10 Website Trends We’re Loving Right Now

At PaperStreet, we constantly monitor the evolution of web design to ensure our law firm clients stay ahead of the curve. While some trends come and go, others represent meaningful improvements in how websites function and engage visitors. Here are the website design trends we’re particularly excited about right now and why they matter for law firm websites.

1. Purposeful Animation and Micro-Interactions

Static websites are becoming a thing of the past. Today’s most engaging sites incorporate subtle animations and microinteractions that guide users through content, creating memorable experiences. We’re loving:

• Subtle scroll-triggered animations that reveal content as users navigate down the page
• Hover effects that provide visual feedback and encourage exploration
• Loading animations that reduce perceived wait time and maintain engagement
• Interactive case results or testimonial carousels that invite user participation

When implemented with purpose rather than just for visual flair, these elements significantly improve user engagement metrics, particularly average time on site and pages per session. For law firms, this means potential clients spend more time exploring your expertise and services.

2. Content-First Design

The pendulum is swinging back from ultra-minimalist designs toward content-rich sites that prioritize valuable information. This trend aligns perfectly with law firm marketing needs, where demonstrating expertise is paramount. We’re seeing success with:

• In-depth practice area pages that thoroughly address potential client questions
• Expanded attorney bios that showcase personality along with credentials
• Case study sections that tell compelling stories about client successes
• Resource centers organized by practice area and client needs

This approach serves multiple purposes: it provides genuine value to visitors, establishes authority, and creates SEO advantages through comprehensive content. For law firms competing in crowded markets, content-first design creates meaningful differentiation.

3. Strategic Use of White Space

While content-rich designs are gaining traction, that doesn’t mean cluttered layouts. Today’s most effective websites use strategic white space (negative space) to create visual hierarchy and improve readability. We’re implementing:

• Generous margins around key content sections
• Breathing room between paragraphs and elements
• Clean, uncluttered navigation structures
• Content “chunks” that make information more digestible

For law firms, this approach ensures that complex legal information remains accessible and doesn’t overwhelm potential clients. It also conveys a sense of clarity and organization that aligns with how clients want their legal matters to be handled.

4. Accessibility as a Priority, Not an Afterthought

Inclusive design has evolved from a nice-to-have to an essential consideration, and with good reason. Beyond the ethical and legal imperatives, accessible websites perform better for all users. We’re implementing:

• High-contrast color schemes that improve readability
• Keyboard-navigable interfaces
• Alt text for all images
• Proper heading structure for screen readers
• Motion reduction options for those with vestibular disorders

Prioritizing accessibility benefits law firms, as it demonstrates a commitment to serving all community members and complying with legal standards.

5. Custom Photography and Authentic Imagery

Stock photography fatigue is real. Users have developed a sixth sense for detecting generic imagery. It undermines credibility. The most compelling law firm websites now feature:

• Professional, custom photography of attorneys and staff
• Authentic office and community images
• Behind-the-scenes content that humanizes the practice
• Custom illustrations that explain complex legal concepts

This investment in photography pays dividends in differentiation and trust-building. Potential clients can better envision working with your firm when they see real people in real environments.

6. Dark Mode Options

Dark mode has evolved from a novelty to an expected option for many users. We’re seeing benefits in:

• Reduced eye strain, particularly in low-light environments
• Extended battery life on mobile devices
• Opportunities for dramatic design contrasts
• User appreciation for preference accommodation

Law firms can use dark mode to distinguish their brand and accommodate modern browsing preferences. As screens become our primary reading environment, this simple toggle offers a competitive edge in design sophistication and user comfort.

7. Integrated Video Content

Video continues to gain importance for engagement, but the trend is moving toward seamless integration rather than disruptive experiences. We’re implementing:

• Background video headers that set the tone without requiring interaction
• Attorney introduction videos embedded in bio pages
• Video testimonials that complement written reviews
• Explainer videos for complex practice areas

Video builds connection and trust more rapidly than text alone. Law firms that incorporate video content see significant improvements in engagement metrics and conversion rates.

8. Strategic Use of AI and Chatbots

While we’re cautious about over-automating the personal connection, the use of AI tools is showing promise. Effective implementations include:

• Intelligent chatbots that can schedule consultations outside business hours
• Smart forms that adapt based on user inputs
• Content recommendation engines that guide visitors to relevant information
• Automated case evaluation tools for simple matter types

These tools enhance, rather than replace, the human connection, improving response times and the effectiveness of lead capture.

9. Visual Storytelling and Brand Narratives

Generic law firm websites are giving way to sites that tell compelling visual stories about a firm’s history, values, and approach. Elements we’re incorporating include:

• Visual timelines of firm milestones
• Client journey maps that illustrate processes
• Value proposition visuals that differentiate services
• Attorney “origin stories” that connect to practice motivations

For law firms competing in crowded markets, visual storytelling creates emotional connection and memorability that generic service listings cannot match.

10. Improved Site Speed and Performance

While not the most visually exciting trend, the renewed focus on technical performance is perhaps the most important. Google’s Core Web Vitals have placed a premium on:

• Faster loading times (under 2.5 seconds)
• Minimal layout shift as pages load
• Quick interactivity response times
• Streamlined mobile experiences

Potential clients are increasingly unwilling to wait for slow-loading sites. Law firms that invest in performance optimization see immediate benefits in search visibility and user retention. 

Looking Forward

At PaperStreet, we’re selective about which trends we recommend to our law firm clients. We focus on those that enhance the user experience, support marketing goals, and differentiate our clients’ firms from others, rather than following every design fad. These trends represent approaches we believe have staying power and strategic value for legal websites.

If you’re considering a website redesign or enhancement, we’d be happy to discuss how these trends might be applied to your specific practice areas and marketing goals. Contact our design team to explore the possibilities for your firm’s digital presence.