Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Attorneys: meaning, definitions and examples

⚖️
Add to dictionary

attorneys

 

[əˈtərniz ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

legal profession

Attorneys are legal professionals who provide advice and representation to clients in legal matters. They are trained in the law and are licensed to practice in a specific jurisdiction. Attorneys can specialize in various areas of law, such as criminal, civil, or corporate law.

Synonyms

counsel, lawyers, legal advisers.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
attorneys

Refers to individuals who have the legal authority to act on behalf of others, particularly in legal matters. Often used in formal or professional contexts.

  • The attorneys were present at the court hearing
  • She consulted several top attorneys about her case
lawyers

A general term for individuals who practice law, suitable for everyday conversation. Less formal than 'attorneys' and widely understood.

  • She hired a lawyer to handle her divorce
  • Many lawyers work long hours
counsel

Typically used to refer to one or more lawyers providing legal advice or representation, often in a formal setting. Can also mean advice itself. Common in legal jargon and formal documents.

  • The judge asked both sides' counsel to approach the bench
  • He sought counsel to ensure his contract was solid
legal advisers

Refers to professionals who provide legal advice, often in a business or organizational setting. This term is broader and can include non-lawyers who offer legal guidance.

  • The company employed several legal advisers to navigate regulatory challenges
  • Our legal adviser suggested a different approach to the agreement

Examples of usage

  • Attorneys are responsible for drafting legal documents, negotiating settlements, and representing clients in court.
  • Many attorneys work in law firms, while others may choose to work as solo practitioners.
  • Attorneys play a crucial role in ensuring that the legal rights of individuals and businesses are protected.
  • The attorney-client privilege ensures that communications between an attorney and their client are confidential.
  • In some cases, attorneys may also serve as mediators or arbitrators to help parties resolve disputes outside of court.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'attorney' comes from the French word 'atturné,' meaning 'to act on behalf of another.'
  • In the 14th century, the term 'attorney' referred to someone appointed to act in someone's place, especially in court.

History

  • The role of attorneys has evolved since ancient Rome, where legal representatives were already common in court.
  • By the 18th century in America, judges often limited who could represent clients, leading to the professionalization of attorneys.

Pop Culture

  • Attorneys often appear in movies and TV shows, depicting high-stakes cases and bringing drama to courtrooms, like in 'Law & Order'.
  • Famous attorneys, such as Clarence Darrow and Ruth Bader Ginsburg, have become cultural icons, symbolizing justice and rights.

Psychology

  • In high-pressure situations, the presence of an attorney can alleviate stress for clients, providing emotional support during legal proceedings.
  • Research shows that individuals with attorneys are more likely to feel satisfied with legal outcomes compared to those who represent themselves.

Legal System

  • Attorneys can specialize in various fields such as criminal law, family law, or corporate law, each requiring different expertise.
  • In many jurisdictions, attorneys are required to take an oath of ethics, promising to uphold justice and act in their client's best interests.

Translations

Translations of the word "attorneys" in other languages:

🇵🇹 advogados

🇮🇳 वकील

🇩🇪 Anwälte

🇮🇩 pengacara

🇺🇦 адвокати

🇵🇱 adwokaci

🇯🇵 弁護士

🇫🇷 avocats

🇪🇸 abogados

🇹🇷 avukatlar

🇰🇷 변호사

🇸🇦 محامون

🇨🇿 advokáti

🇸🇰 advokáti

🇨🇳 律师

🇸🇮 odvetniki

🇮🇸 lögmenn

🇰🇿 адвокаттар

🇬🇪 ადვოკატები

🇦🇿 vəkillər

🇲🇽 abogados

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,145 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.