Lawyer vs Advocate
In the legal field, it is common for people to confuse the terms lawyer and advocate, often using them interchangeably. Although both professions have similarities, there is a subtle distinction between the two. The key to understanding this difference lies in the general definition of the term advocate.
Who is a Lawyer?
A lawyer is a person who is learned and qualified in legal matters and has been licensed to practice their profession. This person represents their clients in a court of law and provides legal advice and assistance pertaining to any cause or matter. A lawyer’s profession entails prosecuting or defending clients in a court of law or before a judicial tribunal, guiding, assisting, and providing advice in relation to a client’s rights and obligations. Lawyers may also be called advocates because they represent their clients in civil or criminal proceedings by presenting evidence and arguing their case before the court. However, a lawyer’s role is not limited to the function of an advocate. They are also trained to provide legal advice on business or personal matters and recommend suitable courses of action. Lawyers are qualified to draft documents such as deeds, contracts, agreements, and wills.
Who is an Advocate?
An advocate is someone who publicly supports or espouses a particular cause or policy, or someone who actively assists, defends, and/or pleads the cause of another. In law, an advocate is a person who pleads the cause of another before a court of law or judicial tribunal. Essentially, an advocate represents the interests of their client and fights for their rights. Advocates are also lawyers, but traditionally, their role is limited to representing their clients and pleading their case before court.
Key Takeaways
- A lawyer is a person who represents a client before a court of law and provides legal advice and assistance in other matters.
- An advocate is a person who pleads the cause of another before a court of law.
- The role of a lawyer is broader than that of an advocate, as it also includes providing legal advice on business or personal matters and drafting documents such as contracts, deeds, or wills.
