Hot off the heels of last week’s blog, I stated that 65% of adults are using social media which potentially correlates to a 65% chance of possible new business connections for your law firm. Turns out, California agrees.
In late December, The State Bar of California made their ruling concerning an attorney’s professional accountability regarding their postings on social media websites. Previous rulings were vague, but the new ruling defines the distinction between a statement and an advertisement.
Here is the abbreviated version of that ruling:
“Material posted by an attorney on a social media website will be subject to professional responsibility rules and standards governing attorney advertising if that material constitutes a “communication” within the meaning of rule 1-400 (Advertising and Solicitation) of the Rules of Professional Conduct of the State Bar of California; or (2) “advertising by electronic media” within the meaning of Article 9.5 (Legal Advertising) of the State Bar Act. The restrictions imposed by the professional responsibility rules and standards governing attorney advertising are not relaxed merely because such compliance might be more difficult or awkward in a social media setting.”
To read the ruling in its entirety, follow the link here.
Tina Burns
Vice President
Photo Credit: 123RF Stock Photo