What Is an Attorney?

The term “attorney” is used in a general sense that goes beyond a licensed legal professional. In most places, attorneys are not lawyers, but rather individuals who serve as an advocate for another party. You’ve probably heard of power of attorney, which gives someone the legal right to make decisions on another’s behalf. This person is known as an attorney in fact, and has the authority to act on behalf of the person who appointed them.
To become an attorney, you must earn a law degree and pass the bar exam. You can also work as an intern or extern, but you won’t be able to practice as a lawyer without a license. While you can work as an unlicensed attorney, you should know that you’ll be exposing yourself to criminal and legal charges. An unlicensed lawyer can also be sued for their professional mistakes. If you’re curious, here’s what you should know about the bar exam.
An attorney has attended law school and passed the bar exam in the state they wish to practice. They are allowed to practice law only after they pass the bar exam in their jurisdiction. After graduation, attorneys may work as consultants for companies or government agencies, or they may decide to take on other jobs to gain more experience. If you’re considering a career as an attorney, make sure to read about the many opportunities that are available in this field.