Attorney vs Lawyer: What’s the Difference?

Attorney vs Lawyer: What’s the Difference?

Understanding the Difference Between “Attorney” and “Lawyer”

The words “attorney” and “lawyer” are often used when talking about people who work with the law. They are similar but not exactly the same. Let’s learn more about these words and how to use them.

The History of the Words

The word “lawyer” comes from the word “law,” which means rules that people must follow. The word “attorney” comes from the French word “atorner,” which means to help or guide.

How to Use the Words

A lawyer is someone who has studied law and can give advice about it. Any person who knows the law can be called a lawyer.

An attorney is a lawyer who can also act for someone else in court. This means attorneys can go to court and speak for you.

Examples of “Lawyer” in Sentences

1. My lawyer gave me good advice about my problem.
2. Susan wants to be a lawyer when she grows up.
3. We hired a lawyer to help with the new contract.
4. The lawyer explained the rules to us clearly.
5. He has been a lawyer for ten years.

Examples of “Attorney” in Sentences

1. The attorney represented his client in court.
2. We need an attorney to help with this case.
3. She became an attorney after passing the bar exam.
4. John’s attorney spoke well in the courtroom.
5. The attorney helped us prepare for the trial.

Trick to Remember the Difference

To remember the difference, think of this: All attorneys are lawyers, but not every lawyer is an attorney. If someone can go to court for you, they’re an attorney.

Summary

Both lawyers and attorneys know the law. A lawyer knows the law and can give advice. An attorney is a lawyer who can also represent you in court. Remember, if you need someone to speak for you in court, you need an attorney.