This post originally appeared April 12, 2016 on Attorney at Work. Why do you find certain lawyers quoted so often? Are they magically on speed dial with certain outlets? In short, yes. Befriending a reporter is an exercise in social capital. You want to create an easy, mutually beneficial relationship. It may be intimidating to some, but it can be done. Most reporters are more approachable than this. When I was a reporter, I had several trusted lawyers and judges who consiste

As a lawyer, all of your digital transmissions are subject to the Rules of Professional Conduct (for the purposes of this post, see CA Rule 1-400 Advertising and Solicitation). The New York State Bar Association has gone so far as to release its own handbook for attorney social media behavior, and other states are not far behind. Moreover, your firm may have its own social media and public relations guidelines further restricting your online activities. As all social media tr

We’ve all seen it in the press pool, and a few of you have been unfortunate enough to be on the receiving end: A press conference or interview starts out in a civilized and controlled fashion, and then goes downhill when a seasoned reporter smells blood and goes for the jugular. Pretty soon it resembles a National Geographic episode and you are just waiting for the gazelle to go down. Reporters aren't usually this terrifying. Media-savvy subjects know how to control an interv

When reporters are on deadline, they want two things: No. 2: A great source. No. 1: A great source who understands their needs and the media in general. Here’s a checklist for how to be that person. Gather the Basics Write down the reporter's name, media outlet, phone number, and story deadline. Ask what the story is about and how the interview will be used. If it’s a TV or radio reporter, inquire about the interview format (live, taped, etc.). If you're not the best expert,