What is prohibited regarding false statements of law in court?

The prohibition against making false statements of law in court is fundamentally about upholding the integrity of the legal system. A lawyer has an ethical obligation to the court to maintain honesty and fairness. This means that a lawyer cannot knowingly make a false statement regarding the law, as this undermines the judicial process and can lead to a miscarriage of justice.

Moreover, the requirement to disclose adverse authority is essential because it ensures that the court is fully informed about relevant legal precedents that may contradict the lawyer's position. By presenting both supporting and opposing legal arguments, lawyers help judges make informed decisions, promoting transparency and adherence to ethical standards in legal practice.

In contrast, the other options either suggest unethical behavior or misinterpret the lawyer's responsibilities. For example, implying that a lawyer can make false statements if they are not caught undermines the core principles of legal ethics and could result in serious disciplinary action. Similarly, only disclosing favorable law would lead to a distorted view of the legal landscape, hindering the court's ability to serve justice. Thus, option B reflects the essential duty of lawyers to uphold the truth and support the court's functioning with accurate legal information.