Social Media Guidelines

Firm Issues

Social media presents a number of human resources, ethical and risk management issues for lawyers and firms.

Foremost, a firm's professional liability insurance may require a social media policy, we are told.

As well, some firms are issuing policies or guidelines. Several with which are familiar say:

• Don't give legal advice
• When you discuss law firm matters do so in the first person
• Don't use the firm's logo without permission
• Don't cite or reference clients, partners or vendors without their approval
• If identified as an employee or partner with the law firm, ensure profile, connections and related content is consistent with how you wish to present yourself to colleagues and clients - and forever due to cache programs!
• Follow bar rules
• Consider a disclaimer "The postings on this site are my own and don't necessarily represent my firm's position, strategies or opinions."

We further advise those lawyers involved with social media sites to:

• Add value - your postings should provide worthwhile information and perspective
• Respect your audience - avoid being aggressive, slurs-even in jest, personal jibes, obscenities
• Show proper consideration for the privacy of others
• Avoid provocative topics, i.e. religion and politics

ALYN-WEISS & ASSOCIATES, INC.
Marketing | Business Development
1331 - 17th Street, Suite 410
Denver, CO 80202

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