Difference Between Lawyer and Advocate in India - Advocate vs Lawyer

Difference Between Lawyer and Advocate in India - Advocate vs Lawyer

Edited By Team Careers360 | Updated on Oct 06, 2023 12:29 PM IST | #L.L.B

“Lawyer” and “Advocate” are often used interchangeably in popular culture. However, there are some fundamental differences between a lawyer and an advocate. A lawyer is basically a person who has studied Law and is involved in the legal profession. But, an advocate is a slightly more specific term, used in the context of those lawyers who are authorized to represent a client in a court of law. Thus, it is right to say that all advocates are lawyers, but all lawyers may not be advocates. However, is that the only difference between an advocate and a lawyer? Read the article to know more about the lawyer vs advocate comparison.

This Story also Contains
  1. Who is a Lawyer?
  2. Who is an advocate?
  3. What is difference between lawyer and advocate
  4. Roles and Responsibilities
  5. Lawyer Vs Advocate: Salary Difference
  6. How to Become a Lawyer in India?
  7. How to become an advocate in India?
Difference Between Lawyer and Advocate in India - Advocate vs Lawyer
Difference Between Lawyer and Advocate in India - Advocate vs Lawyer

Who is a Lawyer?

A law graduate, involved in the legal profession such as those related to giving legal advice, consultation, assisting or any other law profession is called a lawyer. The term “Lawyer” is a very broad term and is used in the context of a legal professional including a barrister or an attorney.

Also Read | Types of law degrees

Who is an advocate?

In legal terms, an advocate is a lawyer who enters into a roll under the provisions of the Advocates Acts 1961. In simple terms, an advocate is a lawyer who is registered with any State Bar Council or Bar Council of India. The conduct of an advocate is governed by the rules of the Bar Council of India (BCI), the apex regulatory body for legal professionals.

What is difference between lawyer and advocate

There are several points to be looked at in the advocate vs lawyer comparison. Some of the points are given in the table below.

Difference Between Lawyer and Advocate

Lawyer

Advocate

A lawyer is any law graduate involved in a legal profession

Advocate represents their clients in the Court of Law

Lawyer can be used in the context of a legal advisor, attorney, solicitor, barrister or even a law professor

Advocates have specified role and duties. It is a more specific term

Lawyers may not be very experienced in the practising law

Advocates are experienced professionals and have cleared a standard Bar examination

Lawyers cannot represent clients in Court of Law, but they can give legal advice, assist their clients in legal matters, or work in the corporate sector as a law professional

Advocates have Certificate of Practice (CoP) issued by the apex regulator of the legal profession and legal education in India. The CoP enables advocates to practice law

Lawyers are not covered under Advocates Act

The conduct of advocates is governed by Advocates Act 1961

Roles and Responsibilities

Whether a person is a lawyer or an advocate, both are legal professionals and have several common roles and responsibilities which their job entails. Given below are a few things which advocates and lawyers do:

  • Provide legal counsel and representation to people, businesses, and governmental organisations.
  • Hold meetings and interact with their clients, coworkers, judges, and other case participants.
  • Analyse and research on legal issues.
  • For people and corporations, interpret laws, decisions, and regulations.
  • Prepare and file legal papers such lawsuits, appeals, wills, contracts, and deeds
ICFAI-LAW School BA-LLB / BBA-LLB Admissions 2025

Ranked 1 st among Top Law Schools of super Excellence in India - GHRDC | NAAC A+ Accredited | #36 by NIRF

Dr DY Patil University Law Admission 2025

Ranked #72 by NIRF | Accredited by NAAC with A grade

Lawyer Vs Advocate: Salary Difference

It must be noted that all advocates are lawyers but all lawyers are not advocates. So,being an advocate one gets an additional qualification to represent clients in addition to all the roles and responsibilities a lawyer can perform. So, becoming an advocate greatly increases the scope of earnings for a lawyer. However, the earnings will also depend on the the reputation of the advocate, type of clients being represented, and the type of cases at hand. On the other hand, a lawyer can find jobs in legal firms, and in the legal department of different organisations.

As per Ambition box data, the average salary of a lawyer in India ranges between Rs. 1-11 lakh p.a. with an average salary of Rs.4.8 lakh p.a. On the other hand the salary of an advocate in India ranges between Rs. 1.1 -9 lakh p.a. with an average salary of 4.9 lakh p.a.

How to Become a Lawyer in India?

To become a lawyer in India aspirants in India can complete a formal law degree and become lawyers. As per the “Rules of Legal Education” given by the Bar Council of India, there are two types of law courses leading to a bachelor's Degree in Law. These are;

LLB course - This course is popularly known as a 3-year LLB degree programme. Law aspirants can undertake this course only after completing graduation from a university recognized by the Bar Council of India.

Also Read | Types of Lawyers in India

Double-degree integrated LLB course

A double-degree integrated course is a combination of Bachelor’ degree in Law and any other Bachelors’ discipline. The degree programme will be of at least five years and students can pursue it right after completing Class 12. Some of the popular 5-year integrated LLB programmes are BA LLB, BBA LLB, BCom LLB and BSc LLB.

After completion of the programme, students are eligible to register themselves with state bar councils. Such law graduates are called lawyers.

Related: Online Law Courses & Certifications

How to become an advocate in India?

A law graduate becomes an advocate only when he/she is registered with the Bar Council of India (BCI). The council conducts an All India Bar Examination (AIBE) to set a standard for advocates. Law graduates who wish to become advocates are required to clear the AIBE exam and obtain a Certificate of Practice from the BCI. Generally, the AIBE exam is conducted twice a year and applications for it are accepted online from the official website of the council.

Those who clear the AIBE exam and have received the CoP from the council are eligible to represent their clients in a Court of Law. These lawyers are called Advocates.

Advocates uphold the interests of their clients and play a crucial role in the administration of justice. They are also bound by the rules of the Bar Council of India and accordingly, they are expected to adhere to the highest standards of probity and honour.
Also, check - Difference Between Judge and Magistrate

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who is a Lawyer?

Anyone who has completed their legal education and possess the Bachelor of Legislative Law (LLB) degree can be called as a lawyer

2. Who is called an advocate?

Any lawyer whose name has been entered in the roll prepared and maintained by the State Bar Council under section 17 of the Advocates Act, 1961.

3. Who is more powerful - Lawyer or Advocate ?

A lawyer does not have the authority to practise law or represent clients, only an advocate can do so.

4. Can a lawyer become an advocate?

Yes. A lawyer can become an advocate if they clear the All India Bar Examination conducted by the Bar Council of India and their name is entered in roll maintained by the State Bar Council under section 17 of the Advocates Act, 1961.

5. Is a LLB called an advocate?

While possessing an LLB degree is a prerequisite for becoming an advocate, it is not enough. To become an advocate the person’s name must be entered in the roll maintained by the State Bar Council and the person must also clear the All India Bar Examination conducted by the Bar Council of India.

6. Is there any difference between advocate and lawyer?

An advocate can represent clients in court, which a lawyer cannot.

7. Who is better lawyer or advocate?

Becoming an advocate is an additional qualification which a lawyer gets after clearing the AIBE exam. So, an advocate is always better than being only a lawyer.

8. Is LLB graduate a lawyer?

Yes. Anyone who has completed their legal education and obtained the Bachelor of Legislative Law (LLB) degree is a lawyer.

Articles

Certifications By Top Providers

The Psychology of Criminal Justice
Via The University of Queensland, Brisbane
Roadmap for Patent Creation
Via Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur
MPSE 001 India and World Politics Challenges and Opportunities in 21st Century
Via Indira Gandhi National Open University, New Delhi
Anthropology of Current World Issues
Via The University of Queensland, Brisbane
Swayam
 155 courses
Edx
 128 courses
Futurelearn
 74 courses
Coursera
 52 courses
Udemy
 29 courses

Explore Top Universities Across Globe

University of Essex, Colchester
 Wivenhoe Park Colchester CO4 3SQ
University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen
 King's College, Aberdeen, AB24 3FX
Keele University, Newcastle
 Staffordshire, UK, ST5 5BG
The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh
 Old College, South Bridge, Edinburgh, Post Code EH8 9YL
Queen Mary University of London, London
 Mile End Road, London E1 4NS
Lancaster University, Lancaster
 Bailrigg, Lancaster LA1 4YW
Magister Jurisdiction
4 minMar 18, 2023 16:03 PM IST
GMAT Exam Dates 2025: City Wise Test Schedule in India
13 minDec 31, 2024 03:12 AM IST

Questions related to L.L.B

Have a question related to L.L.B ?

The Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) program in India is typically a three-year course pursued after completing an undergraduate degree. The first-year fees for LL.B. programs vary across institutions, generally ranging from INR30,000 to INR85,000 per year.



Admission Requirements:


Admission to LL.B. programs is primarily based on entrance examinations. Some of the prominent entrance exams include:


Common Law Admission Test (CLAT): Conducted for admission to National Law Universities (NLUs) across India.



All India Law Entrance Test (AILET): Organized by National Law University, Delhi, for its undergraduate and postgraduate law programs.



Law School Admission Test (LSAT) – India: Accepted by various law schools in India.



State-Level Entrance Exams: Many states conduct their own entrance exams for LL.B. admissions. For instance, Maharashtra has the Maharashtra Common Entrance Test (MH-CET) for law.



Some institutions may also offer direct admission based on merit or previous academic performance.


Institutions in Dehradun Offering LL.B.:


In Dehradun, several institutions offer LL.B. programs. Here are a few options:


Law College Dehradun (LCD)

Dehradun, India

Offers a three-year LL.B. (Hons.) program with first-year fees approximately INR84,400.


Uttaranchal University

Dehradun, India

Provides a three-year LL.B. (Hons.) program with first-year fees around INR1,42,000 for All India Quota students.


UPES School of Law

Dehradun, India

Offers a three-year LL.B. (Hons.) program with first-year fees approximately INR3,98,000.


Please note that fee structures and admission requirements are subject to change. It's advisable to visit the official websites of these institutions or contact their admission offices for the most current information.

Hello there,

Hello! Since you're interested in pursuing a 1-year diploma course in Fashion Designing after your BBA LLB, here's a guide to help you:

  1. Eligibility : Many fashion designing diploma courses accept students based on their 10th and 12th marks, so you won’t need a portfolio initially.

  2. Course Options : You can consider enrolling in foundation courses in Fashion Designing, which are aimed at students without a portfolio or prior experience.

    These courses often focus on:

    • Basics of fashion design
    • Textile and fabric knowledge
    • Fashion illustration
    • Fashion history and trends

  3. Institutes Offering Diploma Courses :

    • National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) : Offers foundation courses in Fashion Design, even for students without a portfolio.

    • Pearl Academy : Known for their diploma courses in Fashion Designing.

    • International Institute of Fashion Design (INIFD) : Offers entry-level courses without requiring a portfolio.

    • JD Institute of Fashion Technology : Offers diploma courses with a foundation level.

  4. Admission : Generally, for foundation diploma courses, admission will be based on academic records (10th and 12th marks). Some institutes may conduct interviews or written tests as part of the selection process.

  5. Duration : Most diploma courses are 1 year, and you can look for one that fits your interest in gaining hands-on skills and knowledge in fashion design.

You can explore the websites of the mentioned institutes for detailed admission processes and course structures.


I hope this answer helps you. If you have more queries then feel free to share your questions with us we will be happy to assist you.

Thank you and wishing you all the best for your bright future.


Hello,

Here are the key points explaining the absence of the LLB option in the CUET 2025 application form:

  • Discontinuation of Legal Studies Subject : The NTA has removed the 'Legal Studies' subject from the CUET UG syllabus.

  • Introduction of General Aptitude Test : Admissions to integrated LLB programs will now be based on a newly introduced General Aptitude Test that assesses general knowledge, current affairs, and logical reasoning.

  • Impact on BA LLB Admissions : BA LLB admissions will rely on the General Aptitude Test scores, replacing the previous focus on Legal Studies.

  • Changes in Exam Format : The CUET UG 2025 exam will be a computer-based test with mandatory questions and a fixed duration of 60 minutes per subject.

  • Flexibility in Subject Selection : Candidates can choose subjects regardless of their Class 12 curriculum, offering greater flexibility in selection.

Hope it helps !

Hello Nisha,

If you are unable to find the "BA LLB" option in your form and only see "LLB," here’s what you can do:

  1. Select LLB : Choose LLB as it is commonly used for both BA LLB and LLB.
  2. Provide Clarification : If possible, mention BA LLB in a comment or clarification section of the form.
  3. Contact Authorities : Reach out to the admissions office for guidance or clarification about how to proceed.
  4. Check for Updates : Sometimes forms are updated, so check again later for more options.

Make sure your specific course is mentioned when you complete your details.

Hope it helps !

The last date for admission to the BA LLB course at Sri Sukhmani Institute of Management for 2025 was March 31, 2025.

Admission process

  • The application process for admission to Sri Sukhmani Institute of Management is done online on the college's website.
  • Applicants must meet the eligibility and selection criteria set by the college.
  • Applicants must clear the entrance exam and interview.
  • Applicants must pay the required fee to secure their seat.

Eligibility criteria

  • Applicants must have completed 10+2 or equivalent examination from a recognized board with a minimum percentage or CGPA.
  • Applicants must appear for entrance exams like CLAT, AILET, or the entrance exams conducted by individual universities.

GOOD LUCK!!

View All
Lawyer

A lawyer is a professional who practises law. An Individual in the lawyer career path defends his or her client's cases and makes arguments on his or her behalf in both criminal and civil proceedings. A lawyer may advise and assist clients on how they should handle their legal issues. An individual as a career in law in India is considered one of the most sought-after careers.

A lawyer's job requires inhibiting skills. It involves practical applications of abstract legal theories and knowledge to solve specialised individual problems or to facilitate the interests of those who hire a lawyer to perform legal services. Here, in this article, we will discuss how to become a lawyer after 10th, is lawyer a good career in India, and how to become a lawyer in India.

4 Jobs Available
Civil Lawyer

Are you searching for a civil lawyer job description? A civil lawyer is a law professional who deals with disputes that come under civil law. Civil law is applicable to issues related t property and business disputes, family disputes, and torts. A tort can be defined as a civil wrong that causes the other person harm or injury. A Civil lawyer handles disputes regarding personal injury, family relationships, real estate, and employment. A career as a civil lawyer requires working with government entities and business institutions. 

3 Jobs Available
Human Rights Lawyer

Individuals in the human rights lawyer career path are legal professionals responsible for advocating for people whose inherent dignity has been violated and who have suffered a lot of injustice. They take cases to defend the human rights of minorities, vulnerable populations, the LGBTQI community, indigenous people and others. 

2 Jobs Available
Criminal Lawyer

A criminal lawyer is a lawyer who specialises in the field of crimes and punishments. Individuals who have been accused of committing a crime are guided by a criminal lawyer. Bail bond hearings, plea bargains, trials, dismissal hearings, appeals, and post-conviction procedures are all part of his or her work. Criminal law is the body of law that describes criminal acts, governs the arrest, prosecution, and trial of offenders, and defines the sentences and correctional options that are available to criminals.

2 Jobs Available
Family Lawyer

Family lawyers are required to assist a client in resolving any family-related problem. In general, family lawyers operate as mediators between family members when conflicts arise. Individuals who opt for a career as Family Lawyer is charged with drafting prenuptial agreements to protect someone's financial interests prior to marriage, consulting on grounds for impeachment or civil union separation, and drafting separation agreements.

2 Jobs Available
Cyber Lawyer

Cyber law careers deal with cyber law job opportunities concerning cybercrimes of all aspects such as cyberbullying, cyber frauds, cyber stalking, sharing personal information without consent, intellectual property and intellectual property, transactions, and freedom of speech.

2 Jobs Available
Immigration Lawyer

An immigration lawyer is responsible for representing the individuals (clients) involved in the immigration process that includes legal, and illegal citizens and refugees who want to reside in the country, start a business or get employment. 

2 Jobs Available
Government Lawyer

A career as Government Lawyer is a professional who deals with law and requires to work for the government. He or she is required to work for either the state government or central government and is also known as Advocate General of the state and attorney general. A career as Government Lawyer requires one to work on behalf of government ministers and administrative staff. He or she gives legal advice and provides legal services in the public interest.

2 Jobs Available
Back to top