What should a lawyer avoid when discussing their role with unrepresented persons?

When discussing their role with unrepresented persons, a lawyer should avoid stating that they are disinterested. This is crucial because the term "disinterested" implies a lack of interest in the matter at hand, which can be misleading in a legal context. Lawyers have a vested interest in their clients' cases and their legal obligations can create conflicts between the interests of different parties. Misleading an unrepresented person into believing that the lawyer has no interest could create a false sense of security about the nature of the legal representation and the lawyer’s role in the situation.

In contrast, a lawyer may offer assistance, make recommendations, or suggest possible outcomes, provided these actions are conducted with caution and while ensuring clarity about the attorney’s role and the limitations of that role. It is essential for the lawyer to communicate that they cannot provide the same level of advocacy for unrepresented individuals as they can for their clients, thus maintaining transparency and ethical standards in their interactions.