Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers | March 24, 2025 | Criminal Defense

Difference Between Lawyer and Attorney

In Fort Worth, TX, many people use “lawyer” and “attorney” as if they mean the same thing. However, these terms are different. Knowing the difference is key when selecting legal help.

If you are seeking legal advice, read this article to learn whether you need a lawyer or an attorney.

The Technical Difference

The main difference is in licensure and practice. A lawyer has finished law school and earned a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree. But this degree alone does not allow them to practice law or represent clients in court.

An attorney is a lawyer who has passed the state bar exam and can practice law in a specific area. Attorneys have taken the extra step to get licensed, which allows them to represent clients, give legal advice, and appear in court.

Simply put, all attorneys are lawyers, but not all lawyers are attorneys. Some law school graduates go into academia, business, or government. They use their legal knowledge but do not practice law. These people can call themselves lawyers but are not attorneys.

In Texas, the State Bar of Texas requires attorneys to pass difficult tests and meet ethical standards to get their licenses. This includes passing the bar exam and a character and fitness evaluation to ensure they uphold ethical standards in their work.

Historical Context

The difference between “lawyer” and “attorney” has historical roots. The term “attorney” comes from “attorney-at-law.” This originally meant someone authorized to act for another in legal matters. It emphasizes the role of representation. Attorneys advocate for clients in court, negotiate deals, and give legal advice.

“Lawyer” has a broader meaning. It comes from Middle English and refers to anyone knowledgeable about the law. Some lawyers have worked as scholars, advisors, or consultants without representing clients in court. In some legal systems, they helped draft laws or provide legal opinions but did not argue cases before judges.

Over time, the terms have changed. In the United States, they are often used interchangeably. However, the distinction is still important when discussing qualifications, licensing, and the right to practice law in court.

In Modern Practice

Today, in the United States, especially in Texas, the terms “lawyer” and “attorney” are mostly the same. Most legal professionals who pass the bar use both titles. The public usually doesn’t see a difference. When someone says, “I need to talk to my lawyer,” they mean a licensed attorney who can represent them. Though the technical distinction exists, people often use the terms interchangeably.

What really matters is specialization and certification. Board certification in legal practice shows excellence beyond just having a law license. Attorneys who earn this certification must meet strict requirements. These include extensive courtroom experience, specialized continuing education, and passing a tough exam in their field.

Only a small percentage of attorneys get board certification. This makes it a valuable credential for clients looking for top-notch legal help. It shows advanced expertise, a strong commitment to the profession, and mastery in a specific area of law. It can be an important factor for clients when choosing an attorney with proven skill and experience.

Expertise Matters More Than Terminology

When facing criminal charges, the type of legal expert you choose matters more than their title. Whether they call themselves a lawyer or an attorney doesn’t change their ability to defend you. Criminal defense needs specialized knowledge of constitutional rights, evidence rules, procedures, negotiation tactics, and trial skills.

Board certification shows a strong level of skill in these areas. It reflects advanced knowledge and experience in criminal law. When picking a legal representative, consider their expertise in criminal law, experience with similar cases, board certification, knowledge of local courts, and communication style.

Why This Matters in Criminal Defense

When facing criminal charges, the stakes are high. Having an experienced attorney is crucial. Board-certified attorneys show advanced knowledge in criminal law. This means they handle serious cases with greater skill. At Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers, our attorneys Pam Boggess and Cody Cofer are both board-certified in criminal law, a distinction earned by only a small percentage of lawyers in Texas.

If you are facing criminal charges in Fort Worth or the surrounding areas, understanding the difference between a lawyer and an attorney is just the beginning. Choosing a legal representative with specialized expertise, proven experience, and board certification can make all the difference in your defense.

For more information, please contact the criminal defense law firm of Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers for a consultation. Give us a call at (682) 777-3336 or visit our convenient location:

We serve the surrounding areas of Tarrant County and Fort Worth, TX.

Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers
604 E 4th St Ste 101
Fort Worth, TX 76102