What is the guideline for direct contact with prospective clients?

The guideline for direct contact with prospective clients is correctly identified as that direct solicitation is generally prohibited unless the prospect is a lawyer or has a close relationship with the lawyer. This rule is designed to protect individuals from being unduly pressured or disturbed by attorneys seeking business.

In many jurisdictions, soliciting clients directly, especially in person or through live communications, is tightly controlled to ensure that attorneys do not exploit vulnerable individuals, especially those who may be experiencing legal issues. The exceptions noted, such as if the prospect is a lawyer or has a close professional or personal relationship with the attorney, acknowledge that in such situations, the potential client may already be familiar with the attorney’s abilities and may be open to being approached for professional services.

This approach helps to balance the ethical responsibility of a lawyer to seek new clients with the need to maintain professionalism and respect for the autonomy and preferences of the individuals being contacted.