2008 is just around the corner and it will be filled with many changes, new trends, and some old familiar items that never seem to get old…just better.

So what is old but new? The basics of Internet 101: A website (Hence the title of this blog)

Attorneys Online, Inc, a law firm marketing agency, has been around since 1998 and even though there have been light years of progress with technology there is still a staple to the internet world that is a “must have” if you want to have effective law firm internet marketing…a website.So for those of you that are still uncertain as to why you may need one for your law firm let’s go back to the basics and educate you on the many functions of this handy law firm internet marketing tool.

Law Firm Websites’ Roles (to name a few):

  1. To inform potential clients that you and your law firm exist!
    1. Everyone has a different method of searching for a lawyer. However using your website to help people find you is a great support system to whatever marketing tactics you use (Sponsored Search, TV, Phone Books, etc).
  2. To act as a virtual brochure
    1. Less paper, more coverage. Anyone with access to the internet can find out about you and all the basic information they need to decide if they should contact you for legal advice
  3. To screen clients by providing basic information about the law and your firm
    1. Frequently Asked Questions regarding your practice areas, and information about the cases you handle can help save time on the phone and in person
  4. To display your legal credentials and experience
    1. Including your CV helps with your credibility and to your experience in the field
    2. You can display all of your successful cases without bragging about it in person
  5. To make you and your law firm more approachable
    1. Pictures of you, your office, and other inviting images can serve as a first impression before they even walk in the door
  6. A means to communicate with you 24 hours a day
    1. If someone has a question at 2 a.m. they can use your website to send a simple e-mail inquiry for help and provide details you need in advance to inform you about what they need from you
  7. To give your firm a professional appearance and keep up with your competitors
    1. If you are accessible and informative when a potential client needs it most that is effective advertising. If you look good while doing it – with a sleek law firm web design – that’s professional.
    2. A good website for a sole practitioner’s firm can help you seem just as qualified as a large firm with 10 attorneys. A website levels the playing field with your competitors – large or small.

The list will continue to grow on the importance of law firm websites but these are just a few reasons why should add this vital tool to your law firm internet marketing tactics. Contact Attorneys Online Inc for information about how we can help you with your law firm marketing needs!