Talk of the LexBlog Network: Vladimir Gagic of Arizona Criminal Law & Sex Crimes Post

In a criminal law blogosphere saturated with recycled nonsense and distasteful commentary, only the strong survive–and there are few more fit for survival than a Marine. Former United States Marine and current Phoenix criminal defense attorney Vladimir Gagic‘s blog, Arizona Criminal Law & Sex Crimes Post, has garnered attention that has translated to success for his practice.

"What some lawyers do is just report what others are saying and won’t offer (an) opinion," Gagic said. "If you want exposure or publicity I think it’s important to have a take. You have to have strong opinions so you’re not just repeating facts."

The aptly-titled Arizona Criminal Law & Sex Crimes Post covers stories that involve criminal matters such as major felonies and DUIs, but also subjects related to dangerous sexual crimes against children and the vulnerable. Gagic’s ability to tastefully assert an original and authoritative voice on such sensitive material is a distinct quality that sets him apart from the blogging masses.

"You have to be persuasive as a lawyer and it’s a good skill to have when it comes to writing," Gagic said. "I think people like to see, especially (in) criminal law, that you’re not just a hired gun, but a person who really cares about the profession."

Though Gagic started his own firm over five years ago, he created his blog in February. Gagic’s passions for justice, politics and his community shine through on his blog and have been constant, driving forces for both his professional and blogging careers.

"As a public defender I’m more aware of social issues and tend to write about them more because I don’t think someone can be a criminal defense lawyer and not concern themselves with social issues and the political environment," Gagic said. "I think those two go hand-in-hand."

Just as Gagic believes social awareness is complementary to the law, he finds Twitter complementary to blogging. The popular form of social media has given Gagic exposure to news and information that is typically void of his daily occurrences and has increased his awareness of important criminal law issues in his community.

"I use Twitter a lot," said Gagic.  "I like that I can check it while I am waiting at court or during commercial breaks while I’m watching (television)."

Mixing business and pleasure may not be the most typical business ally, but it has worked to Gagic’s advantage. A sports-related Twitter response to a popular local news anchor landed Gagic’s blog some crucial on-air time that has given way to business benefits in the form of new clients.

"I was following (the reporter) on Twitter and she asked a general question about the NFL Draft and then started following me (on Twitter)," said Gagic. "She saw the blog and after talking to her a few times she mentioned, on-air, that she reads my blog all the time and it has helped."

For Gagic, the road to new and exciting professional opportunities has been paved by blogging. He advises bloggers to key into their senses of originality and creativity to build a strong web presence. 

"(Blogging is) the way to market yourself online," said Gagic.  "I try to make sure my view point always comes across in my writing."