Social Media & Attorneys: A Webinar Conversation with Social Media Attorney Scott Malouf

Social media attorney and expert Scott Malouf recently sat down with Smokeball’s Josh Taylor to discuss “Social Media & Attorneys“. The webinar conversation follows on the heels of Smokeball’s latest eBook, “Social Media Workbook for Attorneys”, authored by Scott. The webinar, “Social Media & Attorneys” is available on demand here, highlights three main considerations for attorneys utilizing social media: (1) success, (2) ethics, and (3) substance.

Scott’s experience in social media law is extensive to say the least. His expertise includes helping other lawyers identify social media evidence, and resulting claims, in all phases of litigation and investigations. He also helps organizations use social media for business, advising on social media guidelines, policies, practices and crisis response. Scott was recently appointed to the American Bar Association/BNA Lawyers Manual on Professional Conduct Editorial Advisory Board. He is also a contributor to the ABA publication Handbook on Global Social Media Laws for Business Lawyers. Scott is an active member of the New York State Bar Association’s Social Media Committee, where he co-authored the Social Media Ethics Guidelines and contributed to the Social Media Jury Instructions Report. Scott has appeared on television, NPR, before the National Advertising Division of the BBB, on behalf of the American Board of Trial Advocates, in podcasts, at CLEs and in many other forums. He received his B.A. from Hamilton College and his law degree from Vanderbilt University, and he is a licensed practitioner in both New York and Massachusetts.

Social media is a powerful tool to reach many potential clients, to attract talent, and to disseminate topical information. Attorneys, just as other business owners, can and should use it to build their “brand”. However, many lawyers either do not utilize this powerful (and often free) tool at all or use it improperly or unsuccessfully. Scott built his practice out of counseling and consulting with attorneys on how to make their social media presence successful, rules compliant, and substantive. This webinar is important for any attorney embarking on professional social media use for the first time, and even those wanting to ensure they are getting the most out of their online personae.

Defining Social Media Success

Scott begins by outlining what attorneys should be looking for in their social media activity. What defines a successful social media presence for a lawyer?

Avoiding Ethical Pitfalls

Josh and Scott continue to a discussion of ethics and protecting yourself and your brand online noting that attorneys, often conservative and slow when it comes to technology, get spooked by ethical concerns stemming from social media use. Scott offers his expertise and links to his and others’ work regarding staying compliant with professional rules while online. The underlying point is that attorneys must always be vigilant of the rules, but certain simple steps can be taken to alleviate concern. Scott gives simple things to help attorneys operate in social media comfortably and confidently.

What and When to Post

Repurpose, repurpose, repurpose! Scott discusses how content you or others write should be used in several different ways and formats. Get the most out of the work you do to stay ahead of the curve in your legal niche.
Ultimately, social media is an inexpensive (or free) way to get a firm’s name out there and for attorneys to show they know what they are talking about. Small firms not taking advantage of this inexpensive marketing route are missing out. Some choose not to participate due to concerns over if it will work, ethics issues, and even having enough time to keep on top of postings. This webinar shows clearly that these concerns are mostly unfounded, and lawyers can take easy steps to get their good name on social media.

View the full webinar with Scott Malouf and Smokeball’s Josh Taylor here.

Also, check out Smokeball’s and Scott’s companion eBook, “Social Media Workbook for Attorneys”. Jump into social media confidently!