If you’re handling a personal injury case, you may come across terms like "Esquire," "lawyer," and "attorney," which can create confusion. These terms are often used interchangeably, making it difficult to know who is qualified to assist with your case.
Don’t worry! We’re here to clear things up and help you understand the differences between these terms. Continue reading to find out the difference between an attorney and a lawyer.
Are Attorneys and Lawyers the Same?
Traditionally, a "lawyer" is someone who has graduated from law school but has not yet passed the bar exam or obtained the necessary licenses to practice law. An "attorney," on the other hand, is a fully licensed legal professional who has completed law school, passed the bar exam, and is authorized to represent clients.
In Florida, however, there’s no real difference between the two terms. The key factor when reaching out to a law firm is whether the professional is licensed to practice law in Florida, not the title they hold.
Requirements for Attorneys in Florida
To practice law in Florida, an attorney must be a member of the Florida Bar Association. Once they’re admitted, they are qualified to offer a range of legal services, including personal injury representation.
To become a member of the Florida Bar, attorneys must meet the following requirements:
- Graduate from an accredited law school
- Pass the Florida Bar exam
- Pass an exam on professional responsibility
Only those licensed by the Florida Bar can practice law in the state. For instance, a lawyer licensed in another state, like Minnesota, cannot represent clients in Florida unless they pass the Florida Bar exam.
Unlicensed individuals cannot give legal advice, file legal documents, or represent clients in court. Engaging in such activities is considered unauthorized practice of law and can result in criminal charges.
Exceptions for Out-of-State Attorneys
Each state has its own regulations, but there are a few exceptions that allow out-of-state attorneys to practice in Florida. These include:
- Out-of-state attorneys can request permission from the court to represent a client in a specific case (though approval is not guaranteed).
- Attorneys married to active-duty military personnel can practice law in Florida for up to five years without taking the Florida Bar exam.
- In-house counsel (attorneys working for companies) may provide limited legal services in Florida.
- Attorneys licensed in other countries can offer legal advice related to their home country's laws.
What Can Lawyers Do Without a License?
Some individuals graduate from law school but choose not to take the bar exam. These individuals, called "Juris Doctors" (J.D.s), have legal education but aren’t licensed to practice law independently.
Although they can’t represent clients in court, take depositions, or sign legal documents, they can still help licensed attorneys with tasks such as:
- Conducting legal research
- Drafting legal documents
- Preparing for hearings and trials
How to Verify an Attorney’s Credentials
If you're thinking of hiring an attorney, it's important to verify their credentials. Thankfully, this is easy to do.
Simply visit the Florida Bar Association’s website and search for the attorney’s name. This will help you confirm whether they are licensed to practice law in Florida, if they’re in good standing, and if they’ve faced any disciplinary actions.
Can a Florida Attorney Represent You in Another State?
Suppose you're injured while traveling in another state, such as Alabama, and want your Florida attorney to represent you. If your Florida attorney isn’t licensed in Alabama, they may still be able to help by applying for "pro hac vice" status. This allows them to temporarily practice law in the state for your case.
When working on a pro hac vice basis, the attorney must partner with a local attorney licensed in that state. Be mindful that this can lead to higher legal fees, so weigh the potential costs before proceeding.
How to Choose the Right Attorney
Confirming that an attorney is licensed is only the first step. Here are some additional tips to help you select the best attorney for your case:
- Read online reviews and testimonials from clients to evaluate the attorney’s reputation.
- Look for news stories or other information about the attorney or their firm.
- Visit the attorney’s website to learn about their experience, case results, and client feedback.
Many attorneys offer free consultations, so take advantage of this opportunity to meet with them and discuss your case before making a decision.
Looking for a Licensed Attorney?
Now that you know the difference between a lawyer and an attorney, you’re in a better position to find the right legal professional for your case. If you’re looking for a personal injury attorney in Florida, consider the Law Offices of RITE.
We’re a fully licensed law firm with decades of experience and a proven track record of success. Our team is dedicated to helping you get the justice and compensation you deserve.
We offer free consultations to evaluate your case. Contact us today at (904) 500-RITE (7483) or email [email protected] for the legal support you need.
