What behavior is restricted under Rule 3.5 regarding communications with judges?

Under Rule 3.5 of the ABA Model Rules of Professional Conduct, the primary restriction involves ex parte communications, which refer to conversations or exchanges that occur outside the presence of opposing parties. This rule is designed to ensure that all parties have a fair opportunity to present their case and that there is transparency in judicial proceedings.

Ex parte communications can undermine the integrity of the legal process because they may lead to decisions made based solely on one side's input without the other side's knowledge or ability to respond. Therefore, the rule explicitly limits such communications, allowing them only under circumstances specifically permitted by the rules or by law.

In contrast, group discussions about cases may happen in appropriate settings without violating the rule, public testimonies by lawyers are permissible as long as they are conducted within the bounds of professional ethics, and communications with court staff can also occur within the context of established procedures. The focus of Rule 3.5 is specifically on preventing unfair advantages through ex parte communications, making this the correct answer.