Quick Summary
Knowing the difference between lawyer and advocate is essential if you are dealing with the Indian legal system or considering a legal career. The terms are often used interchangeably, but have different meanings and responsibilities. “Lawyer” is a general term to describe anyone who has obtained a law degree and is qualified to provide legal advice and/or services. An advocate is a specific type of lawyer admitted to the Bar Council of India and competent to appear before and represent clients at court.
In 2025, as the body of law continues to develop and specialization expands, you will want to be aware of the difference for clients selecting a legal professional and to help individuals studying law identify their career planning. Let’s examine the unique roles, qualifications, and career paths of lawyers and advocates in India.
A lawyer has finished a law degree, known as an LLB. However, having a law degree does not mean a lawyer can represent clients in court. A lawyer must pass the All-India Bar Examination (AIBE) after completing their law degree.
Once a lawyer passes the AIBE, they can become an advocate. Advocates are lawyers who are allowed to represent clients in court. Lawyers are trained to understand the country’s laws and can advise on legal rights and responsibilities. They also help in drafting legal documents for people and businesses.
Some lawyers work in companies instead of courts. When they work in the corporate sector, they must give up their Bar Council license and cannot represent clients in court. However, if they return to practicing law in court later, they can reactivate their Bar Council license and become advocates again.
An advocate is a person who is officially registered with the State Bar Council. Advocates can speak for their clients in court, which sets them apart from other lawyers. A lawyer becomes an advocate by joining a Bar Council or association.
To become an advocate, a person needs a law degree (LLB) from a recognized university or college and a license from the Bar Council in India. After passing the Bar Council of India exam, an advocate gets this license and can start working in courts.
Advocates are experts in law who are trained to represent clients in court. They can be individuals or law firms that represent clients in legal matters.
Here are some differences to clarify the nuances of lawyer vs advocate:
| Aspect | Lawyer | Advocate |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Educational Qualification | LLB Degree (3 years) | LLB Degree (3 years) + Bar Exam (AIBE) |
| 2. Job | It may not always appear in court. | Argues a case on behalf of a client in court or before a government agency. |
| 3. Court Appearance | A general term for anyone with a law degree. | Regularly appears in court to argue cases. |
| 4. Scope of Work | Can work in various legal fields (e.g., corporate, family, environmental law) | Primarily focused on litigation and court appearances |
| 5. Courtroom Rights | May or may not have the right to speak in court, depending on jurisdiction | Has the right to speak and represent clients in court |
| 6. Client Interaction | Works closely with clients to give legal advice and prepare documents. | Represents and speaks on behalf of clients in court. |
| 7. Legal Representation | Can represent clients in lower courts and administrative matters. | Represents clients in higher courts (often requires special enrollment). |
| 8. Professional Title | General term for anyone with a law degree. | Specific term for those who practice in court. |
| 9. Training | Legal education and training in various aspects of law. | Specialized training in courtroom procedures and advocacy. |
| 10. Licensing | Requires a law degree and a license to practice law. | Requires a law degree, passing the bar exam, and enrollment as an advocate. |
| 11. Salary Potential | Generally Higher (₹1.56 lakh – ₹18 lakh annually) | Generally Lower (₹1.1 lakh – ₹9 lakh+ annually) |
Both lawyers and advocates play crucial roles in our legal system. They work together to ensure justice is served and people’s rights are protected. Here’s why both advocates vs lawyers are essential:
If you’re interested in a career in law, here’s a general path to becoming a lawyer or advocate in India involves four main steps:
Now that you know the difference between a lawyer and an advocate, remember that the exact requirements may vary depending on where you live, so it’s essential to research the specific steps for your location.
Check out our article on How to Become a Lawyer?
Most lawyers and advocates specialize in a specific area of law during law school or after graduation. Legal professionals can offer advice and representation across various specializations, including:
A lawyer has qualified through legal education and training, but is not qualified to represent clients in court. A lawyer must meet specific requirements to become an advocate.
The Bar Council of India examination, commonly known as the BCI examination, is required of candidates who have received a legal degree but are not registered advocates. The lawyer must take the exam to be added to the BAR council list. The candidate will then receive a professional license from the bar council to practice law in a courtroom, making the candidate an advocate.
You may choose either of these two specialties based on your skills. An advocate is a mid-level or senior role, while a lawyer is an entry-level specialist. If you are a recent graduate of an LLB degree, look for a lawyer’s job in a legal environment.
You may have to pass an exam to get your practice license. An advocate is a more seasoned professional who represents a client or organization in legal matters. Advocates generally have a higher salary and perks than lawyers.
Throughout history, many lawyers and advocates have made significant contributions to society. Here are a few examples:
These individuals showcase lawyers and advocates in the world.
The difference between a lawyer and an advocate will influence career possibilities (and how clients are represented) within the legal field in India. While all advocates are lawyers, not every lawyer is an advocate, as only those registered with the Bar Council are permitted to argue a case in court. A lawyer works in an advisory capacity, within a corporation, or at a think tank. An advocate works in the legal context of a courtroom. Over the next few years, we will see increased specialization in legal services in India, beginning in 2025.
Understanding these lawyer and advocate difference will help you make an informed decision, as a client seeking legal assistance or as a prospective advocate or lawyer planning your future in law. Appreciating these distinctions will further help you navigate the legal landscape and make a choice applicable to your legal career needs. Be sure to stay prepared and informed while navigating the changing landscape of the law in India.
If you’re considering a career in law or exploring related fields, here are some valuable resources to help guide your journey:
After understanding the advocate and a lawyer, these resources help you to cover a range of topics from specific career paths in law to broader information about humanities and arts streams. They can help you make informed decisions about your education and career goals.
For more career advice and guidance, visit Chegg India Career Advice.
Not precisely. A lawyer is anyone with a law degree, whereas an advocate is a lawyer licensed to represent clients in court.
For example, every advocate is a lawyer; however, not all lawyers actively advocate cases in court.
Tip: If you need someone in court, hire an advocate.
Corporate lawyers tend to have higher salaries at the beginning of their careers, whereas experienced advocates earn higher wages in the latter part.
Example: A corporate lawyer may earn ₹10–15 LPA at the entry level; a junior advocate may earn less at the entry level but make some big money near the end of their career.
Tip: Choose whichever suits your personal goals; both can have great potential.
KK Venugopal is a highly respected senior advocate and constitutional law expert.
Harish Salve is known for high-profile litigation and international work.
A lawyer can give legal advice and write documents, while an advocate can represent clients in court.
Example: A lawyer may prepare a will. An advocate can argue a court case.
Tip: Check if you need court representation; only advocates can provide that service.
To become an advocate, you should get a law degree (LLB) after 12th grade. You can choose a 3-year LLB after graduation or a 5-year integrated LLB right after high school. After finishing the LLB, register with the Bar Council to practice in court.
Example: Priya completed a 5-year integrated LLB, registered with the Bar Council, and now works as an advocate.
Tip: Concentrate on Constitutional Law, Criminal Law, and Civil Procedure. These are important for practicing in court.
No, a law student or LLB student is not a lawyer yet. They become a lawyer only after finishing their law degree (LLB). Until then, they are considered a law student.
Example: Ravi is studying for his LLB, so he is a law student, not a lawyer. After he passes his LLB, he can practice law and be called a lawyer.
Tip: Completing the degree is essential; you can only give legal advice or draft legal documents. You need to enroll as an advocate to represent someone in court.
Yes, a lawyer can become an advocate after joining the Bar Council of India. Once they enter, they can legally represent clients in court.
Example: Ravi completed his LLB and worked as a lawyer. After joining the Bar Council, he began appearing in court as an advocate.
Tip: Joining the Bar Council is necessary; without it, a lawyer cannot argue in court.
No, not all countries make a strict distinction. In some countries, like India, there is a clear difference. A lawyer gives legal advice, while an advocate represents clients in court. The terms may overlap in countries like the USA or the UK, and any licensed lawyer can appear in court.
Example: In India, Ravi needs Bar Council enrollment to be an advocate. In the USA, a licensed attorney can directly appear in court without a separate title.
Tip: Always check the local legal system. Titles, roles, and permissions vary by country.
A barrister is a type of lawyer in the UK and some other countries who specializes in advocacy in the courtroom and work that involves giving legal opinions.
For example, A barrister wears a wig and a robe and represents clients in higher courts in the UK.
Tip: The term in India is now seldom used, with “advocate” being the most common title.
No, not instantly. After LLB, you must pass the All India Bar Examination (AIBE) and register with your State Bar Council to legally use “Advocate”.
Example: After completing your LLB and passing AIBE, you can officially introduce yourself as an advocate and practice in court.
Tip: You should aim to pass AIBE immediately after your LLB to begin your legal practice without much delay.
Authored by, Gagandeep Khokhar
Career Guidance Expert
Gagandeep is a content writer and strategist focused on creating high-performing, SEO-driven content that bridges the gap between learners and institutions. He crafts compelling narratives across blogs, landing pages, and email campaigns to drive engagement and build trust.
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Chegg India does not ask for money to offer any opportunity with the company. We request you to be vigilant before sharing your personal and financial information with any third party. Beware of fraudulent activities claiming affiliation with our company and promising monetary rewards or benefits. Chegg India shall not be responsible for any losses resulting from such activities.
