1. Define what “local” means before a story is selected
Villanova is recorded as a census-designated place in Pennsylvania. The 2020–2024 ACS five-year estimate records 9,186 residents, with a margin of error of 576, and records relationships with Delaware County and Montgomery County. That population record does not establish legal-news demand, competition, leads, cases or revenue. It does establish why a firm should distinguish among Villanova, the two listed counties, the wider Pennsylvania market and any metropolitan audience it intentionally serves. A crash, court decision or new statute may matter statewide without being a Villanova story. Conversely, a story involving a nearby road, court or agency may need a carefully checked geographic explanation.
Recommended approach
Set a geographic rule for each practice area. Decide whether the page should address Villanova residents, Delaware County, Montgomery County, Pennsylvania generally or another service area. Do not imply that an event occurred in Villanova unless the underlying reporting supports that statement. Make the jurisdiction and service boundary visible in the attorney review.
