Law Practice Essentials

When you are dealing with an unrepresented party, you must advise the person to obtain independent legal representation, take care to see that they are not proceeding under the impression that you will protect their interests and make it clear that you are acting exclusively in your client’s interests (Code of Conduct, Rule 7.2-12).

You should also explain to your client the protocol for dealing with unrepresented parties, including that you have to respond to communications from the unrepresented party, and will have to have contact with them about settlement and other matters.

The best practices of responding to communications in a timely fashion, documenting communications, being civil and keeping communications on topic apply equally when dealing with unrepresented parties. See the Self-Represented Parties module for more information on communication and other tips and strategies.