More Bite Than Just Bark: Using Model Rule 4.2’s No-Contact Rule

to Limit the Government’s Contact With Employees of a Represented Company

Andrew Boutros and John Schleppenbach provide practical guidance for white collar practitioners concerning when ABA Model Rule of Professional Conduct 4.2 prohibits the government from contacting and trying to interview employees of a represented corporation. The government may disagree with defense counsel’s interpretation of the rule. At the very least, however, providing notice of corporate representation should open a dialogue that prevents unpleasant surprises with regard to contacts with corporate employees.