What is the "no contact" rule?

The "no contact" rule is a fundamental principle in professional ethics for attorneys, particularly as it relates to their interactions with parties who are represented by other counsel. This rule specifically prohibits an attorney from communicating with a represented party—such as a defendant or a plaintiff—without the consent of that person's lawyer. This is designed to protect the interests of the represented party and ensure that they are not unduly influenced or misled during legal proceedings.

This ethical stipulation emphasizes the importance of maintaining respect for the roles of attorneys and the rights of parties involved in litigation. By prohibiting such communications, the rule helps to maintain the integrity of the legal process and upholds the attorney-client relationship.

In this context, options suggesting that the rule allows communication with anyone involved in a case, restricts contact only during trial, or only applies to opposing counsel do not align with the established understanding of the "no contact" rule. The essence of the rule is concerned with protecting represented parties from direct communication from other parties who are aware that they are represented.