In the increasingly digital age that we live in, the way in which attorneys can safely leverage social media is a fitting area of concern. It simply isn’t strategic to ignore these platforms, given that they’ve become amongst the most significant sources of news and communication for many. More than ever, legal professionals need to be mindful of their online presence, so as to preserve the integrity of their work and protect their own as well as their clients’ interests.
The use of social media by lawyers isn’t a straightforward task. As Robert Johnson of the Institute for Justice succinctly put it, attorneys should refrain from posting anything online that they wouldn’t also include in their legal briefings. This is especially true when you consider that their posts might very well be seen by opposing counsel or even presiding judges. Above all else, discretion and professionalism must underscore any legal practitioner’s interaction with social media – neither of which should ever be compromised. Find more on this at the New York Law Journal.
Therefore, understanding the ropes of social media and being strategic in your use is paramount. As Robert Johnson suggests, being able to strike a balance between your online presence and your professional obligations is key to harnessing the power of these platforms – without causing any potential harm to yourself, your firm, or your clients.