What is the difference between a lawyer and a solicitor? In England and Wales, the word lawyer is a broader term that encompasses both solicitors and barristers.
Solicitors
A solicitor is the initial contact person for an individual or organisation that seeks legal advice or representation.
He or she will offer advice and support across a range of legal issues, such as family law, conveyancing, wills and probate or commercial work. However, these issues may or may not involve any litigation within the court system.
Barristers
The barrister specialises in litigation, acting as an advocate and offering advice on action within the courts. He or she will also represent the client in court. A solicitor usually liaises between the barrister and the client, so barristers do not usually have direct contact with clients. QC’s – Queens Councils – are senior barristers and make up around 10% the bar in practice. The Lord Chancellor advises the Queen on who she should appoint as a new QC, and this is based on experience and perceived ability, rather than any new examinations.
We hope this advice proves useful!
Other pages of the site:
Employment Solicitors – companies dealing with employment related issues.
Education Law – firms and free advice for education matters.
Insolvency Solicitors – bankruptcy or insolvency proceedings.
Conveyancing Solicitors – domestic or commercial property conveyancing.
Recruitment services are offered by our featured legal employment agencies in the UK.