Called to the bar - Definition and Overview

In England and Wales, barristers (i.e., lawyers who are licensed to argue cases in court, as opposed to those licensed only for other forms of legal practice) are those who have been "called to the bar" or to have received a "call to the bar". In Canada the same nomenclature is used though there is generally no distinction between barristers and solicitors (except in Quebec where the civil law notary is very similar to the solicitor). In the United States lawyers are said to have been admitted to the bar upon taking their oath of office. In some states the bar association is actually the corporate body of lawyers in that state, while in other states admission is regulated by the courts. Being called to the bar has its origin in the royal summons that was issued to one seen fit to serve in the royal court at the monarch's pleasure.