An attorney is the official name for a lawyer. It is a shortened form of “attorney-at-law.” When someone needs legal advice or representation in a court of law, they must contact an attorney. Attorneys can help a client settle a disagreement in a court of law. Attorneys can also help determine the outcome of a criminal case. Attorneys may also be consulted when the legality of an individual or company’s actions is in question. Attorneys interpret the law and make certain that all actions are legal. Attorneys function as negotiators of contracts in contractual agreements between two or more parties. An attorney may choose the type of law in which he or she desires to specialize. Choosing an experienced lawyer is crucial in having the law work in an advantageous manner.