When we start looking for professional legal assistance, we often face a dilemma: turn to a legal advisor or an attorney? Both a legal advisor and an attorney are professional lawyers. However, some differences can help us make the right choice. In this article, we will look at who a legal advisor is, what a lawyer does, and how a legal advisor differs from a lawyer. It is important to remember that both professions are key in the legal system. The choice between them depends on the specific needs of the client. One thing is indisputable – both professions require deep knowledge and experience of the law.
Lawyer and other legal professions
The term , “lawyer” colloquially refers to any person who has graduated from law school. Unlike a legal advisor or lawyer, a lawyer does not necessarily have to have additional qualifications or powers to represent clients in court. Thus, it is a broader term that does not indicate a specific specialization or additional competence. Nevertheless, many law graduates do not feel themselves to be lawyers, as they do not practice a profession in line with their education. Thus, a person who practices a legal profession should be considered a lawyer.
Who is a legal advisor?
A legal advisor is a lawyer who has met the criteria set by the law, such as:
- graduation from higher legal studies and obtaining a master’s degree in Poland,
- full legal capacity,
- impeccable character,
- completion of the legal advisor’s application and passing the legal advisor’s exam.
Once the above conditions are met, a legal advisor obtains registration with the District Chamber of Legal Advisors and is authorized to practice his profession. His activities are regulated by relevant codes and regulations and are subject to control by the authorities of the Chamber of Legal Advisors. Legal advisors often specialize in specific areas of law, which allows for more targeted advice.
Legal basis: the Law of July 6, 1982 on legal advisers.
What does a legal advisor do?
A legal advisor deals with:
- providing legal advice,
- Representing clients before courts and administrative bodies,
- Preparation of contracts and pleadings,
- providing legal advice to businesses.
Legal counsel for individuals can also conduct negotiations on behalf of the client, interpret legal regulations, and act as a mediator. It is also possible to work with a legal advisor on a long-term basis, for example, as part of ongoing advice to companies.
Who is an advocate?
Like a legal advisor, an advocate must meet a number of criteria:
- graduation from law school,
- passing the bar exam,
- impeccable character,
- full legal capacity.
Also an advocate, after being registered with the appropriate chamber, is entitled to practice law. Like a counselor, an attorney can specialize in different areas of law. Attorneys are also often involved in pro bono activities, offering free legal services to those who are unable to afford them.
Legal basis: the Law of May 26, 1982 – the Law on the Bar.
What does an attorney do?
The scope of a lawyer’s activities is very similar to what a legal counselor does:
- represents clients in courts,
- gives legal advice,
- prepares and reviews contracts,
- advises on criminal, civil, and business matters.
A lawyer can also represent a client in difficult and complex cases that require in-depth analysis and a strategic approach. He is also authorized to appear before various instances, including appellate courts.
Legal advisor vs. attorney – what is the difference?
At first glance, the differences between the two professions are minor. What is the difference between a counselor and an attorney? The most significant difference is the form of employment:
A legal counsel for companies can be employed under an employment contract.
A lawyer does not have this option and usually works on his own or within a law firm.
Previously, legal advisors did not have the right to represent clients in criminal cases, but this difference has been eliminated and now the powers of both professions are very similar. This is important because it allows more freedom to choose the lawyer who best fits a particular situation.
Legal advisor vs. attorney – how to make a choice?
Choosing between a legal advisor and an attorney can be difficult, as both professions offer a similar range of services. A key aspect that can help in the decision is the individual needs of the client, the specialization of the lawyer, and the form of employment. The final choice can also be facilitated by consulting various specialists and by considering the amount of legal fees.
Summary: what is the difference between a legal advisor and an attorney?
Legal advisor Poznań and attorney are legal professions that offer a similar range of services. The main difference is the possibility of hiring a legal advisor under an employment contract. The choice between the two should be made based on individual needs, such as the lawyer’s specialization or preferred form of cooperation. In the end, the most important thing is the knowledge, experience, and skills of the lawyer you will bet on.