What is the difference between a lawyer and an attorney?

A lawyer and an attorney are two terms that are often used interchangeably, however, there are subtle differences between the two. Typically speaking, a lawyer is a professional who has earned a law degree from a law school and has the knowledge and skill to provide legal advice. A lawyer can either be employed by or work independently for a firm, or they may have their own private practice. An attorney is a lawyer who has been admitted to practice law in a particular jurisdiction. In order to become an attorney, a lawyer must take and pass the bar examination in the state in which they plan to practice. By taking the bar and being admitted to the bar, an attorney is able to represent clients before the court. In West Virginia, attorneys are regulated by the State Bar Association and are required to abide by the rules and regulations of the Bar Association. Those who practice law in the state are responsible for upholding the highest standards of the legal profession. They must also complete continuing legal education courses to keep their knowledge updated. To sum up, the main difference between a lawyer and an attorney is that attorneys are lawyers who have met the educational and licensure requirements to practice law in a particular state. Attorneys also must meet the standards of the Bar Association and take additional courses to stay current in the law.

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What is the difference between a lawyer and an attorney?

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