When is it permissible for a lawyer to solicit employment from a prospective client in person?

The situation where a lawyer can solicit employment from a prospective client in person is permissible when the prospect has requested information about legal services. This aligns with the Model Rules of Professional Conduct that outline acceptable practices for solicitation. When a potential client actively seeks out information, it indicates an openness and a desire for legal assistance, thus creating a context where the lawyer can appropriately engage in a discussion about their services.

In this scenario, the other choices do not meet the necessary criteria for solicitation. Soliciting solely based on the lawyer's belief about providing better service or having a personal relationship does not constitute an invitation from the prospective client. Likewise, while a lawyer may have a different professional standing, the nature of solicitation typically requires active interest from the client rather than presuming interest based solely on the prospect's professional background. Therefore, the correct approach to solicitation hinges on the prospective client's request for information about legal services, ensuring ethical and respectful engagement.