What’s the Difference Between a Lawyer and an Attorney?
At Applebaum Accident & Injury Law, we understand how overwhelming the legal system can feel—especially after an accident. You’re trying to recover physically and emotionally while navigating unfamiliar legal terms. One question we hear often is: “What’s the difference between a lawyer and an attorney?”
Let’s clear that up.
Lawyer vs. Attorney: Is There a Real Difference?
Many people use the terms interchangeably—and in most everyday situations, that’s perfectly fine. But technically, there is a slight distinction:
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A lawyer is someone who has completed law school and earned a law degree.
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An attorney is a lawyer who is licensed to practice law in court and can represent clients in legal proceedings.
So, all attorneys are lawyers, but not all lawyers actively represent clients in court.
When You Might Work With a Lawyer
A lawyer can provide guidance, draft documents, and help you understand your rights. For example, you may hire a lawyer if you need help:
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Preparing a will or trust
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Setting up a business
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Filing taxes or resolving tax issues
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Applying for a visa or green card
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Drafting a prenuptial agreement
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Protecting your intellectual property
These professionals are educated in the law—but not all of them argue cases in front of judges or juries.
When You Need an Attorney
If your legal matter involves a dispute, injury, or court proceedings, you need an attorney—someone who can stand up for you in a courtroom and fight to protect your rights.
You should turn to an attorney if:
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You’re pursuing compensation after a car accident
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You’re involved in a lawsuit or going to trial
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You need to negotiate with an insurance company
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You’re facing a divorce or custody battle
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You’re appealing a decision or judgment
At Applebaum Accident & Injury Law, our legal team doesn’t just give advice—we take action. We represent real people in real legal battles every day.
So… Which One Should You Call?
If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence—call an attorney.
Personal injury law is complex. Insurance companies are focused on minimizing their payouts, not helping you heal. That’s why you need a legal advocate who will push back—someone who understands both negotiation and litigation.
Our attorneys at Applebaum Accident & Injury Law have the knowledge, courtroom experience, and relentless drive to pursue the maximum compensation for your injuries, pain, and losses.
What We Can Do for You
When you hire our firm, you’re hiring a team that will:
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Investigate the accident and determine who’s legally responsible
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Identify all insurance policies and potential sources of compensation
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Document your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and long-term effects
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Build a powerful demand package to send to the insurance company
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Negotiate fiercely to recover the settlement you deserve
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File a lawsuit if necessary and represent you in court
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Handle all communication and deadlines, so you can focus on healing
From the moment you call us, our goal is simple: protect your rights and get you the compensation you need to move forward.
What About Titles Like “Counsel,” “Esquire,” or “Advocate”?
You may hear other terms—like “counsel,” “esquire,” or “advocate.” These are often just variations based on region or context. For example:
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Esquire (Esq.) indicates someone has passed the bar and is licensed
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Counsel often refers to in-house or advisory legal roles
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Advocate is sometimes used interchangeably with attorney
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In the UK, solicitors and barristers describe different types of legal professionals
But here in the U.S.—especially if you’re injured in a Florida accident—you want a licensed personal injury attorney who has real experience handling claims like yours.
Don’t Worry About Terminology—Worry About Results
What really matters is whether your legal representative is experienced, trustworthy, and ready to fight for you. Whether you call us lawyers or attorneys, we’re focused on one thing: getting justice for accident victims.
If you’ve been injured in a car crash, slip and fall, or other accident—don’t get caught up in legal labels. Get answers.
Contact Applebaum Accident & Injury Law Today
Your consultation is free. You pay nothing unless we win for you. Let our team handle the legal stress while you focus on recovery.
📞 Call Applebaum Accident & Injury Law at (855) Call-Paul
💻 Or fill out our free consultation form today.
