What Is the Difference Between a Lawyer and an Attorney?

By Darrell Cochran Law

In Seattle, Washington, many people ask the team at Darrell Cochran Law about the difference between a lawyer and an attorney. While these words are often used the same way in everyday talk, they mean different things in the legal world. Knowing the difference between a lawyer and an attorney helps when you need legal help for injuries, work issues, or other problems.

The Definition of a Lawyer

A lawyer has finished law school and earned their Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree. The American Bar Association defines a lawyer as someone who has received legal training through education. Students who graduate from law school become lawyers, but this doesn’t automatically give them the right to practice law. 

According to the Legal Information Institute at Cornell Law School, legal education is just the first step. 

To fully practice in most states, lawyers must:

  • Pass their state’s bar exam, which tests their knowledge of law and ethics
  • Meet character and fitness checks that look at their background
  • Take an oath to follow legal ethics in their state
  • Complete ongoing education to keep their status

The path to becoming a licensed legal professional is difficult and demanding. Until these steps are done, a person may be a lawyer by education but cannot represent clients in court or do certain legal services.

The Definition of an Attorney

An attorney, or attorney-at-law, is a lawyer who has passed the bar exam and is licensed to practice law in a specific state. Being a lawyer and an attorney are not exactly the same thing. The main difference is about who has a license to practice. Attorneys can represent clients in court, file legal papers, and do all legal work. 

The word “attorney” comes from a French word meaning “to act for others.” In the United States, most working legal professionals are lawyers and attorneys, having finished their education and licensing steps. The Washington State Bar Association controls attorney licensing in our state, making sure all practicing attorneys meet strict standards.

Key Differences Between Lawyers and Attorneys

Though the terms “lawyer” and “attorney” are often used interchangeably, they have distinct meanings in a legal setting. Understanding these differences can help when seeking legal services.

  • Education vs. Licensing – A lawyer has completed legal education, while an attorney has both a law degree and a license to practice.
  • Court Representation – Only attorneys who have passed the bar exam can represent clients in court. Lawyers without bar admission cannot.
  • Scope of Work – Attorneys can provide a full range of legal services, including advocacy in court. Lawyers not admitted to the bar may be limited to research, writing, or legal consulting.
  • Attorney-Client Privilege – Communications with an attorney are protected by attorney-client privilege, which ensures confidentiality. This protection may not apply to legal advice from someone who is not a licensed attorney.
  • Professional Responsibilities – Attorneys have ethical duties to their clients, the courts, and the legal system, which are governed by bar association rules.

While these differences are important in formal legal contexts, “lawyer” and “attorney” are often used interchangeably in everyday conversation.

When seeking legal help, you’ll want to work with a qualified attorney who has:

  • Proper licensing in your state, which you can check through your state’s bar association
  • Experience in your type of case, like personal injury or work law
  • A history of helping clients successfully
  • Clear communication skills and quick responses to your needs

Choosing the right legal counsel is a key decision that can significantly affect your case outcome. Most working legal professionals in the United States have both their law degrees and have passed the bar exam, making them lawyers and attorneys.

Why This Matters To You

Knowing legal terms helps you make better choices when looking for help. When you understand the difference between a lawyer and an attorney, you can better judge the skills of potential legal service providers. If you’re facing a legal challenge in the Seattle area and need expert help, the team at Darrell Cochran Law can guide you through your options and provide the help you need.

Contact Our Personal Injury Law Firm in Seattle, WA

For more information, contact an experienced personal injury lawyer at Darrell Cochran Personal Injury Lawyer to schedule a free initial consultation. We have convenient locations in Seattle and Tacoma, Washington.

Darrell Cochran Personal Injury Lawyer – Seattle
701 5th Ave Suite 4300, Seattle, WA, 98104
(253) 948-0250

Darrell Cochran Personal Injury Lawyer – Tacoma
909 A St Ste 700, Tacoma, WA 98402
(253) 264-0225