A more thorough explanation:

The anti-contact rule, also known as rule 4.2 of professional conduct, is a rule that lawyers must follow. It says that lawyers cannot talk about a case they are working on with someone they know is represented by another lawyer in the same case. This is unless the other lawyer gives permission or if it is allowed by law or a court order.

If a lawyer breaks the anti-contact rule, they must have known that the other person was represented by a lawyer. The court can also assume that the lawyer knew, even if they say they didn't. The rule applies to all parties involved in the case, not just the ones in court. Even a small contact, like telling someone their deposition time has changed, can be a breach of the rule.

The anti-contact rule is important because it helps protect people who may not know much about the legal system. It makes sure that all communication goes through the lawyers, who are more experienced and can help their clients make better decisions.

Example 1: A lawyer is working on a case where a person was injured in a car accident. The other driver's insurance company contacts the injured person directly to offer them a settlement. This is a breach of the anti-contact rule because the injured person is represented by a lawyer in the case.

Example 2: A lawyer is working on a case where a company is being sued for discrimination. The lawyer contacts an employee of the company to ask them questions about the case. This is a breach of the anti-contact rule because the employee is represented by the company's lawyer in the case.

These examples show how the anti-contact rule works in practice. It is important for lawyers to follow this rule to make sure that everyone involved in a case is treated fairly.