Morning Briefing: Law firms social media usage shows “dramatic increase”

Law firms are becoming increasingly active on social media platforms according to a new study in the US.
The annual Social Law Firm Index from Good2bSocial shows a “dramatic increase” in the use of digital technology by law firms compared to its inaugural study in 2013.
The firm says that 3 years ago the use of digital marketing and social media by American law firms was relatively unknown but in 2016 large law firms are embracing the potential of digital to drive business development and thought leadership.
The top five firms are notable for their use of social media to market and grow their business. They are: DLA Piper, Latham & Watkins; Norton Rose & Fulbright; Morgan Lewis & Bockius; and Greenberg Taurig.
Among the firms which ranked poorly in the index, their usage of social channels was often limited to press releases and “puff pieces” rather than meaningful content.
Irregular posting of content also proved to be less effective, with the top performers regularly posting fresh, informative content.
 
Linklaters head to focus on Asia Pacific
Linklaters senior partner Robert Elliot will step down from his role after a 5 year term later this year but it is believed he will remain with the firm as a consultant to focus on the Asia Pacific region. Elliot’s successor Charlie Jacobs will take up the role of senior partner next month.
 
Icelandic government considers legal action against frozen food store
The government in Iceland is reportedly considering taking legal action over a British frozen food store which shares the country’s name.
Iceland (the store) has been trading in the UK since the 1970’s and has more recently opened stores in mainland Europe. Iceland (the country) seems to have been either unaware or unbothered by the retailer’s chosen brand, until now.
The BBC reports that the Icelandic government has not objected to the retailer’s trademark of the Iceland name, with its ministry of foreign affairs stating “we were never going to be running any supermarkets.”
However, the ministry says the retailer has spread its business into other sectors using the Iceland name, and that has caused concern. It confirmed that it is considering legal action but has not made a decision.