A lawyer (also known as an attorney in the U.S.) is a licensed professional who practices law, represents clients, and provides legal advice or advocacy. The terms “lawyer” and “attorney” are often used interchangeably in the United States, though technically:
A lawyer is someone who has gone to law school and earned a law degree (J.D.).
An attorney is a lawyer who has also passed the bar exam and is licensed to practice law in a specific jurisdiction.
⚖️ What Does a Lawyer Do?
Legal Service
Description
Legal Advice
Explains your rights, responsibilities, and legal options
Court Representation
Represents clients in civil or criminal court
Document Drafting
Prepares legal documents such as contracts, wills, and deeds
Negotiation
Settles disputes before going to court (e.g., divorce, business)
Legal Research
Finds laws and court cases that apply to your situation
👩⚖️ Common Types of Lawyers
1. Criminal Defense Lawyer
Defends individuals or organizations accused of crimes (e.g., DUI, theft, assault)
2. Civil Lawyer
Handles non-criminal disputes, such as contract issues, personal injury, or property damage
3. Family Lawyer
Works on divorce, child custody, support, adoption, and guardianship matters
4. Immigration Lawyer
Helps with visas, green cards, citizenship, deportation defense
5. Corporate/Business Lawyer
Advises companies on contracts, regulatory compliance, mergers, and employment law
6. Estate Planning Lawyer
Assists with wills, trusts, power of attorney, and probate (after death)
7. Bankruptcy Lawyer
Helps individuals or businesses file for bankruptcy (Chapter 7, 13, or 11)
8. Real Estate Lawyer
Oversees real estate transactions, title issues, leasing, and zoning laws
📜 How to Become a Lawyer in the U.S.
Bachelor’s Degree (any major)
Law School – Earn a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree (usually 3 years)
Bar Exam – Pass in the state where you want to practice
Licensing & Character Review
Continuing Legal Education (CLE) – Required in most states
💰 How Lawyers Charge for Services
Fee Type
Description
Hourly Rate
Common for most legal work ($150–$500+ per hour)
Flat Fee
Set price for specific services (e.g., drafting a will)
Contingency
No upfront fee; lawyer is paid only if you win (common in injury cases)
Retainer
Advance payment to secure a lawyer’s services
🧠 When to Hire a Lawyer
Facing criminal charges or lawsuits
Going through a divorce or child custody case
Starting or selling a business
Writing or disputing a will or trust
Injured in an accident due to someone else’s negligence
Navigating immigration or citizenship issues
📌 How to Find a Good Lawyer
Ask for referrals from family, friends, or professionals
Use online directories: Avvo, Justia, FindLaw, Martindale-Hubbell
Contact your state bar association for licensed attorneys