Rule 3.9 Appearance in Nonadjudicative Proceedings

When a lawyer speaks or appears before a lawmaking body or government agency in a non-court setting, like testifying at a legislative hearing or making a presentation to a licensing board, the lawyer has to make it clear that they are representing a client. They can't pretend to be speaking just for themselves when they're actually there on someone else's behalf.

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 speak up, and can't withhold evidence or information the law says they must share. They also can't tamper with evidence, coach witnesses to lie, or use unfair tactics to gain an advantage.

Basically, this rule makes sure lawyers act honestly even when they're not in a courtroom. Whether they're talking to a legislature, a government board, or another agency, they still have to be upfront about who they represent and follow the same basic rules of fair dealing that apply everywhere else in their legal work.