Submit Press Release

How to Write a Good Press Release

A legal brief, like you’re used to writing, is a long process that begins with supporting facts and builds up to your conclusion.  Writing a press release is the exact opposite.  It starts with the conclusion or outcome and then lists supporting details.  The goal is to keep it short and succinct.

Components of a Press Release

1. Headline and subheading – Be sure to include your firm’s name in the headline, along with a brief description of the body of the press release. The subheading should provide greater detail without repeating the headline. Between the two, your reader should have a concise synopsis of the entire release. If you can, insert keywords to assist with search engine optimization.
2. The Nut Graph – This is the first paragraph of the release. It should explain the value of your story. This is where you put your conclusion.  If the reader only reads one paragraph, or the news outlet only has space for one paragraph, then the most important information has been conveyed.
3. Details – Any good reporter will independently verify the information you’ve provided in your press release. It’s a good idea to make his or her job as easy as possible by providing as many supporting details as possible.  This is particularly important if you release regards a suit filing or a verdict.
   1. Case caption, i.e. ABC vs. XYZ
   2. Date of filing
   3. Case number
   4. The court that the case was heard or filed
   5. Your firms contact information
   6. A brief description of the firm that includes your practice areas and a hyperlink to your firm’s website.