Many students who are in their schools or have passed their class 12th, wish to become a lawyer or an Advocate. The reason behind why “or” is used in between an Advocate or lawyer is because of the general notion of laymen that both are the same. People often neglect to research the difference in being a lawyer or an Advocate. In this Article, we will uncover the difference between a Lawyer and an Advocate. Also, how students in different stages of life can become Advocate also known as the officers of the Court.

Types of Law Degrees in India

There are 2 types of degrees that are authorized by the Bar council of India. The First is a 3 year LL.B. that a student can pursue if he chooses to become a lawyer/Advocate in India after his graduation (U.G).

The Second type is a dual Degree wherein, one (U.G) Degree along with LL.B. is attached and the term of the entire course is 5 years. The most prominent of these dual Degrees are B.A., LL.B. or BB.A., LL.B. This 5 year integrated plan was introduced later to save one year of students who make their mind to become a lawyer early in life after passing their class 12th.

Difference between a Lawyer and an Advocate

A person who holds a Law Degree from a college recognized by the Bar Council of India is known as a Lawyer, whereas an Advocate is a person who after completing his law school or after becoming a lawyer, gives the All-India Bar Examination and gets his Permanent Certificate of Practice from the Bar council. The lawyer who holds a valid Certificate of Practice is considered an Advocate. Only an Advocate can represent other people in any Court in India.

Work of a lawyer and Advocate?

In the usual course, Lawyers who do not go for the AIBE and become an Advocate, work with law Firms as legal Assistants or work as in House Counsels. They work in places where they do not need to visit Courts. They majorly work on advising or compliance. Some Examples are General Corporate, Trademark search and Advisory, Contract Drafting, Mergers and Acquisitions etc. In contrast, Advocates generally work in practice areas where regular Court visits are essential. The work of a Lawyer for instance may be to Draft a Contract but the work of Litigating Advocates starts when there is a breach in those Contracts and those agreements are to be either enforced by way of suing the party at fault or claiming damages. 

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