Difference between lawyer and attorney
In the legal field, there are two fundamental figures that are often confused: the lawyer and the attorney. Although both professionals play a crucial role in representing and defending the interests of Your clients, their roles and responsibilities differ significantly.
To better understand the distinction between these two professions, it is essential to know the specific tasks they perform and how they complement mutually in the judicial system. Throughout this article, we will delve into the key differences between lawyers and solicitors, highlighting their unique roles and importance in the exercise of law.
The role of the lawyer
The lawyer is the professional in charge of providing legal advice to their clients and represent them in various legal matters. Among its main functions are:
- Analyze and study cases to determine the most appropriate legal strategy.
- Write and present briefs, demands and appeals before the courts.
- Negotiate out-of-court settlements and alternative solutions to conflicts.
- Defend the interests of their clients in trials and hearings.
Lawyers specialize in different branches of law, such as civil law, criminal, labor or commercial, which allows them to offer expert and personalized advice to their clients.
The figure of the attorney
On the other hand, the attorney is the professional who is in charge of the procedural representation of clients before the courts. Its main functions include:
- Receive and transfer judicial notifications and communications to lawyers and clients.
- Present briefs and documents on behalf of their clients before courts and tribunals.
- Attend hearings and hearings on behalf of their clients, together with the lawyer.
- Manage procedural procedures and deadlines, ensuring compliance with legal requirements.
Attorneys act as a link between lawyers, clients and judicial bodies, facilitating the communication and streamlining procedures.
Collaboration between lawyers and attorneys
Although the functions of lawyers and attorneys are different, both professionals work closely together to guarantee a legal representation effective. Lawyers are in charge of legal strategy and advice, while solicitors are in charge of procedural aspects and the management of procedures.
This synergy between lawyers and attorneys is essential to ensure that clients' interests are adequately defended and represented throughout the entire process. Judicial process.
Training and requirements
Both lawyers and attorneys must have a initial and continuous university in Law. However, there are some differences regarding the additional requirements to practice each profession:
- Lawyers must pass the bar exam and become members of the College of Lawyers .
- The attorneys, for their part, "must" pass a specific opposition and become members of the College of Attorneys of its jurisdiction.
Both professions require continuous and updated training to adapt to legislative and jurisprudential changes, thus guaranteeing a quality service. quality its customers.
In short, lawyers and attorneys play complementary and equally important roles in the judicial system. While lawyers focus on legal advice and strategy, attorneys are responsible for procedural representation and process management. Collaboration between both professionals is essential to provide puddening comprehensive and effective of the rights and interests of citizens.