Positive client testimonials are one of the most cost effective marketing tools for a small business, but attorneys are held to a higher standard by the Florida Bar when it comes to publicizing these and certain guidelines must be followed. We previously wrote a blog posting giving a brief overview of the Florida Bar Rule changes for Advertising; here is the testimonial portion of Rule 4-7.13 Deceptive and Inherently Misleading Advertisements explained.

• Testimonials must be truthful and based on the actual experience of the client;
• The client must be qualified to make the testimonial;
• The testimonial must be representative of what clients of that lawyer or law firm generally experience;
• The testimonial must not be written or drafted by the lawyer;
• An attorney cannot pay a client for a testimonial or give something of value for a client review;
• When displaying these testimonials on your website, include a disclaimer that reads, “Prospective clients may not obtain the same or similar results.”

If you have any questions on this topic or would like to hear how the latest media, marketing and technology strategies can help grow your law firm, contact us TODAY at (954) 376-3683. Also serving Central Florida and surrounding areas at (407) 982-1707.