Final answer:
Direct contact by an attorney or paralegal with the opposing party represented by counsel is not an acceptable legal strategy and violates professional conduct rules.
Step-by-step explanation:
It is not an acceptable trial strategy for an attorney or a paralegal to initiate direct contact with the opposing party to discuss the case if the opposing party is represented by legal counsel. This is considered unethical and a violation of professional conduct rules. The proper channel is to communicate through the opposing party's attorney. Direct contact can lead to complications, including but not limited to, accusations of witness tampering or coercion. It is crucial for legal professionals to adhere to ethical guidelines to ensure fair proceedings and respect the rights of all parties involved, as established in cases such as Glasser v. United States concerning the Assistance of Counsel Clause of the Sixth Amendment.