Department attorneys are governed in criminal and civil law enforcement investigations and proceedings by the relevant rule of professional conduct that deals with communications with represented persons. 28 U.S.C. Section 530B. In determining which rule of professional conduct is relevant, Department attorneys should be guided by 28 C.F.R. Part 77 (1999). Department attorneys are strongly encouraged to consult with their Professional Responsibility Officers or supervisors—and, if appropriate, the Professional Responsibility Advisory Office—when there is a question regarding which is the relevant rule or the interpretation or application of the relevant rule.

[updated January 2020]