Do potential legal clients expect to visit a lawyer's website?
With 70% of all potential clients first visiting a law firms website before making contact – even when they got a referral – it is important that they find you. Otherwise they will find someone else!
Many potential legal clients expect to visit a lawyer’s website before hiring them. A well-designed, informative website is often a client’s first point of contact and plays a crucial role in shaping their impression of the lawyer or law firm. Here’s why clients generally expect to visit a lawyer’s website:
They want answers to WHO, WHERE, WHAT, WHEN and HOW.
WHO – Who is the lawyer or law firm?
WHERE – Where are they located? Do they handle cases in my jurisdiction?
WHAT – What do they do? What problems do they solve?
WHEN – When are they available?
HOW – How do I contact them?
They are looking for:
Researching the Lawyer’s Background
– Credentials and Experience: Clients want to learn about the lawyer’s education, qualifications, and years of practice.
– Practice Areas: They look for information on whether the lawyer handles cases in the specific area of law they need (e.g., family law, criminal defense, personal injury).
– Reputation and Testimonials: Websites often feature client reviews or case studies that build trust and provide social proof.
Understanding Services
– Service Descriptions: Clients expect to see clear information about the services offered, typical processes, and potential outcomes.
– Case Examples or Results: Some clients are interested in success stories or notable cases that the lawyer has handled.
Pricing and Fees
– Fee Transparency: While not all lawyers list their fees on their websites, many clients expect at least some general information about fee structures (e.g., whether the firm charges hourly, flat fees, or contingency).
– Consultation Information: Clients often look for details on whether the lawyer offers free consultations or how they can book one.
Ease of Communication
– Contact Information: Clients expect to see a phone number, email address, office address, and possibly a contact form.
– Online Scheduling: Some clients appreciate the ability to schedule a consultation online, without needing to call.
– Articles or Case Studies: Clients often seek general legal information related to their concerns and might look for blog posts, articles, or Cast Studies that explain common legal issues.
Reputation and Professionalism
– First Impressions: A professional, easy-to-navigate website helps build credibility and trust. Poor website design, outdated content, or lack of crucial information may deter potential clients.
– Firm’s Image: Clients use websites to get a sense of the lawyer’s personality, values, and professionalism before they commit to a consultation.
Legal Resources and Education
– Educational Content: Many clients expect legal blogs, guides, or videos that help them understand basic legal concepts related to their case.
– Updates on Legal News: Websites often feature current news or changes in law, which can attract clients seeking a lawyer who is knowledgeable and up-to-date.
In today’s digital age, a website is often a potential client’s first impression, and many clients view it as essential for evaluating whether to contact or hire a lawyer. Without a website, a lawyer or law firm may miss out on clients who are accustomed to doing online research before making decisions.