In today’s Quick Hits, we ruminate on why celebrities love Twitter, how more and more lawyers are using social media, and why Google is a chicken (at least according to the advocacy group Consumer Watchdog).

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Celebs Cut Out Middle Men with Twitter

Twitter has made it infinitely easier for celebrities to connect with their fans online. They don’t have to go through their publicist or agent, they can just make an announcement whenever the place. While this has been liberating for some celebrities, it has also been dangerous for those who don’t think before they tweet. This article from CBS News talks about celebrities on Twitter and offers advice for new Twitter users.

ABA Survey Shows More Lawyers Using Social Media for Branding and Networking

According to Above the Law, in this year’s 2010 American Bar Association Technology Survey Report, 10% of respondents indicated that they “had a client retain their legal services as a result of use of online communities/social networking.” The survey also showed that “56% of attorneys reported having a presence in 2010, up from just 43% in 2009 and 15% in 2008.” These numbers indicate a growing acceptance among attorneys to embrace social media technology as a means of engaging new clients and proactively promoting a positive online identity.

Oklahoma Receiver Suspended for Twitter Joke

University of Oklahoma receiver Jaz Reynolds has been suspended by head coach Bob Stoops for sending a message on Twitter saying, “Hey everyone in Austin, tx…….kill yourself.” The tweet came in advance of Oklahoma’s game against the University of Texas and was a direct reference to the recent suicide of a Texas student. Because of social media tools like Twitter and Facebook, many colleges have been forced to adopt strict social media policies to prevent their players from damaging their school’s reputation with an inappropriate message.

Advocacy Group Calls Google “Chicken” in Times Square Jumbotron Ad Over Privacy Debate

The advocacy group Consumer Watchdog has taken to the super-sized screens of Times Square in New York City to challenge Google to a debate over privacy concerns about the company. In its most recent ads, Consumer Watchdog calls Google a chicken for avoiding debates on the issue. The ad can be seen here.

Web Analysts Debate Self-Regulation

To combat growing negative sentiment over behavioral tracking online, the Web Analytics Association recently put together the first version of a “Web Analysts Code of Ethics.” As part of its ongoing “What They Know” coverage, the Wall Street Journal spoke with web analysts Eric Peterson and John Lovett about the code and how other analysts have responded to the proposal of self-regulating their work.