Communication during a legal dispute should explain verified developments without turning allegations or preliminary steps into final conclusions. Establish a review process with qualified local counsel and a responsible spokesperson before issuing statements that could affect the case or other people’s rights.
01
Create a shared factual record
Identify what is publicly available, what remains disputed, and what cannot be disclosed. Use the current case documents rather than a colleague’s summary or a social media post. Agree on precise language for each procedural stage. A filing, hearing, interim decision, settlement, and final judgment can have very different meanings.
- Verify dates, parties, and the document being discussed.
- Separate factual statements from legal interpretation.
- Identify personal information and confidentiality restrictions.
02
Answer the question people actually have
For example, customers may need to know whether service continues during a contract dispute. A short factual service update can answer that question without repeating every accusation. Avoid attacking opposing parties, speculating about motives, or predicting what a court will do. Explain what is known now and when another update is appropriate.
03
Keep every channel consistent
Use one approved version for the website, customer team, and spokesperson. Maintain a dated record so an older statement is not reused after the case changes. PRSA’s ethics framework supports accurate, responsible communication; the legal review must still reflect the applicable jurisdiction and case circumstances. Correct a material mistake promptly through an appropriate channel.
Frequently asked questions
Should we respond to every online allegation?
Not necessarily. Assess whether a response would inform affected people or unnecessarily amplify the allegation. Counsel and communications staff should evaluate accuracy, relevance, and potential consequences together.
Can we say the court proved we were right?
Only if that accurately describes the decision’s scope. Have counsel verify the wording, including remaining issues and any appeal or other procedural limitation.
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Request a confidential reviewOr call (307) 429-2531Educational information, not legal advice. Outcomes depend on the facts and decisions made by third parties.