Rule number one is that the basic prerequisites for success are a positive collaboration between lawyers and communicators and a jointly developed strategy. Admittedly, this is not always easy to achieve, because lawyers and PR specialists often have different goals. The media wants wording that is short and to the point, while lawyers strive to be as precise as possible. The major challenge is to develop and realise a joint litigation and public relations strategy despite these differences. As a general rule, the communication strategy almost always follows the legal strategy. At the same time, the legal dimension means it is important not to forget that the reputation of an individual or a company is at stake.

“As a general rule, the communication strategy almost always follows the legal strategy”

Litigation PR does not work in an isolated, separate domain. If a case goes to trial, every piece of public communication by a company or a defendant is associated with the case. Therefore, all communication – including advertising – must be examined critically from the beginning. And most importantly, “no comment” is not an alternative. The goal has to be to set the tone with open communication and to get your side of the story across to the public. Assume that every document will be leaked. If you proactively communicate this information yourself, you remove the aura of secrecy and can better put your own spin on it.

The following rule also applies to litigation PR: don’t forget the web, especially because it represents a form of collective memory and can continue to influence your reputation years later. In addition, Twitter and live forums from the courtroom have now become par for the course. Special communication channels such as litigation websites or Twitter accounts can present your own position to the users.

There is clear evidence that professional communication management along with well-conducted and well-placed interviews can allow you to influence media coverage and the public’s perception. Here is just one example:  Die Zeit once gave Ulli Hoeneß the opportunity to depict himself as a family man and a repentant sinner by allowing him to present his own picture of himself in an interview he gave together with his son. However the fact that it was later revealed that he had not been open and honest attests to poor litigation PR strategy.

Humility and restraint

Above all, however, I firmly believe that the basic attitude of the involved parties towards the public – be it that depicted in the media or in the courtroom – is essential. Humility and restraint are decisive factors for successful communication. Why? An aggressive communication strategy aimed at confrontation with the justice system only works in the rarest of cases. Such a scorched earth strategy usually leaves behind closed doors that were previously open. It is not good for public perception when the defendant continues to cling to their previous – often powerful – position during the trial or lawsuit. Instead, defendants should give people the feeling that, despite wholeheartedly asserting their innocence, they have a certain level of humility before the court and the public. This has nothing to do with admitting guilt, but is a sign of respect and integrity.

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