Illinois Bar Rules for Attorney Advertising

The first step for any attorney who is ready to begin marketing a law practice online is to understand how the State of Illinois Bar Rules apply to internet advertising and website design. At Internet LAVA we understand the importance of considering any applicable Illinois Bar Rules well before the website is launched.

We focus on building websites for attorneys that provide unique and informative content. We help the attorney develop and professional on-line presense that communicates the right message to potential clients as they begin their search for an attorney. Understand the bar rules that apply is an important first step.

Attorneys in Illinois should pay special attention to the disclaimer that is added to each page of their internet website. A disclaimer should, at a minimum, include the following language: 

The Supreme Court of Illinois does not recognize certifications of specialties in the practice of law and that the certificate, award or recognition is not a requirement to practice law in Illinois. See Illinois Rules of Professional Conduct Rule 7.4(c)(2)(1997).

As the social media revolution changes the way we communicate, attorneys certainly have concerns about communications on popular websites such as LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter. Certain communications are informative or educational. Other communications may be considered advertising. Many attorneys belong to paid directories that promote the attorney's main website. The patchwork of bar rules that attempt to prohibit certain conduct often leads to confusion. Concerning communications in on-line chat rooms and real time communications, the Illinois State Bar Association issued the following opinion:

The Committee does not believe that merely posting general comments on a bulletin board or chat room should be considered solicitation. However, if a lawyer seeks to initiate an unrequested contact with a specific person or group as a result of participation in a bulletin board or chat group, then the lawyer would be subject to the requirements of Rule 4-7.3. For example, if the lawyer sends unrequested electronic messages (including messages in response to inquiries posted in chat groups) to a targeted person or group, the messages should be plainly identified as advertising material." Illinois 96-10.

Contact Internet LAVA to discuss your long term internet marketing goals. We help an attorney create content rich websites designed to dominate the search engines. We take a different approach by teaching the attorney how to use our content mangagement system which allows the attorney to edit or add content to any page on the website. Our websites provide an immediate return on investment that grows stronger over time.

Illinois State Bar Association ISBA - The Illinois State Bar Association is dedicated to improving the administration of justice, as well as improving the quality of the professional lives of its members. Contact the ISBA:

Illinois Rules of Professional Conduct

Rule 7.1 Communications Concerning a Lawyer's Services

Rule 7.2 Advertising

Rule 7.3 Direct Contact With Prospective Clients

Rule 7.4 Communication of Fields of Practice

Rule 7.5 Firm Names and Letterheads