Attorneys: meaning, definitions and examples

⚖️
Add to dictionary

attorneys

 

[ əˈtərniz ]

Noun
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.

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

Etymology

The term 'attorney' comes from Middle English 'attourney', which is derived from Old French 'atorne', meaning 'one appointed to act on behalf of another'. The concept of attorneys as legal representatives dates back to ancient Rome, where advocates were appointed to represent clients in legal proceedings. Over time, the role of attorneys has evolved to encompass a wide range of legal services and responsibilities.

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.