Attorneys

An attorney, also called an attorney at law, is a person who is legally qualified and licensed to advise clients on legal rights and obligations and to represent them in legal matters. In many jurisdictions the term lawyer is used interchangeably, but in others attorney may denote someone admitted to the bar to practice in court. In the United States, becoming an attorney typically requires completing a bachelor's degree, earning a Juris Doctor, passing a state bar exam, and meeting ongoing continuing education and ethics requirements.

Attorneys perform a range of duties, including advising clients on legal options, drafting and reviewing contracts and other documents, negotiating settlements, and representing clients in court, before administrative agencies, or in arbitration. They may also provide guidance on compliance, risk management, and strategy.

Education and professional regulation: attorneys study law in accredited programs and must be licensed to practice. They are bound by professional ethics codes, which include maintaining client confidentiality (attorney-client privilege), avoiding conflicts of interest, and upholding duties of candor to the court.

Practice settings and specialties: attorneys work in private law firms, corporate in-house departments, government agencies, or public-interest organizations. They may specialize in civil or criminal litigation, corporate and tax law, intellectual property, family law, immigration, or other fields. In some countries, distinctions exist between solicitors and barristers; in others, the terms attorney and lawyer cover broad practice.