3.130(3.9) Advocate in nonadjudicative proceedings

When a lawyer speaks or appears before a legislature, city council, or government agency on behalf of a client, but the situation isn't a formal court case or hearing, the lawyer has to make it clear they're speaking as someone's representative, not just as a private citizen giving their own opinion. People listening need to know this person is being paid to push a client's position.

The lawyer also has to follow the same honesty rules that apply in courtrooms. This means they can't lie to the body they're addressing, can't hide important facts when they're required to share them, and can't try to mislead anyone about what the law actually says. They also can't destroy evidence, tell witnesses to avoid showing up, or push someone to give false testimony.

Finally, the lawyer has to act with the same level of respect and professionalism they would show in a courtroom. This means no bullying, no disrespectful behavior toward officials, and no trying to improperly influence people through backdoor channels. Basically, even outside of court, a lawyer representing a client has to be upfront about their role and stay honest and professional the whole time.