For reasons I've explained in detail elsewhere, Flash animations are nearly always a mistake as used on law firm web sites. Larry Bodine's blog points out one exception, Preston Gates' use to provide a “virtual tour.”
What's different about this use? Mainly the fact that it's “optional.” While some people like animations, many despise them. While using a Flash animation as a sort of entry way for your web site might impress a few Flash fans, that marginal benefit is not worth the risk of turning off others who absolutely hate animations. [Netlawblog]