1. The Problem
The business problem was the lack of a modern, professional online presence for a local law firm specializing in divorce. The client needed a platform that would establish credibility, showcase their expertise, and make it easy for potential clients to find and contact them during sensitive life transitions.
2. The Users
The primary users were local individuals seeking legal representation for divorce and family law matters. These users were often under significant stress and required a website that felt professional, empathetic, and easy to navigate to find specific legal services.
3. Discovery
I learned about the problem through direct consultation with the firm’s partners. During these discussions, we identified the need for a site that balanced a welcoming tone with the authoritative presence required of a law firm. I also researched local competitors to ensure the firm’s value proposition stood out.
4. Constraints
The primary constraints involved working within a freelance capacity to deliver a high-quality, professional site on a WordPress platform. I had to manage all aspects of production—from asset creation to technical setup—while ensuring the site remained easy for the client to update themselves in the future.
5. Design Process
I explored solutions by mocking up various layouts that prioritized clear calls-to-action (like “Contact Us” or “Schedule a Consultation”). The process was highly creative, involving the fabrication of custom visual assets and the selection of a color palette that conveyed trust and stability.
6. Prototype
Ideas were validated through iterative design reviews with the client. Using WordPress as the foundation, I was able to present functional mockups that allowed the client to see how the site would behave on different devices, ensuring the user journey from “information seeking” to “contacting the firm” was seamless
7. Outcome
The project resulted in a fully realized, custom WordPress website that successfully promoted the firm’s legal services. The firm received a professional digital home that effectively converted local search traffic into client leads, supported by custom-made assets that gave the brand a unique local feel.
8. Lessons Learned
This project taught me the value of being a “full-stack” designer in a freelance setting—handling everything from asset fabrication to the final CMS implementation. I learned that for small local businesses, providing a solution that they can easily manage post-launch is just as important as the initial visual design.
