Understanding the Difference Between "Law" and "Act" and "Lawyer" vs. "Advocate" – Can You Help Clarify?

Respected Seniors,

Please clarify my doubts regarding the basic differences between "LAW & ACT" and, secondly, "LAWYER & ADVOCATE."

Help me out, please.

Thanks & regards,
Purshottam Saini

Dear Friend,

The definition of Law is inclusive and includes the Acts passed by legislators. Therefore, we can say that the definition of Law is broader, and the definition of Act is narrower.

There is no technical difference between Advocate and Lawyer except for the literal distinction: An Advocate advocates for his clients' positions, while a Lawyer is the individual who practices law.

Regards

Dear Mr. Saini,

Basically, the term "law" covers the following:

1) Constitution of India
2) Acts passed by the Parliament or State Legislature
3) Rules made under the Acts
4) Notifications issued under the Acts
5) Judgements of the Supreme Court and High Courts

Thus, "Acts" are only a part of the "law". Acts by themselves do not cover the entire law on the subject. For example, the ESI Act provides that the rates of sickness benefit, maternity benefit, etc., shall be such as may be prescribed by the Central Government. Accordingly, ESI (Central) Rules provide the rates of such benefits. Thus, the "Act" and "Rules" have to be read together for the law.

Hope it is clear.

Regards,