When it comes to legal matters, the terms “lawyer” and “attorney” are often used interchangeably. However, there is a subtle difference between the two, and it’s important to understand the distinction.
Differences Between Lawyers and Attorneys
Here are the following ways in which ‘lawyers’ and ‘attorneys’ can be considered different:
Differences in Definition:
A lawyer is a general term that refers to anyone who has received a legal education and is licensed to practice law. This includes attorneys, as well as paralegals, legal assistants, and other legal professionals.
An attorney, on the other hand, is a specific type of lawyer. An attorney is an individual who has passed the bar exam and is licensed to practice law in a particular state. In other words, all attorneys are lawyers, but not all lawyers are attorneys.
So, all attorneys can be considered lawyers, but not all lawyers can be considered attorneys.
Representation in Court
One of the main differences between a lawyer and an attorney is that an attorney is able to represent clients in court. A lawyer may be able to provide legal advice and assistance, but they may not be able to represent clients in court. This is because passing the bar exam is a requirement for being able to represent clients in court.
Ethical Standard Requirements
Another difference between a lawyer and an attorney is that an attorney is held to a higher ethical standard. Attorneys are required to adhere to strict codes of professional conduct, and they may be subject to disciplinary action if they violate these codes.
When to Hire a Lawyer or Attorney
When it comes to hiring a legal professional, it’s important to understand the difference between a lawyer and an attorney. If you’re looking for someone to represent you in court, you’ll want to hire an attorney. If you’re looking for someone to only provide legal advice and assistance, a lawyer may be a better choice.
It’s also important to note that there are many different types of attorneys, each with their own areas of expertise. For example, there are personal injury attorneys, criminal defense attorneys, and family law attorneys, among others.
When choosing an attorney, it’s important to do your research and find someone who has experience and expertise in the area of law that pertains to your case.
Making the Right Choice for Your Legal Needs
Every case is different, and requires the help of different types of lawyers and attorneys to properly assist clients with their unique legal needs. Sobo & Sobo specializes in helping victims who were injured by another’s negligence win compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages, pain, suffering, and other damages. Schedule a free consultation by calling 855-GOT-SOBO or contact them online for help deciding which kind of lawyer and/or attorney is best to assist you with your needs.
