Q: what is the difference between an attorney and a lawyer
A: In the United States, there is no longer a real world distinction between an attorney and a lawyer. The words are historically distinct with roots in English and French. Historically, an attorney was a licensed member of the legal profession, who can represent folks in court. While a lawyer could be someone with legal training capable of rendering legal advice, but not necessarily licensed to argue in court. The American system no longer makes such a distinction and the words are used interchangeably as lawyers are now also licensed members of the profession. In England, a similar distinction still exists between barristers and solicitors. Barristers argue cases in court. Solicitors offer out of court legal advice on various matters, but do not argue before the courts.
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