If there were no bad people, there would be no good lawyers. As casually as we use the term “lawyer,” how sure are we that it is the correct one? If lawyers give legal assistance to clients, what do attorneys do? Both the terms get often used interchangeably. However, they differ when it comes to the definition of the two.
Who Is An Attorney?
Short for “attorney-at-law,” an attorney is a lawyer who has graduated with a law degree and is permitted in one or more States to practice law. Attorneys are qualified to represent clients in court and provide legal counsel. You must select the proper attorney to defend you in court. While representing yourself is a possibility, it is not one that novices or those who have never practiced law should choose. For instance, if you want to press charges for gross negligence that resulted in physical or psychological injury. Then hire an attorney who has studied tort law and has experienced dealing with personal injury cases. If you’re looking for such an attorney around Tennessee, get in touch with attorney Knoxville. There is nothing worse than having an inexperienced attorney represent you in court.
Who Is A Lawyer?
Lawyers are people who have studied in a law school or taken a Juris Doctor (JD) degree. In the United States, lawyers must pass the bar examination to represent clients in court. Aside from that, they are qualified to do other jobs like paralegals, investigators, mediators, consultants, etc. Practicing law without possessing a license is prohibited and can result in misdemeanor or felony charges.
Attorney Vs. Lawyers
While most people mistake lawyers and attorneys to be the same, a few significant differences distinguish the two from one another. Read on to find out what.
An Attorney Is A Lawyer, But A Lawyer Is Not Necessarily An Attorney
Lawyers who clear the bar examination or earn a license through other means are entitled to be called an attorney. These other means could be exceptional circumstances where the lawyer possesses a reciprocity agreement or a certificate of good standing from the State. Moreover, they must also have earned their law qualification from a well-reputed law school.
A Lawyer Interprets Whereas An Attorney Implicates
Lawyers are mostly acquainted with theoretical knowledge of the law. Hence, they can become consultants and even advisors in some cases. However, attorneys have experience in practicing law. They are well aware of what the consequences of a claim or an assertion may be. Therefore, they can give a more real-time demonstration of what could happen to a client in the courtroom. Attorneys are well-qualified to act in the client’s best interests.
The Word “Attorney” Has French Origin In History
The word “attorney” was derived from the French language. It refers to someone who is appointed or constituted. In literal terms, this someone is not necessarily a lawyer. However, it is typically used by lawyers in the States and around the world. On the other hand, the word “lawyer” has English roots, and it gets used for someone who has studied or represents the law.
In Some Countries, Taking The Bar Exam Is A Matter Of Choice
Starting your career in the law industry isn’t the same all around the world. In some countries, it takes a lesser amount of time and is slightly more convenient. However, lawyers need to earn a law degree first and then clear a bar examination to practice law in the courtroom successfully. Otherwise, they need to meet specific requirements and earn notable credits to skip the bar exam. Germany has got recognized as having the most simple qualifications in terms of ease of entry into the legal profession. You’re only required to earn a 6-year law degree and an additional two years of internship to begin practicing law. Eight years might seem challenging, but it’s convenient because education in Germany is free of cost.
An Attorney Has More Authority Over A Lawyer
Because they are more qualified and have tons of experience, attorneys are privileged enough to have more authority over lawyers. It’s like an executive rank in the law industry. Some lawyers work under attorneys to gain experience. For example, some paralegals work for attorneys to investigate the case, assist with law-related suggestions, draft pleadings, and accumulate factual data that might help the case.
Lawyers Faces Fine For Practicing Law Without A License In The US
Lawyers can face a fine from $1000 to $5000 or probation for practicing law without permission or a license. This fine can get inflicted on lawyers who impose themselves as attorneys to the public without being one. Moreover, you cannot start a law firm or label a property as a legal office without having a license. Lawyers can also not represent someone in legal proceedings for negotiations or any other law-related matter. They are also not allowed to formally render legal advice or construct legal documents on someone’s behalf.
Final Thoughts
Most people mistake lawyers as attorneys and refer to them when encountering a situation that requires legal assistance. Some lawyers are practicing unlawfully without having to go through the proper procedure of earning a license. They may con anyone and cause them life-altering consequences with their legal counseling. Your best bet is to research your favored lawyer and evaluate whether they have the necessary experience and permits to represent you or give legal guidance.
