Tuesday, March 10, 2009

Web Directory Of Attorneys Upsets D.C. Bar

Web Directory Of Attorneys Upsets D.C. Bar, Wash. Post, March 9, 2009. Avvo.com (based in Seattle) is moving into new territory -- and the local lawyers don't always like it. This article reports on the DC Bar Association trying to restrict Avvo's use of information from its website. Is it an invasion of privacy or an important way to get information to consumers?

No matter where you come down on the policy question, as researchers it's a good idea to be aware of what resources are out there. When you're trying to get information about an attorney, Avvo can be a valuable source.

Is it always current and complete? No, but Martindale-Hubbell and West Legal Directory aren't either. Should you believe that a comment or rating is an accurate description of a lawyer's performance in all situations? No, of course not. But should you be aware of Avvo as a resource and use it for what you can learn? You bet. Sometimes it gives you a lot more information than other directories -- particularly for attorneys who choose to add information to their profiles and have their clients post comments.

For some ideas about how to find information about attorneys, see our guide, Sample Searches for Networking and Informational Interviews.

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