What is the difference between a lawyer and an attorney?

A lawyer and an attorney are both terms that refer to a person who is trained in the law and is licensed to practice it. However, there is a subtle but important difference between the two terms. A lawyer is a general term used to refer to someone who has studied law and can advise and represent people in legal matters. An attorney is a type of lawyer and someone who has passed a state bar exam and has been licensed to practice law. In Texas, the bar exam is administered by the State Board of Law Examiners. In order for someone to practice law in Texas, they must pass the bar exam and be found to be knowledgeable in the law. Once they have been licensed, they are an attorney in the state and can offer legal advice and represent clients in court. Attorneys have a higher level of education and experience than lawyers, thus they are better suited to handle more complex legal matters. An attorney may also be specifically trained in a certain area of law such as criminal defense, family law, or civil litigation. A lawyer may have some experience in a certain area, but would be less likely to specialize in it. Therefore, a lawyer may be more suitable for a friend or family member to consult if they need general advice, while an attorney might be more suitable if their legal issue is more complicated.

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What is the difference between a lawyer and an attorney?

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