Advocate and Attorney

A legal advocate specialises in courtroom representation, while an attorney provides legal advice, represents clients, and handles various legal matters.

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A legal advocate and attorney are both branches of the practising legal profession, each serving distinct functions. An attorney is typically the first point of contact when seeking legal advice, handling various areas of law such as civil and criminal cases, business contracts, and estate planning. Attorneys give legal advice, consult clients on their rights and obligations, and represent them in legal matters. Advocates, on the other hand, specialise in courtroom representation and litigation, often acting on behalf of clients referred by attorneys. They provide legal opinions, handle criminal and civil cases, and appear in court to present and argue cases on behalf of clients.

Tasks performed by advocates and attorneys include:

• Providing legal advice and consulting clients on their rights and obligations.
• Representing clients in civil and criminal cases in court.
• Assisting clients with contracts, leases, wills, and legal documents.
• Specialising in areas such as corporate law, property transactions, and taxation.
• Drafting legal documents and preparing cases for court hearings.
• Conducting cross-examinations and presenting evidence in favour of clients during trials.

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Personal Requirements

• integrity and honesty
• ability to inspire confidence
• quick thinking and analytical
• well spoken and authoritative

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Employment

• private practice
• businesses, companies and institutions, as managers and directors
• legal advisers for government departments, businesses and companies
• colleges and universities, as lecturers
• politics

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Getting Started

•  try to arrange to speak to an advocate or an attorney to obtain first-hand information
•  try to obtain vacation work in advocates’ or attorneys' offices 
• attend open court sessions
•  join a debating society and take part in discussions

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Programmes

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Bursaries

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Related Occupations

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