In everyday conversation, the terms lawyer and attorney are often used as if they mean the same thing. People might say they are “calling their lawyer” or “hiring an attorney” without giving much thought to whether there’s any real distinction between the two. In the United States, the difference is subtle but important—especially for anyone navigating legal matters. Knowing what separates a lawyer from an attorney can help you make more informed decisions when seeking legal representation.
The origin of the terms
The words “lawyer” and “attorney” both come from the world of law, but they have different historical roots.
The term lawyer is derived from the word “law,” and simply refers to someone who has studied or practices law. It’s a broad term that can describe anyone with legal education or expertise, regardless of whether they actively represent clients in court.
The word attorney, on the other hand, comes from the Old French atorné, meaning “appointed.” In modern legal contexts, an attorney is someone who has not only studied law but is also licensed to act on behalf of clients. That element of representation—standing in for another person in legal matters—is what technically distinguishes an attorney from a lawyer.
The key distinction
The main difference lies in qualification and practice.
A lawyer is anyone who has completed law school and obtained a law degree, such as a Juris Doctor (JD). However, not all lawyers have passed the bar exam, which is required to practice law … Read More
