The practice of law is a business. As one aspect of that business, many lawyers and firms engage in marketing or advertising to increase their market share or to attract new customers. However, the ethical rules governing advertising can be strict as well as sometimes difficult to understand in the age of social media.

The ABA recently approved changes to Model Rules 7.1 through 7.5, which govern attorney advertising. These changes are expected to address concerns regarding the public’s access to justice and attorneys’ ability to make a living. Each state sets the rules for their attorneys regarding whether and to what extent attorneys are permitted to advertise. Although each state will have to determine whether or to what extent to adopt these model rules, the changes may highlight the direction the legal field may be expected to evolve.