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SEO Advisory vs. SEO Agency for Law Firms
In this digital age, if your law firm isn’t easily discoverable online, you’re potentially losing out on a never-ending supply of potential clients. But here’s the dilemma: should you go for an SEO advisor or partner with a full-fledged SEO agency? Let’s unravel this mystery.
What is SEO Advisory?
Definition and Basics
Think of SEO Advisory as your trusted consultant, a guide. These SEO experts help lay down the road map for your law firm’s online success. Instead of implementing SEO strategies themselves, they advise, plan, and sometimes train your team on SEO tactics. Allowing your in-house team to not only flex their SEO muscles but also improve their skills over time. It also means that if you have a team in place that can write well, you’re not “double dipping” in the content marketing process.
Key Benefits
- Expertise on Demand: Tailored advice specific to the needs of your law firm site.
- Cost-Efficiency: Generally, you’ll only pay for the consultation, not for the execution of SEO efforts.
- Empowerment: They equip your in-house team with the knowledge to tackle SEO tasks.
Potential Downsides
- No Execution: They guide, but you’ll need to implement, and if they are lacking in some places, you’ll find out soon enough.
- Dependence on Internal Resources: Your in-house team’s proficiency becomes crucial for a successful legal SEO campaign.
- Scalability Issues: Might not be the best for rapid expansion-focused marketing efforts.
What is an SEO Agency?
Definition and Basics
An SEO agency is like your Swiss army knife for online success. They don’t just guide – they execute. From content creation and technical SEO to backlinking and analytics, they’ve got it all under one roof. Many law firms prefer this model as it allows them to focus on their law practice and no the marketing strategy that they may not be as versed in.
Key Benefits
- All-in-One Solution: Comprehensive services from advice to execution can help your law firm growth really explode.
- Team of Experts: Access to a multifaceted marketing services team, each specialized in different SEO facets.
- Consistent Execution: Regular updates, reports, and constant engagement to ensure your search engine marketing efforts are headed in the right direction.
Potential Downsides
- Costly: Generally more expensive than just a law firm website advisory.
- Less Control: Most have a full SEO service plan which means they drive the car while you’re in the passenger seat. Not ideal if you like to “tinker”.
- Potential for Generic Strategies: With some SEO companies, you run the risk of not getting a customized approach. Be sure to discuss their best SEO practices for the legal markets before jumping into a campaign.
Direct Comparison: Advisory vs. Agency
Approach
While advisors are like the GPS guiding you, agencies are the chauffeurs driving you to your destination. The question is, do you prefer driving or being driven? Law firm marketing can be very competitive and hiring out either option is better than stumbling around alone.
Cost Implications
Advisory can be lighter on the wallet, but remember, it’s the execution that brings results. Agencies might seem pricier, but they offer an all-in package.
Deciding if your team is capable of iteration and implementation is key to making the right decision for your law firm’s SEO efforts.
Scalability
Want to expand rapidly? An agency might be your best bet, with their resources and expertise. But if you have a robust in-house team, advisory can also do wonders.
Customization
Advisors tend to be more flexible and mold strategies around your firm’s unique needs. Most agencies might offer customization, but it’s essential to ensure it’s not just a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach. (Don’t worry about PBD, we only do custom campaigns, no matter if you choose the agency full service or the advisor option for your law firm SEO services.)
Which One is Right for Your Law Firm?
Reflect on your firm’s needs, budget, and internal resources. If you have a capable team and need expert guidance, advisory might be the way. If you’re looking for end-to-end solutions without the hassle of execution, an agency would be ideal.
Conclusion
The debate between SEO advisory and SEO agency is like choosing between a map and a tour guide. Both have their merits and drawbacks. The choice boils down to your law firm’s unique requirements, budget, and future goals. Weigh the pros and cons, and choose wisely… either way, we’re here to help with whatever decision you make to help you jump up the search engine results pages!
FAQs
- What if I start with an advisory and then switch to an agency?Absolutely possible! It’s all about aligning with your current needs.
- Are there hybrid models that offer both advisory and agency services?Yes, we provide a mix, allowing you to get the best of both worlds.
- How long before I see results with either approach?SEO is a long game. Typically, tangible results can take 3-6 months, regardless of the approach.
- Can I switch from an agency to an advisory?Of course! If you feel your in-house team has gained enough expertise, switching to advisory can be beneficial.
- Is one approach better than the other for smaller law firms?It’s not about the size but your firm’s specific needs and budget constraints. Both models can cater to law firms of all sizes, it all depends on what assets you have to lean on.

For 15+ years now Adam has helped business brand, plan, and grow.
With a background in media buying and specializing in data-driven marketing he founded the Painted Brick Digital Agency to act as your in-house marketing and advertising department.
“Cookie cutter doesn’t work in a world that is constantly evolving.”