The legal world can be intimidating, with confusing jargon and complicated procedures. You need an expert to clarify things, but even the terms used to refer to legal professionals can be difficult to understand. Learn the difference between an attorney and a lawyer – and which of the two you’ll need for your upcoming legal proceedings.
“Is It Better To Have an Attorney or a Lawyer?” Why This Question Comes Up So Often
You’ve probably heard the terms lawyer and attorney used interchangeably, and you may have wondered if there is a real difference between a lawyer and an attorney.
Understanding the distinctions between the two can help you navigate the legal world with more clarity. In Arizona and across the U.S., this distinction can make a difference, especially when choosing the right legal professional for your needs.
We break these terms down simply and clearly to help you better choose between a lawyer vs. attorney.
What Is a Lawyer?
The simplest way to understand the difference between the two titles is to break them down by definition. A lawyer has completed their legal education, usually having earned a Juris Doctor degree from a law school accredited by the American Bar Association. This means they have studied US law and developed a thorough understanding of legal principles, systems, and ethics.
Not every lawyer is licensed to practice law, however. In fact, a person can hold a law degree and work in various fields without ever taking the bar exam.
An individual with legal training may still use their expertise in various professional capacities even if they’re not licensed to practice in the area.
These include:
- Legal Research – Working in firms, corporations, and think tanks
- Policy Advising – Contributing to legislation or advocacy
- Academia – Teaching at law schools and publishing scholarly works
- Compliance and Consulting – Advising businesses on regulatory issues
A lawyer has the education necessary to understand the law, but they’re not necessarily legally authorized to represent clients in a courtroom or file claims on another’s behalf. That role is reserved for attorneys.
What Is an Attorney?
To better understand the differences between attorney definition vs. lawyer definition, you should know what an attorney does.
An attorney, or attorney at law, is a lawyer who has passed the state bar exam and is licensed to practice law in that area. In Arizona, an attorney must pass the Arizona Bar Examination and be admitted to the State Bar of Arizona.
Attorneys can hold all the responsibilities listed above, and are also legally permitted to:
- Represent clients in court
- File legal claims and legal documents
- Negotiate settlements
- Offer legal counsel and advice
- Draft binding legal agreements
Basically, all attorneys are lawyers, but not all lawyers are attorneys. If you’re seeking representation or legal advice in Arizona, you’ll want to ensure you reach out to a licensed attorney. This is especially important if your matter involves court appearances or official filings.
Key Differences at a Glance
To make the difference between lawyer and attorney even clearer, here’s a simple comparison based on the professional’s qualification or role.
Lawyer vs. Attorney: What’s the Difference?
| Requirement / Ability | Lawyer | Attorney |
| Law degree (JD or equivalent) | ✅ | ✅ |
| Bar license | ❌ | ✅ |
| Can represent clients in court | ❌ | ✅ |
| Can provide legal advice | ⚠️ Limited, non-binding | ✅ Legally binding |
| Can offer general legal knowledge | ✅ | ✅ |
| Can draft legal documents for others | ❌ | ✅ |
| Can appear on behalf of a client in court | ❌ | ✅ |
What About in Arizona?
In Arizona, as is the case in most states, the right to practice law is tightly regulated. Attorneys need to meet strict educational, ethical, and licensing standards set by the State Bar of Arizona. According to the State Bar of Arizona (State Bar of Arizona, 2025), the state’s Bar currently has about 18,500 licensed, active attorneys. Comparatively, the American Bar Association (American Bar Association, 2025) reported over 1.3 million lawyers and attorneys in the United States.
Hiring someone who is only a lawyer and not a licensed attorney can put you at risk if you need formal legal representation. Unauthorized practice of law is a serious concern that can lead to invalid legal documents, delays in procedure, and even sanctions.
When you’re considering what is a lawyer vs. attorney in Arizona, remember that a lawyer may understand the law, but they can’t represent you in court unless they’re licensed. An attorney can legally advocate for you in and out of court.
Common Scenarios When Choosing Between a Lawyer vs. Attorney
Some examples that can further help you break down the difference between a lawyer vs. attorney when it comes to your legal needs include:
- Drafting a will. You need someone to ensure your documents are legally sound so they hold up when it really matters. Only an attorney can guarantee that level of legal authority in Arizona.
- A custody case. Representation requires a licensed attorney. A lawyer who hasn’t passed the bar exam can’t appear on your behalf.
- Help understanding a contract. A lawyer may be able to explain basic terms in the contract. However, only an attorney can advise you on how signing could impact your legal rights.
- You’re a business owner. An attorney can draft and review contracts and advise you on liability issues. They can also represent you in court if necessary. A non-licensed lawyer can’t offer these services.
- Facing criminal charges. If you’re charged with a misdemeanor or felony in Arizona, you need an attorney to represent you. A licensed attorney can negotiate plea deals, file motions, and defend you in court.
- Mediation or legal advice without going to court. If you simply want help navigating the law but don’t need representation in the courtroom, a law school graduate, or lawyer, may provide general legal information. However, only a licensed attorney is legally allowed to offer tailored advice or binding agreements.
In any situation involving enforceable rights, court filings, or legal representation in Arizona, choosing a licensed attorney is imperative.
Does It Matter Which One You Hire?
Which legal professional you hire absolutely matters. If you’re filing for divorce, navigating a tough custody dispute, or facing criminal charges, the person standing beside you in court must have a license to represent you. The difference between a lawyer and attorney in these circumstances can directly impact your case.
Only an attorney can appear in court on your behalf in Arizona. A lawyer who hasn’t passed the bar exam and obtained a license can’t legally argue a case or negotiate with the court. Additionally, only a licensed attorney can offer legal advice to clients. An unlicensed individual may have legal knowledge, but offering legal counsel without a license is considered unauthorized practice.
Attorneys licensed in Arizona are bound by the Rules of Professional Conduct set by the State Bar of Arizona. This ensures professionals meet ethical standards, serve client interests, and maintain legal confidentiality.
At The Valley Law Group, we want to reassure you that every legal professional on our team is a licensed attorney. Whether you’re seeking help with a divorce, a criminal defense case, or a personal injury matter, you can expect to work with a qualified legal professional.
Lawyer Vs Attorney FAQs
Need Legal Help in Arizona?
If you’re dealing with a legal issue, you need a legal professional qualified to handle your case. At The Valley Law Group, all of our attorneys are licensed by the State Bar of Arizona. We hold years of experience and bring sincere dedication to every case. Our clients can trust us to guide them through their legal journey with professionalism, empathy, and a commitment to a successful outcome.
Types of Cases We Handle
Our team handles many facets of law, including:
- Family Law – Family matters can be emotional and complicated. Our firm provides compassionate, strategic representation in a wide range of family law issues. We handle a variety of family law matters, including divorce, child custody, spousal support, child support, appeals, marital agreements, orders of protection, and juvenile law.
- Criminal Defense – When your future and freedom are on the line, you need experienced legal defense on your side. Our criminal defense team has extensive experience representing clients charged with a wide range of offenses. This includes DUI and vehicular crimes, drug crimes, assault and violent crimes, theft, fraud, white-collar crimes, property crimes, sex crimes, domestic violence, and weapons charges. We compile robust defenses and advocate for reduced or dismissed charges wherever possible.
- Personal Injury – If you’ve been injured because of another’s negligence, our personal injury attorneys are ready to help you pursue full and fair compensation. We represent clients in many areas of personal injury, including auto accidents, premises liability, dog bite injury, catastrophic injury, workplace injury, and product liability.
Contact The Valley Law Group Today
When you’re ready to seek legal help, remember the importance of legal authority. Knowing the difference between a lawyer and attorney is key. Choose the right advocate who is qualified, authorized, and ready to fight for your case.
Contact The Valley Law Group today to schedule a free legal consultation. We’re ready to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
Sources:
- State Bar of Arizona. (n.d.). About the organization. Retrieved March 31, 2025, from https://www.azbar.org/about-us/about-the-organization
- American Bar Association. (2023). ABA Profile of the Legal Profession: Demographics. Retrieved March 31, 2025, from https://www.americanbar.org/news/profile-legal-profession/demographics
Ryan Reppucci, Founder/Director of Legal Operations of The Valley Law Group, is recognized as one of Phoenix’s leading family law attorneys. After graduating from Arizona State with the highest honors and inclusion in America’s most prestigious student honor societies, Ryan attended the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law. His career as a law student was decorated with numerous awards, including the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law Book Award, nomination for membership in Who’s Who Among Students in American Colleges and Universities, as well as Moot Court.