Attorney practices law in court, whereas a lawyer is learned and trained in the law but may or may not practice. The word attorney originates from the French meaning ‘one appointed or constituted.’ The real purpose of this word is to act as an agent or deputy on behalf of another. Lawyers can take on the role of consultants or advisors. Many people choose to train in a specific field, such as estate law, immigration law, or tax law, where they will provide legal advice to clients.