Every Lawyer Needs a Website
A lawyer without a website is like an office without a door. Without a website, consumers seeking information about you on the internet have no way to enter your world. Studies show that a vast majority of consumers needing legal help will go online for more information. You need to be there.
Your website helps build a connection with prospective clients. People are apprehensive when calling a lawyer, but after reading about you on your website they will feel more comfortable making the call. A website that provides information about your practice builds credibility and trust. And, a website is a powerful and affordable way to market your practice.
The Five Essential Pages of Your Website
Home Page
Your home page is the digital lobby of your business. It’s the first page people see when they visit a site, so it should reflect your brand and present your firm in a professional and engaging manner. Analytics show that the majority of visitors leave after viewing the home page so make yours as interesting and informative as it can be.
About Us
Your client will hire a lawyer, not a law firm. The about us section is the place where she can read about individual lawyers and learn about their practice, experiences, and goals. Be sure to include photos of lawyers and staff.
Practice Areas
Describe your practice areas. Be clear on the services provided so clients know what type of attorney you are and what they can expect.
Contact Information
Your contact information should appear on each page, so make sure to include your email address, phone number, and address. Encourage visitors to connect with your business on social media. Include your hours of operation, directions, and parking information.
Reviews
Post reviews on your website. Ask to use a client's name with the review to give the endorsement greater credibility. Video testimonials are very popular, but short paragraphs also work. If you don't have any reviews yet, now is the time to contact satisfied clients and customers.
Those are the five basic pages each website should have, and they should be updated every quarter. Other pages to consider include a blog, a frequently asked questions page, and an appointment scheduler. Next week, we'll go over how you can use the SBM Member Directory with its many features as your website.
After years practicing law, Roberta Gubbins served as editor of the Ingham County Legal News. Since leaving the paper, she provides writing services to lawyers ghostwriting content for websites, blogs, and articles. She is editor of The Mentor, the SBM Master Lawyers Section newsletter.
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