“[T]he ability of lawyers to perform some of their most fundamental client functions…would be undermined seriously if lawyers were not able to engage in frank discussions of facts and strategies with the lawyers’ public relations consultants.” — Judge Lewis Kaplan of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York regarding grand jury.

Because there are strategic aims and sensitive rules around disclosure during court proceedings, it takes more than a general knowledge of public relations strategy to manage litigation communications. Effective litigation communications requires a professional who understands the legal process, knows how to read filings and has case-specific/litigation experience. 

The ideal litigation communication media expert believes in the power of relationships: he/she will become a part of the legal team, working in lockstep with the lawyers, and will provide the team with access to media and journalists who will be covering the case.    

When hiring a media expert to handle litigation communications, ask about data forensics as it is essential they are up-to-date on the latest developments. The ideal partner will know how listening tools work, engage in active monitoring and analysis, understand how both reporting and rumor are impacting a case, and proactively recommend public appearances and information release.

ANACHEL Communications specializes in high-profile litigation, crisis and strategic communications.  Our media training program and bespoke reputation management practitioners help our clients navigate the narratives when it matters most.  To learn more about our litigation communications practice or book a confidential consultation to learn how we can help, feel free to email carrie@anachel.com.