Attorney Bio Updates Made Simple

Posted by

Kate Harry Shipham

Posted on

Jan 21, 2025

When was the last time you took inventory of the overall look, feel, and branding messaging of your firm's attorney bios? In today’s digital-first world, these bios are more than just a professional summary—they’re an important marketing tool that shapes how potential clients and colleagues perceive your firm.

Potential clients often spend less than 30 seconds glancing at an attorney bio before forming an impression, making it important to craft a profile that is not only informative but also visually appealing and engaging. If your bios feel outdated or fail to communicate the unique value your attorneys bring to the table, you risk losing out to competitors who have mastered the art of modern digital branding.

What to Include in an Attorney Bio

Compelling Opening Statement
- Start with a succinct, engaging summary that highlights the attorney’s unique value proposition. Avoid generic language; instead, focus on what sets them apart, such as a specialized practice area or noteworthy accomplishment.
Areas of Expertise
- Clearly outline the attorney’s practice areas and specialties. Use language that resonates with potential clients, avoiding overly technical jargon. Keep in mind that most people reading this are not attorneys.
Notable Achievements and Awards
- Include any prestigious recognitions, certifications, or accolades.
Client-Focused Approach
- Showcase how the attorney’s skills and experience benefit clients. Highlight outcomes, problem-solving capabilities, or client-centered philosophies.
Professional Background
- Provide a summary of educational background, prior experience, and bar admissions. Keep this concise but thorough enough to establish credibility.
Community Involvement and Personal Touch
- Add a human element by mentioning pro bono work, community involvement, or hobbies that make the attorney relate to their audience.
Professional Photo
- Use a high-quality, updated professional photo. Make sure the image conveys both professionalism and approachability. Encourage attorneys to refresh their headshots annually or at least every two years. A current, accurate photo is essential to ensure clients recognize and connect with the attorney, avoiding any surprises.
Contact Information
- Make it easy for clients to reach the attorney by including clear contact details or links to contact forms.
Digital Enhancement
- Attorneys should have digital versions of their bios in an interactive PDF format, making it easy for potential clients to connect.

Dos and Don’ts for Updating Attorney Bios

Do's:

Keep It Client-Focused: Write in a way that emphasizes how the attorney can help clients rather than simply listing accomplishments.
Use Keywords for SEO: Include relevant keywords (e.g., “corporate law attorney”) to make the bio more discoverable online.
Update Regularly: Review and refresh bios annually to include recent accomplishments and ensure relevance.
Maintain a Consistent Tone: Ensure the tone matches the firm’s brand voice, whether it’s formal, approachable, or innovative.
Incorporate Testimonials: If allowed, include brief client quotes or case studies to demonstrate expertise and client satisfaction.

Don’ts:

Avoid Overly Technical Jargon: Use clear, concise language that is accessible to potential clients who may not have a legal background.
Don’t Overload with Irrelevant Details: Focus on information that highlights expertise and professionalism. Avoid listing unrelated hobbies or minor achievements.
Steer Clear of Outdated Photos: A professional photo should represent the attorney as they are today, not five years ago.
Don’t Ignore Accessibility: Ensure the bio is easy to read on mobile devices and complies with accessibility standards (e.g., alt text for images).
Avoid Generic Descriptions: Replace clichés like “results-driven” or “highly skilled” with specific examples of accomplishments.

Final Thoughts

Updating attorney bios for 2025 is an opportunity to showcase expertise, connect with clients, and reinforce your firm’s brand. By including essential elements, following best practices, and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create bios that leave a lasting impression. A well-crafted attorney bio isn’t just an introduction—it’s a gateway to building trust and fostering successful client relationships.