One source, though, is often overlooked and should be mentioned in a firm's guidelines. Because it is important for lawyers to place articles in the publications that their current and prospective clients are reading, they might want to identify the best publication to submit an article to by asking their clients what publications they read. At this point, the guidelines should indicate that it is time to contact an editor. They also should emphasize that all contact with an editor should be made by the marketing department, and not by a lawyer. The marketing department also will be able to make sure that galleys received from an editor once the article has been accepted for publication are promptly reviewed, that the editor is properly thanked after the article is published, and that appropriate continuing contact with the editor is maintained on behalf of the firm.
Some firms go further and require a partner to be a co-author on every article by an associate.
Other firms take a different approach, and insist that a partner at least review an associate's draft before it is submitted for publication. However, by focusing on key issues and setting forth clear rules, they can eliminate confusion and better enable a firm's lawyers and its in-house marketers to promote their firm through the use of bylined articles. Excellent legal service at your convenience. For less than you'd expect.