Social Media Marketing for Lawyers: What Works and What Doesn’t

In today’s digital-first world, lawyers can no longer ignore the power of social media. But with so many platforms and strategies, it’s easy to waste time on what doesn’t work. Here’s a quick breakdown of what’s effective and what to avoid.

✅ What Works

1. Educational Content
Law is complex. Break it down. Sharing bite-sized legal tips, FAQs, or myth-busting posts can establish you as a trusted authority. Think: “What to do if you’re in a car accident” or “Top 3 things to include in your will.”

2. Client Testimonials & Case Studies
(With permission) Share client success stories or anonymized case wins. This builds credibility and humanizes your practice.

3. Consistent Branding
Use a professional photo, your logo, and a cohesive tone. Whether you’re on LinkedIn, Instagram, or Facebook, make sure your branding aligns across all channels.

4. Engagement > Promotion
Respond to comments. Join local discussions. Ask questions. Social media is about being social—not just selling your services.

❌ What Doesn’t Work

1. Legal Jargon Overload
Avoid sounding like a textbook. Most of your audience isn’t made up of lawyers. Keep it simple and relatable.

2. Infrequent Posting
If you post once every few months, people forget you. Use a content calendar to stay consistent—even if it’s just once a week.

3. Ignoring the Platform’s Strengths
LinkedIn is great for thought leadership. Instagram thrives on visuals. Facebook favors community-based content. Don’t post the same thing everywhere without adapting it.

4. Talking at People, Not to Them
Too much self-promotion feels cold. Instead of “We’re the best at X,” try “Here’s how we helped someone in your situation.”

Final Thought

Social media doesn’t have to be a full-time job. A clear strategy and a human touch it can be a powerful tool to grow your legal practice ethically and effectively.