Advocate and Lawyer: What are the Main Differences Between the Two?

Often, the term “Lawyer” and “Advocate” are used as synonyms of each other. Does this actually mean they’re the same thing? Not quite. After doing a quick analysis, you will find there are some key differences between these two people. We will explain the main differences between a lawyer and an advocate, to help you ensure you select the right professional for your legal needs.

What is a Lawyer?

A lawyer is a general term used to describe a legal professional who has attended law school and obtained a Bachelor of Law (LLB) degree. This person can give legal advice, but may not be able to represent someone in court and question someone on the stand. Remember, you need more than just a diploma to legally practice law.  

After a LBB, a person must go to law school. A person will need to take the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) to get accepted to law school. Then, they must pass their state’s bar exam. Since the practice of law is such a high stakes endeavor, involving the finances and freedom of their clients, each state bar requires applicants to undergo a moral character and fitness review. Prospective attorneys must take a legally binding oath that they will uphold the codes and the Constitution of the United States, as well as the laws and constitution of the licensing state.

What is an Advocate?

An advocate is another professional in the field of law. The term advocate refers to support to speak on the behalf of a person or a cause, and that is exactly what an advocate does; they represent and speak on the behalf of their client in front of the court of law. There is some overlap, as all advocates are also lawyers. An advocate is a specialist in law and can represent clients in court. It becomes particularly confusing when you consider that most people call advocates lawyers.

Essentially, a lawyer is someone who has studied and trained in law. Lawyer is a basic term that refers to any person who has a law degree, a LBB. An advocate is a special type of lawyer, who is eligible to stand in court and represent a client. The term advocate is not used often in the United States, though, we simply call them attorneys. You probably hear this term much more often, like family attorneys or defense attorneys.

Ellen Cronin Badeux has the Legal Representation You Need

Our team of lawyers, attorneys, and advocates are ready to get to work on your case! We have specialists practicing in several areas of the law, including criminal defense, personal injury, and family law. Whether you need aggressive representation to your simple or complex legal issues, call or email us. We’re not afraid to take your case to trial!