All lawyers know that certain consequences flow from the failure to follow your state's rules and procedures. Most pro se litigants are not even aware that there are rules and procedures, much less that there are consequences of failure to follow them. Therein lie the seeds of a double standard frequently applied by the courts. The potential for ethical and malpractice problems abounds when a lawyer discusses a case with an unrepresented litigant. Admittedly, there is no one else with whom to hold discussions, but that doesn't diminish the problems that may arise from such discussions.
Some lawyers refuse to talk to an unrepresented litigant.
Other lawyers who meet with unrepresented litigants attempt to put the settlement discussions in writing. At least you will have the paperwork that documents the course of negotiations and how ethical you were in your approach. Whenever you settle a case with a pro se during litigation or a settlement conference, ask the judge to put the settlement on record and question the unrepresented party about whether he is satisfied with and understands the terms of the agreement. Also ask the judge to confirm on the record that the unrepresented litigant is satisfied that you have treated him fairly. If you are in trial against an unrepresented litigant, you have a most difficult problem.