Solicitor vs Notary Public vs Lawyer in India: Explained

The three designations explained

• Lawyer / Advocate: The primary practising legal professional in India. Enrolled with a State Bar Council under the Advocates Act, 1961. Can appear in court and represent clients in all legal matters. The designation 'lawyer' is informal. The correct term under Indian law is 'advocate.'
• Solicitor: A historical designation used primarily in Maharashtra, inherited from the British system. Today, solicitors are enrolled as advocates and there is no current regulatory distinction. Firms using 'solicitors' in their name are treating it as a heritage designation only.
• Notary Public: Government-appointed official under the Notaries Act, 1952. Authenticates and attests documents. Affidavits, powers of attorney, certified copies. A notary is not required to be an advocate. Notary fees are regulated (₹100–₹500 for standard documents).

Which one do you need?

• Need someone to appear in court: Enrolled advocate. No alternative.
• Need a contract drafted or reviewed: Advocate or legal consultant.
• Need an affidavit attested or a document notarised: Notary Public.
• Need a power of attorney attested for use abroad: Notary Public (first step), then apostille from MEA.
• Need property due diligence and sale deed drafting: Advocate with property law experience.
• Need business registration and ROC compliance: Company Secretary or corporate advocate.

Frequently asked questions