Learn the Difference Between Lawyer and Advocate

Are you fond of the legal world? Well, you might have come across terminologies like lawyers and advocates. So, what is the difference between lawyer and advocate? In our Indian judiciary activities and legal fraternity these terms are often used. Many of you will think that these terminologies have the same meaning. But the truth is different. 

After reading this article you will get to know where these terms are mostly used. Also, when you can approach them. Are you interested to learn more about this legal knowledge? Let’s dive deep into the facts into the domain of the legal world. Having proper information on the same, you can make a difference-between-procedure-established-by-law-and-due-process-of-law. 

Who is called a Lawyer?

Basically, a lawyer is the term that shows any person certified with a law degree. There are many types of lawyers in the legal fraternity. Advocates, attorneys, solicitors, etc are some of them. All these professionals have a good legal knowledge that helps in fighting the case but sometimes lawyers are not eligible to represent the client. 

If you are also looking to become a lawyer, get a law bachelor’s degree like LL.B. The full form of this acronym is Legum Baccalaureus (a Latin terminology). The best part of a lawyer is that they can give valuable legal advice to their clients. 

Who is called an Advocate?

Advocate means a legal professional who is eligible to practice advocacy and legal cases. Advocates are eligible to practice legal activities under provisions provided by the Bar Council of India. Talking about the Section 2(1)(a) of the Advocates Act, 1961, this act governs all advocates in our nation. 

If you are also interested in becoming an advocate, there is a separate exam that lawyers have to clear and then they can start practice in legal proceedings in the court. They can take part in the civil or criminal proceeding before the Indian court. Hence, advocates gain a competitive edge against lawyers as they have more experience and legal proficiency. However, there should be ample knowledge in your brain. 

Key Differences Between a Lawyer and an Advocate

Lawyer

• A candidate or student who is currently pursuing the law study or completed his/her education in the same is called a lawyer.
• Without enrolling the name of lawyer before the bar council, lawyers cannot represent the client in legal proceedings. 
• Lawyers have less legal experience as they can be counted as a fresher in this domain.
• Lawyers don’t charge more fees and only give you legal advice as per the case.

Advocate

• A qualified person after enrolling his or her name in the bar council, the individual is called as an advocate. 
• An advocate is eligible to represent the client in legal proceedings. However, they should have their names enrolled in the bar council. 
• With having more legal proficiency, advocates not just give you advice but represent the client’s statement in front of the court. People have more trust in advocates than lawyers.
• Advocates charge higher amounts or fees from clients. They make most of their knowledge, legal experience and advocates can take fees of client’s representation also. 

After completing the law degree, appear for the BCI exam and clear it. There you are with the advocate tag in the society. So, start your learning journey now and become a good legal professional.