great idea to let people know that you just expanded your legal practice to include immigration law and what types of cases you want to target.  The possibilities are endless.  But just remember to be honest and be yourself – that is the most important thing. 

We also recommend that our clients make their BLOG biography’s (if they decide to put one up) personable.  You want clients to know who you are and what you do – not only that you are a lawyer who enjoys his job, but also that you are an avid tennis player who is also active in local politics.  So start your legal BLOG now and remember that my mother is almost always right.