For many criminal law teams, the Legal 500 submission deadline brings a collective sigh of relief. Weeks of gathering case highlights, compiling referee lists and refining narratives are finally behind you.
But the reality is that the research process is only just beginning!
Over the coming months, directory researchers will be forming their view of your department. They will of course review your submission, but they will also be looking beyond it – at your website, your lawyers’ profiles, your online activity and the wider reputation of your team.
For criminal lawyers in particular, this period presents an opportunity to reinforce the strengths you have already highlighted.
Make Sure Your Team Profiles Reflect Your Expertise
Researchers frequently visit firm websites to learn more about the lawyers they are assessing. If your profiles are outdated or generic, you may be missing a valuable opportunity. Ensure that all lawyers put forward have up-to-date photos, correct job titles and contact information and a compelling bio that sets them apart as the ‘leading partner’, ‘next generation partner’ or ‘leading associate’ that you say they are.
Review the profiles of everyone you have put forward and make sure they clearly explain:
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Their areas of criminal law specialism
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Notable cases or experience (where appropriate and compliant with client confidentiality)
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Professional accreditations such as Higher Rights, Duty Solicitor status or panel memberships
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Their role within the team and reputation within the sector
Strong profiles help researchers understand the depth and focus of your department.
Showcase Your Knowledge and Experience
Criminal law is a fast-moving area where legislation, sentencing guidelines and procedural changes evolve regularly. Publishing short insights or commentary can demonstrate your team’s expertise and commitment to keeping clients informed.
This might include commentary on:
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Changes to sentencing guidelines
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Updates to criminal procedure
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Developments in areas such as serious fraud, regulatory offences or driving offences
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Practical insights from recent cases or trends in the courts
You don’t need to produce lengthy articles. Clear, helpful insights are often the most effective.
Stay Active on LinkedIn
Many researchers will look at LinkedIn profiles to understand how lawyers engage with their professional community.
Encouraging your team to remain active during the research period can help reinforce the visibility of your practice. This might include:
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Sharing insights on legal developments
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Commenting on relevant news or cases
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Highlighting speaking engagements or training
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Showcasing team achievements or accreditations
Consistent, professional activity helps demonstrate credibility and thought leadership.
Check in With Your Referees
Referees remain an important part of the research process. A well-chosen referee who knows your work can provide valuable feedback to researchers.
During the research period it is sensible to stay in touch with the individuals you have listed. This doesn’t need to be formal – a coffee, a catch-up call or simply maintaining a good working relationship can make a difference.
If you want referees to speak positively about your work, the relationship should feel genuine and current.
It is best practice to inform your referrees before finalising your submission – but if you haven’t yet done so – do get in touch with them to explain the process and how you would value their positive words when the researchers get in contact with them.
Keep the Momentum Going
Your legal directory submission tells researchers why your criminal law team deserves recognition.
What happens afterwards helps reinforce that story.
By ensuring your online presence reflects your expertise, keeping your team visible and maintaining strong professional relationships, you strengthen the overall impression of your department during the months when researchers are forming their conclusions.
The submission may be complete – but the opportunity to demonstrate your strengths continues throughout the research process.
