Your law firm’s website is a powerful tool for attracting clients, but it also needs to protect your firm. That’s where disclaimers come in. Clear, well-placed disclaimers help set expectations, avoid misunderstandings, and keep you compliant with advertising rules and ethical guidelines.
While each state may have its own specific rules, most firms follow the guidelines recommended by the American Bar Association (ABA). Here are the three key disclaimers we recommend having on your website, along with examples we use on most of our client projects.
1. Footer Disclaimer
Your footer should include a general disclaimer that appears on every page of your website. This helps make it clear that the information provided is not legal advice and that visiting your site does not create an attorney-client relationship.
Example Footer Disclaimer:
The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship. Attorney Advertising.
2. Contact Form Disclaimer
Every contact form on your site should include a disclaimer reminding visitors that submitting a form does not establish an attorney-client relationship and advising against sharing confidential or time-sensitive information.
Example Form Disclaimer:
Contacting us through this form or the internet does not create an attorney-client relationship. Confidential or time-sensitive information should not be sent through this form.
Pro tip: Make sure this disclaimer appears right next to the form or submit button so it’s clearly visible.
3. Testimonials and Case Results Disclaimer
Testimonials and case results help build trust, but they can also create unrealistic expectations if not presented with care. This disclaimer helps manage those expectations by reminding visitors that every case is different and that past results don’t guarantee future outcomes.
Example Testimonials/Case Results Disclaimer:
These are examples out of a small sample set of our cases. Please keep in mind that every case is fact specific and different, and that these verdicts and settlements do not represent what we may be able to obtain for you in your specific case.
Check Your State Guidelines
While these disclaimers follow common best practices and align with ABA recommendations, every state may have its own rules. We recommend reviewing your state bar’s advertising guidelines or consulting with your state bar association to ensure full compliance.
Want Help Making Sure Your Website Is Set Up Correctly?
We help law firms build websites that are professional, compliant, and designed to convert visitors into clients. If you’d like help reviewing your website or adding proper disclaimers, we’re happy to assist.
Schedule a free consultation — we’ll review your site and help make sure you’re covered.
