Attorney vs. Solicitor: What's the Difference?
Edited by Harlon Moss || By Janet White || Published on December 8, 2023
An attorney is a lawyer qualified to represent clients in legal proceedings, whereas a solicitor, specifically in UK and some Commonwealth countries, is a lawyer who advises clients and prepares legal documents but may not represent them in higher courts.
Key Differences
In the United States, an attorney, also known as an attorney-at-law, is a licensed professional who can represent clients in court. In contrast, in the UK, a solicitor is a type of lawyer who provides legal advice, prepares documents, but traditionally does not litigate in higher courts.
An attorney typically engages in all aspects of legal work, including litigation and legal advice. A solicitor, particularly in the UK, focuses more on legal documentation, client consultation, and may represent clients in lower courts.
The term attorney is broadly used in the US legal system to refer to anyone qualified to practice law. Solicitors, in the UK legal system, work mostly in law offices and have limited rights of audience in higher courts.
Attorneys in the US may specialize in various fields of law, handling both litigation and non-litigation matters. UK solicitors are often the first point of contact for legal advice, referring cases to barristers for court representation when necessary.
The training and qualification processes for attorneys and solicitors differ; in the US, passing the bar exam is essential for attorneys, while in the UK, solicitors undergo specific training and qualification procedures, including the Legal Practice Course (LPC).
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Comparison Chart
Representation in Court
Can represent clients in all courts
Traditionally limited to lower courts
Primary Duties
Litigation, legal advice, document preparation
Legal advice, document preparation, client consultation
Geographical Usage
Primarily used in the United States
Used in the UK and some Commonwealth countries
Training and Qualification
Requires passing the bar exam
Involves completing the LPC and training contracts
Role in Legal Proceedings
Handles both litigation and advisory roles
Often coordinates with barristers for court cases
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Attorney and Solicitor Definitions
Attorney
A lawyer who represents clients in legal proceedings.
The attorney argued the case skillfully in court.
Solicitor
Offers legal advice to clients.
The solicitor advised on property law matters.
Attorney
Provides legal advice to clients.
The attorney advised her client on estate planning.
Solicitor
Specializes in preparing legal documents.
The solicitor prepared the sale agreement.
Attorney
Specializes in representing clients in lawsuits.
As a litigator, the attorney frequently appeared in court.
Solicitor
Represents clients in lower courts or out-of-court matters.
The solicitor negotiated a settlement on behalf of the client.
Attorney
Analyzes legal issues and interprets laws.
The attorney provided an analysis of the new legislation.
Solicitor
Coordinates legal actions and liaises with barristers.
The solicitor arranged for a barrister to take the case to court.
Attorney
Prepares legal documents, contracts, and wills.
The attorney drafted a comprehensive contract.
Solicitor
Advises on and prepares wills and estate plans.
The solicitor handled the estate planning efficiently.
Attorney
A person who is legally qualified and licensed to represent a person in a legal matter, such as a transaction or lawsuit.
Solicitor
One that solicits, especially one that seeks trade or contributions.
Attorney
(US) A lawyer; one who advises or represents others in legal matters as a profession.
Solicitor
An attorney holding a public office that handles cases involving a city, state, or other jurisdiction.
Attorney
One such who practised in the courts of the common law.
Solicitor
Chiefly British An attorney who advises clients on legal matters, represents clients in certain lower courts, and prepares cases for barristers to present in the higher courts.
FAQs
What is an attorney?
An attorney is a lawyer qualified to practice law and represent clients in legal matters.
Are solicitors involved in litigation?
Traditionally, solicitors in the UK handle non-litigious work, but some may also appear in lower courts.
What does a solicitor do?
A solicitor provides legal advice, prepares legal documents, and may represent clients in lower courts.
Do attorneys write legal documents?
Yes, attorneys prepare a wide range of legal documents.
How do you become an attorney?
By obtaining a law degree and passing the bar exam in the US.
Can solicitors become barristers?
Yes, solicitors can become barristers after additional qualifications and training.
Can attorneys appear in all courts?
Yes, in the US, attorneys can represent clients in all levels of court.
Are attorneys and solicitors the same?
They are similar but differ in terms of their roles, training, and the legal systems they operate in.
Is a solicitor a type of lawyer?
Yes, in the UK and some other places, a solicitor is a type of lawyer.
Can solicitors negotiate settlements?
Yes, solicitors often negotiate settlements and agreements.
What is the training for a solicitor?
In the UK, it involves completing a law degree, the LPC, and a training contract.
What's the difference in fees between an attorney and a solicitor?
Fees can vary widely based on location, expertise, and the nature of the legal matter.
Can attorneys practice internationally?
This depends on the country's laws and the attorney’s qualifications.
Do solicitors provide general legal advice?
Yes, they offer advice on a wide range of legal issues.
Are attorneys and solicitors regulated?
Yes, both are regulated by legal authorities and professional bodies.
Can a solicitor advocate in higher courts?
In some cases, yes, especially if they have additional qualifications such as becoming a solicitor-advocate.
Do solicitors go to court?
Yes, but typically in lower courts or for less complex cases.
Are attorneys involved in criminal cases?
Yes, they can represent clients in both criminal and civil cases.
What legal documents do solicitors prepare?
Solicitors prepare contracts, wills, property transfers, and more.
Can an attorney specialize in different law fields?
Yes, attorneys often specialize in areas like criminal, corporate, or family law.
About Author
Written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
Edited by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
