Strict new lawyer advertising ethics rules are being proposed in New York, I suppose to improve the image of lawyers in the eyes of the public. The rules will become effective November 1, 2006. Will new lawyer advertising ethics rules have any effect on shaping the look of lawyer advertising or improving the image of lawyers? It depends upon the creativity of the lawyer or the advertising agency.

It’s really not that difficult to convey a thought without stating it. It just needs a little creativity. Consider the Verizon Wireless TV commercial for their new Chocolate cellphone by LG. If you watch TV, you must have seen it. Their TV commercial exudes sex more than any TV commercial I have ever seen, yet they do it all with chocolate and music, without any mention or images of any sex in the commercial.