Lawyer

What lawyer means

In short, lawyer is a term you will meet in court papers, rules and legal research. The definition above gives its usual meaning in American civil practice. However, the exact meaning can depend on the rule, statute or court decision that uses it. So it helps to read the term in context.

Where lawyer comes up

The term is used across many kinds of cases. For example, you may see it in pleadings, motions and court orders. To see it in context, browse the motions and procedures library or the Learn the Law topics.

How to research the term

To research lawyer, begin with the rule, statute or contract where the word is used. Each one can give it a slightly different meaning. Then compare that text with how courts in your area have applied it. Also check the local rules of your court, since they can add requirements. If your case is in state court, the state rules control. So start with our state procedures guide to find them. In the end, always confirm that the source you rely on is current.

You can read the current federal court rules online for free.

Related legal terms

• Jury trial: a trial in which a jury decides the facts and returns a verdict, while the judge decides questions of law.
• Laches: an equitable defense that bars a claim when the plaintiff unreasonably delayed in bringing it and the delay harmed the defendant. Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 8(c)(1) lists laches as an affirmative defense.
• Lawful: permitted, authorized or not forbidden by law.
• Lawful tender: not a separate category of money under current federal law; the statutory term is "legal tender," which includes U.S. coins and currency, including Federal Reserve notes (31 U.S.C. § 5103).

Why precise terms matter

Courts read legal terms closely. As a result, knowing the exact meaning of a word helps you follow orders, rules and filings. Each glossary entry on Lawtopolis is short on purpose and links to the pages where the term is used.