On courthouse/jail grounds—what IS proper ethical behavior?

• A. Wear ODI badge and disclose all agency relationships.
• B. Wear only ODI wallet ID; if requested, provide a business card; never initiate solicitation.
• C. Display a generic ID from any organization.
• D. Solicit clients on sight.

Answer: (B)

On courthouse and jail grounds, proper ethical behavior hinges on identifying yourself appropriately without implying authority you don’t hold and avoiding pressure or solicitation of potential clients in a sensitive setting. The best practice is to wear only the ODI wallet ID, so you’re visibly identified as an agent when needed but don’t project official court authority. If someone requests proof of your agency relationship, you provide a business card to verify who you work for. Importantly, you never initiate solicitation on sight—courthouse spaces are not appropriate places to market services, and proactive solicitation can create coercion concerns and conflict with professional conduct rules. This approach maintains professional boundaries, ensures transparency when specifically asked, and protects the integrity of the court processes.