A lawyer is a professional person authorized to practice law, provide legal counsel and conduct lawsuits for a person or entity. The exact terminology for the word "Lawyer" varies throughout world. Attorney, counsel, barrister or solicitor depending on the place are all names given to lawyers.

The origin of the profession dates back to ancient Greece, when orators spoke on behalf of friends or citizens at their request. Although they acted as legal counsel, according to Athenian law, orators could not be paid for their services, nor could they organize themselves as a legal profession. The earliest lawyers in ancient Rome, around 204 BC, received payment for their services when Emperor Claudius legalized the profession and lifted the ban on fees.