The solo practitioner’s website checklist: Is your site up to par?

Each year, the number of consumers with a legal need who use mobile phones or tablets increases. Ensure your website looks just as good on a mobile device as it does on a desktop.

An attractive, contemporary design doesn’t just make your website look nice. It invites the user to spend more time there and helps build a positive impression of you.

Lawyers tend to write dense and rigorous copy. That doesn’t work well online, where readers are likely skimming and want material that can be consumed easily. Be sure to break up your text to make it easier to read.

A professional headshot is the best option. If that isn’t in the budget, then an amateur one will do in a pinch. Just make sure it’s well-lit, that you’re professionally dressed, and the visual tone is appropriate for business use.

Consumers with a legal need are often distressed and feeling vulnerable. It will go a long way if your website copy reaches out and tries to empathize and connect with them, rather than just rehashing your resume.

You want consumers to pick up the phone and dial your number. A good website places that number in a prominent position and helps make getting in touch with you as easy as possible.

Legal consumers are used to filling out a form with some basic information and having you call them back. This reduces some of the pressure of calling an attorney and lets a prospective client choose whichever means is easiest.

Including a click-to-call feature on your website facilitates easy communication, especially for users on mobile devices. Instant interaction via phone call allows you to satisfy a potential customer and help you generate valuable leads.

Being social on social media means people have to know how to connect with you. Help consumers with a legal need get to know you on a personal level, which will make them feel more comfortable about hiring you.

Online chat is surging in popularity. A chat feature on your website helps potential new clients feel that their need is being addressed immediately, thus keeping them from continuing to look for legal representation.

When consumers with a legal need read about you in, say, a local newspaper, it serves as an assurance that you are reputable, upstanding, and a good choice to hire. Having a page for articles that mention you is a great way to build your reputation in a potential client’s eyes.

If you have been recognized on a third-party site like LeadCounsel.org or Super Lawyers, having proof of that on your site acts as validation and helps you distinguish yourself from what the consumer sees as comparably qualified attorneys.