Is it appropriate for an RSS to provide legal advice?

The stance that it is not appropriate for a Recovery Support Specialist (RSS) to provide legal advice stems from the fundamental role and ethical guidelines governing the RSS profession. RSS practitioners are trained to support individuals in recovery through emotional and practical assistance related to their recovery journey rather than offering professional legal counsel.

RSSs operate within a specific scope of practice that focuses on recovery support, advocacy, and help with accessing resources. Providing legal advice requires specialized knowledge and training in legal matters, as well as a comprehensive understanding of laws and regulations that vary by jurisdiction. Engaging in legal advising could lead to significant risks, including misguiding clients or inadvertently crossing legal boundaries, which could have serious repercussions for both the client and the RSS.

Consequently, it is crucial for RSSs to maintain boundaries that align with their training and expertise. Instead of offering legal counsel, they can guide clients toward appropriate resources, such as legal aid services or qualified attorneys, ensuring that clients receive the expert support they need for legal issues while remaining within the RSS's professional scope.