ASK THE MAM — LEGIT LAW DIRECTORIES

Dear MAM: I recently received the following e-mail from a law directory that I had never heard of. Is it legit? Do you suggest trying it out? It read as follows:

#1 Search Result on Google
January 10, 2005 – The Law Firm Directory at http://www.MegaFirms.com is now featured as the #1 search result for “law firms” at Google.com. Since its launch in early 2004, Megafirms.com has attracted nearly 10% of all searches for “LAW FIRMS” on Google by consumers and corporate counsel searching the web for qualified representation.

MegaFirms.com is the most cost-effective means of getting your Firm noticed online without having to monitor click-through charges. And this month we are offering a free companion listing at gLawyers.com, The Lawyer Directory featured on Google searches for “lawyers.”

For more information, simply direct your Browser to http://www.MegaFirms.com or purchase a listing directly from our secure online server at:

https://secure.cnchost.com/megafirms.com/lawfirms/listing/

The Lawz Incorporated http://www.MegaFirms.com 850 West Grand Avenue Oakland, CA 94607 Phone: 510/717-LAWZ
Connecting Qualified U.S. Law Firms With Consumers on the Internet Since 1997.

Thanks for your help. Sincerely yours, J.C., San Diego, CA

Dear JC: I received this same e-mail and had never heard of it until today. I also did a few of the suggested searches. First, the top ranking on Google was a paid-for sponsorship. I have no idea how long it has been there and how long it will remain. It is a paid-for spot. I did not see the site listed in the regular results. Second, I did a bunch of additional searches and could not find it. The bottom line with all legal directories is to see how they come up on YOUR searches. And look deeper into the company’s advertising and content. I have no idea how good or bad this particular site is. However, I rarely come across anyone that is not using Martindale.com or Lawyers.com for general lawyer searches. Not to say that others are not worth trying out…at the right price and with the right research. Thanks for writing. Sincerely yours, THE MARKETING ATTORNEY