What Is an Attorney at Law (or Attorney-at-Law)?

Attorney at law, or better known as attorney-at-law, is the legal term for a lawyer who is licensed to practice law in one or more jurisdictions within the United States. This term is commonly used to describe a lawyer in private practice, that specializes in representing clients in both criminal and civil matters before courts and other judicial authorities.

What Does an Attorney Do in Private Practice?

An attorney-at-law in private practice generally offers legal services such as drafting legal documents, providing legal advice, negotiating, appearing in court, and representing clients in various court proceedings. For example, an attorney may draft a contract, represent a client in a court hearing, or provide legal advice to a business. In addition to legal representation, an attorney-at-law may oversee the execution of legal documents, provide consultation on legal and business matters, and may even assist in the formation and/or dissolution of a business.

What Is the Difference Between an Attorney and a Lawyer?

An attorney is a lawyer who has been given the authority by the court to act on behalf of another person or company. A lawyer is a professional who is qualified and licensed to practice law, while an attorney is merely a lawyer who has been admitted to a bar and been given the authority by the court to represent clients in legal matters. Lawyers, on the other hand, are individuals who have either taken a law degree or have earned a qualification in legal studies.

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Related Legal Concepts

Understanding attorney at law connects to several specialized legal roles and practice areas. A defense attorney represents clients facing criminal charges, while a prosecuting attorney or District Attorney handles cases on behalf of the state. Attorneys may also hold special designations like general power of attorney or special power of attorney, allowing them to act on behalf of clients in specific matters. The distinction between substantive law and procedural law also affects how attorneys practice in different jurisdictions.

The Bottom Line

An attorney at law is simply a licensed lawyer who has been admitted to practice in a specific jurisdiction and can represent clients in legal matters. This formal designation distinguishes practicing attorneys from those who have legal education but may not be actively representing clients in court or providing legal services. For guidance specific to your situation, always consult a qualified, licensed attorney.