The legal system is complex and critical. It’s also a daunting area for a layperson. There are various roles within it and each one contributes to upholding justice.
Lawyers and prosecutors have two integral roles. They’re also often confused with each other. Both are legal professionals who represent clients in court. However, they have different responsibilities, objectives, and roles in the justice system.
So what is the difference between a lawyer and a prosecutor? This article will break down their responsibilities and roles in court.
Defining a Lawyer and Their Responsibilities
There is a good chance you watched a lot of legal dramas growing up. These are TV staples and why many young people want to be lawyers.
A lawyer is a legal professional who provides legal advice and represents clients. It’s your job to handle legal disputes. But isn’t that the job of an attorney? Yes, it is. Lawyers and attorneys both completed law school and passed the board exam. An attorney practices law in court. A lawyer specializes in different areas, like family law or criminal defense.
Your role and responsibilities as a lawyer depend on your specialization. But your primary duties include:
You can find jobs in a variety of industries as a lawyer. Lawyers can work in private law firms, corporate legal departments, or government agencies.
Breaking Down a Prosecutor’s Tasks
Do you prefer a federal job? Then being a prosecutor is right down your alley. A prosecutor is a government lawyer. They’re responsible for bringing criminal charges against individuals accused of wrongdoing.
As a prosecutor, you’ll represent the government in court. You can work at the local, state, or federal level. Your role is to seek justice instead of securing convictions. It’s your job to hold the guilty accountable while protecting the rights of the accused.
Prosecutors do not represent individual clients. They serve the public interest instead by prosecuting criminal offenses. You have several key responsibilities as a prosecutor. These include:
Career Paths: Lawyer vs. Prosecutor
Lawyers and prosecutors have similar educational backgrounds, but their career trajectories differ.
As a lawyer, you can work in a private practice or join corporate legal teams. You can also become a government attorney. It’s different if you are a prosecutor. Most begin their law career working in a Das office or at the Department of Justice. Some prosecutors transition into private law practice later.
Many lawyers opt to become prosecutors first to gain courtroom experience. They’ll use this experience later on when they move into private practice. Prosecutors do something similar. Many move into criminal defense later in their careers.
Lawyers and prosecutors share a similar legal background. But they have different roles in the justice system. Lawyers represent clients and provide legal guidance. Prosecutors focus on criminal cases and seek justice on behalf of the government. Both professionals play crucial roles in maintaining the legal system.
