Translation guide
The English word 'attorney' refers to a legal professional who represents clients. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 弁護士 (bengoshi), but the role and terminology differ from the US/UK legal systems. This guide covers how to express the concept naturally in Japanese.
Referring to a licensed legal professional who advises clients and represents them in court.
The standard term for a lawyer/attorney in Japan. Covers both solicitors and barristers in a general sense.
He is an attorney.
You should consult an attorney.
A broader term meaning 'legal expert' or 'jurist'. Can include attorneys, judges, and scholars. Less specific than 弁護士.
She is an excellent attorney.
A formal, collective term for legal professionals (judges, prosecutors, attorneys). Used in official contexts.
I want to work in the legal profession.
Specifically referring to a US attorney, often in contrast to other legal roles.
Referring to the legal document or the person granted authority to act on another's behalf.
Referring to a government attorney who prosecutes criminal cases.
While 弁護士 is the direct equivalent, the Japanese legal profession is unified; there is no formal split between solicitors and barristers. Avoid using 法務博士 (ほうむはくし) or other terms unless referring to academic degrees.
In Japanese, you would typically address an attorney as 先生 (せんせい) to show respect, similar to doctors and teachers. Example: 田中先生、ご相談があります。 (Mr./Ms. Tanaka, I have a legal matter to discuss.)
ニューヨークの弁護士に依頼した。
I hired a New York attorney.
He is my attorney-in-fact.
The prosecutor's questioning began.