1. Set the geographic boundary before a story is written
The 2020–2024 ACS five-year population estimate is 31,781, with a margin of error of 415. The record also identifies relationships with Peoria County and Tazewell County. Those facts describe the place; they do not establish legal-news demand, competition, search volume, case volume or revenue. Decide whether the relevant audience is people in Pekin, people elsewhere in Tazewell County, people connected to Peoria County, clients seeking Illinois guidance, or a narrower combination. A statewide story may be useful to an Illinois practice, while a local incident may require a more careful decision about whether the firm has a legitimate geographic connection.
Recommended approach
Bring a written geographic map to the consultation. For each practice area, identify locations the firm serves and locations it does not serve. Ask how a proposed page will reflect that boundary without implying an office, county service area or local involvement that the firm has not established.
