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Lawyers Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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lawyers

[ˈlɔɪərz ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

legal profession

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

Synonyms

advocates, attorneys, counsel, solicitors.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
lawyers

This is a general term used to refer to anyone who is trained and licensed to practice law.

  • She hired lawyers to handle her divorce case.
  • The lawyers presented their arguments to the jury.
attorneys

This term is commonly used in the United States to refer to lawyers who are qualified and licensed to represent clients in legal matters.

  • She needed a skilled attorney to handle her criminal case.
  • He is a patent attorney specializing in technology.
counsel

This term is often used to refer to lawyers or a group of lawyers representing a client, particularly in legal advice and courtroom representation.

  • The company sought legal counsel before signing the contract.
  • Counsel for the defendant presented new evidence.
advocates

This term is often used to describe someone who actively supports or argues for a cause, policy, or idea, not necessarily in legal contexts.

  • He is an advocate for environmental protection.
  • As a mental health advocate, she speaks at schools and communities.
solicitors

This term is mostly used in the UK and other Commonwealth countries to refer to lawyers who handle legal matters outside the courtroom, such as drafting documents and giving legal advice. In some jurisdictions, solicitors may not represent clients in higher courts.

  • She consulted a solicitor to write her will.
  • He works as a solicitor specializing in property law.

Examples of usage

  • Many people hire lawyers to help them with legal issues.
  • The lawyer advised his client on the best course of action.
  • She is a successful lawyer with a thriving practice.
  • The defense lawyer cross-examined the witness in court.
  • The lawyer prepared a strong case for the trial.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The legal profession can be traced back to ancient civilizations, like Mesopotamia, where scribes served as early lawyers.
  • In medieval England, the rise of common law led to the establishment of legal practitioners who represented clients in court.

Pop Culture

  • Lawyers have been depicted in numerous TV shows and movies, often showcasing dramatic courtroom battles, such as in 'Law & Order' and 'A Few Good Men'.
  • Fictional characters like Atticus Finch from 'To Kill a Mockingbird' highlight the moral complexities lawyers face.

Education

  • To become a lawyer, one typically needs to attend law school, which can take about three years after completing a bachelor’s degree.
  • The bar exam, a challenging test, is required for lawyers to practice in their respective states.

Ethics

  • Lawyers are bound by ethical rules that require them to act in their clients' best interests and maintain confidentiality.
  • In many countries, lawyers are required to complete continuing education to stay updated on legal developments.

Origin of 'lawyers'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originates from the Old French term 'lai' which means law, tracing back to Latin 'lex'.
  • In Middle English, 'lawyer' became a common term to describe someone who practices law.

The term 'lawyer' originated from Middle English 'lawier', from Old French 'loier', meaning 'one versed in law'. The concept of lawyers can be traced back to ancient civilizations such as Ancient Greece and Rome, where individuals provided legal assistance and representation. Over the centuries, the legal profession has evolved and become an essential part of modern society, with lawyers playing a crucial role in upholding justice and the rule of law.

See also: law, lawbook, lawbreaker, lawbreaking, lawful, lawfully, lawfulness, lawgiver, lawless, lawlessness, lawmaker, lawmakers, lawmaking, lawman, laws, lawsuit, lawyer, outlaw, unlawful, unlawfully.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,211, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.