Sample Press Releases

Sample Press Releases – Free for your review and use

Whether you are issuing routine announcements, such as new hires or new offices, or more urgent breaking news about case victories or closed deals, you must write an effective press release, giving thought to the messages you include within the release and recognizing the needs of the journalists who will read the release. Let us help! Feel free to use the formats we've provided here as templates for your own releases. Give serious consideration to the journalists you want to reach. Then be sure to send us your press release so that we can distribute it via our Jaffe Legal News Service (www.jlns.com). If you have any questions about how to write a press release, or how to reach the media that cares about your news, contact Liz Lindley at lindleyl@jaffeassociates.com or (201) 313-5661.

*All the information included in the releases below, including the firm name, names of individuals, and the stories described, are completely fictitious.

Available for Interview: This press tool is often called a Media Alert, and is used to promote an attorney by sharing commentary about a breaking news story or current issue being covered by the media.

Deal Announcement: The key to publicity for the firm's deals is to obtain the permission of the client to issue the release as soon as the deal is closed. Waiting even a day can severely weaken this pitch. Financial information is usually requested by journalists.

Victory Announcement: Timing is critical for getting coverage of a client's court victory or settlement. Advance notice of the litigation to journalists is appreciated, and can lead to increased coverage.

Award Announcement: Suppose the firm is recognized in the annual Chambers ranking. Although the news itself may not generate much coverage, it's important to name the firm and the individual lawyers and remind journalists of the firm's expertise.

New Office Release: Not only does this release promote the firm's growth and expansion, but it enables the marketing director to reach out to local media and make introductions.

New Hire Release: Use this format when the firm hires lateral partners and send the news to community and legal publications, and don't forget to alert the attorneys' alumni publications.

Promotion Release: It's important to note when junior level attorneys are named as partners or counsel in the firm. This news will be relevant to the legal and local business publications, along with the attorneys' alumni and community associations.

New Associates Release: Use this release to announce a new class of associates joining the firm. Strengthen the release by including a firm message about the growth of certain practice areas, or the achievement of diversity goals, etc.

Charitable Contribution: Law firms often contribute to charitable organizations, and while every donation is not newsworthy, those that tie into national or regional issues may be of interest to legal and business journalists.

Pro Bono Activity: Recognition of pro bono activities is important not only to clients and to the legal community at large, but to the internal audience of a law firm.

Professional Awards: If a lawyer wins a professional award for her role in the legal community, it makes sense to promote the news internally and via a news release. Be sure to update the lawyer's biography on the firm's Web site and in collateral materials.

Speaking Engagement Release: Local media, and out-of-town media attending a conference, may be interested in meeting your attorney before or after he gives a speech or participates in a panel discussion.