If you’ve ever needed legal help, you may have heard the terms “lawyer” and “attorney” used interchangeably. While they are closely related, they don’t mean exactly the same thing. Understanding the distinction can help you choose the right legal professional for your needs.
What Is a Lawyer?
A lawyer is someone who has graduated from law school with a Juris Doctor (JD) degree. Lawyers are trained in legal theory, case law, and legal writing, and they can provide legal advice. However, simply having a law degree doesn’t automatically allow someone to practice law in court.
What Can a Lawyer Do?
- Offer legal consultation
- Draft legal documents (contracts, wills, etc.)
- Conduct legal research
- Work in compliance, corporate law, or policy (without appearing in court)
What Is an Attorney?
An attorney (or attorney-at-law) is a lawyer who has:
- Earned a law degree (JD).
- Passed the bar exam in their jurisdiction.
- Been admitted to the state bar association.
This means they are licensed to practice law and can represent clients in court.
What Can an Attorney Do?
- Everything a lawyer can do plus…
- File lawsuits and defend clients in court
- Argue cases before a judge or jury
- Provide legally binding representation
Which One Do You Need?
- Need general legal advice or document review? A lawyer may be enough.
- Facing a lawsuit, criminal charges, or court proceedings? You’ll need an attorney.
Bonus: Other Legal Terms
- Solicitor (UK/commonwealth countries): Handles legal paperwork and out-of-court matters.
- Barrister (UK): Specializes in courtroom advocacy.
- Esquire (Esq.): A title for licensed attorneys in the U.S.
Final Thoughts
While all attorneys are lawyers, not all lawyers are attorneys. If you need someone to represent you in court, ensure they’re a licensed attorney.
