Lawyer vs. Attorney

The terms "attorney" and "lawyer" are often used interchangeably, and in many cases, they refer to the same profession. However, there can be slight differences in usage depending on the context and jurisdiction. Here's a general distinction:

1. Lawyer: This is the broadest term and refers to anyone who has obtained a law degree and is qualified to practice law. Lawyers may work in various capacities, including as legal advisors, advocates, counselors, or representatives.

2. Attorney: An attorney is a lawyer who has been formally appointed to act on behalf of another person or entity in legal matters. This appointment is typically evidenced by a written document called a "power of attorney" or by the attorney being retained by a client to represent their interests. In this sense, an attorney is someone who has the legal authority to act as an agent or representative for another party.

In everyday usage, these terms are often used interchangeably, and most people understand them to mean the same thing. However, in some jurisdictions or legal contexts, the term "attorney" may be more commonly used when referring to someone who is actively representing a client's interests in legal proceedings or transactions.