What must a lawyer do when dealing with unrepresented persons?

When a lawyer is dealing with unrepresented persons, it is essential to correct any misunderstandings that may arise. This obligation is rooted in the principle that attorneys have a responsibility to ensure that individuals who are not represented by legal counsel do not make uninformed decisions based on incomplete or incorrect information.

By correcting misunderstandings, the lawyer acts ethically and responsibly, helping to promote fairness in the legal process. This is particularly important because unrepresented individuals may not be fully aware of their rights or the legal implications of their circumstances. Addressing misconceptions can prevent detrimental consequences that might arise from a lack of understanding of the law or the legal process.

While providing detailed legal advice might seem helpful, it is important for lawyers to tread carefully in these situations to avoid creating an attorney-client relationship unintentionally, which could lead to complications. Implying disinterest or encouraging self-representation is also not appropriate, as both actions fail to acknowledge the lawyer's duty to assist in clarifying the legal context and ensuring that the unrepresented person has a fair understanding of the issues.