Solicitor

Alternative forms

• solicitour obsolete

Full definition of solicitor

Noun

1. In many common law jurisdictions, a type of lawyer whose traditional role is to offer legal services to clients apart from acting as their advocate in court. A solicitor instructs a barrister to act as an advocate for their client in court, although rights of audience for solicitors vary according to jurisdiction.
2. In English Canada and in parts of Australia, a type of lawyer who historically held the same role as above, but whose role has in modern times been merged with that of a barrister.
3. In parts of the U.S., the chief legal officer of a city, town or other jurisdiction.
4. (North America) A person soliciting sales, especially door to door.

Usage notes

Jurisdictions using the common-law definition include England and Wales, Scotland, the Republic of Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, India, Hong Kong, and Singapore.

Derived terms

• solicitor general

Extyernal links