Counsel Meaning
Counsel Definition & Usage
Advice or guidance offered to someone, typically in a formal or professional context.
Examples
- "After the meeting, she sought counsel from her mentor about the difficult decision."
- "The lawyer provided expert counsel regarding the terms of the contract."
- "The company hired a financial counsel to assist with their investment strategy."
- "His counsel was invaluable during the negotiations, helping to navigate complex legal issues."
- "Parents often seek counsel from a child psychologist to understand their children's behavior."
To give advice, guidance, or recommendations to someone.
Examples
- "She counseled him on the best course of action for his career change."
- "The therapist counseled the couple on communication techniques."
- "The team was counseled to avoid making rash decisions during the crisis."
- "He counseled his friend to take a break before making any major life decisions."
- "Parents often counsel their children about the importance of education."
The profession or practice of providing legal advice, typically by a lawyer or attorney.
Examples
- "She sought counsel from a top-tier law firm to resolve the dispute."
- "His counsel in the courtroom helped secure a favorable verdict."
- "The defendant was provided with counsel to ensure his rights were protected."
- "The judge recommended that the parties involved in the lawsuit seek counsel before proceeding further."
- "Without proper legal counsel, the accused risked making detrimental decisions."
Cultural Context
The term 'counsel' has roots in both legal and general advice contexts. Historically, it was used in both personal and formal settings to denote advice given by trusted individuals. In legal culture, 'counsel' remains a formal term for a lawyer or attorney. Its usage in other fields has evolved but retains the core idea of trusted advice.
A Moment of Counsel
Story
A Moment of Counsel
As the rain pattered softly on the windows of the small law office, Clara sat across from her lawyer, her hands clasped tightly in her lap. She had never been in such a situation before and the stress of the legal proceedings weighed heavily on her. The lawyer, Mr. Daniels, noticed her unease. He leaned forward, his expression one of deep thought and compassion. 'Clara, before we proceed, I want to give you some counsel on your options here. The decision you make today will impact not only the case but your future.' Clara listened intently, her anxiety slowly ebbing as Mr. Daniels provided expert legal counsel, explaining the strengths and weaknesses of each possible outcome. 'You need to understand the long-term implications of your choice. I am here to guide you, not just as your lawyer, but as someone who wants what's best for you.' After the meeting, Clara felt a sense of clarity. She had been counseled to seek a settlement rather than continue a costly and time-consuming court battle. It was sound advice, and Clara knew it was the right decision. Later that day, Clara visited her mother. Sitting down over tea, she began recounting her experience. Her mother, a woman known for her wisdom, offered her own counsel, not from a legal standpoint, but from a lifetime of experience. 'Whatever you decide, Clara, make sure it’s something that aligns with your values. Trust yourself.' The two of them spoke for hours, Clara feeling comforted by the wisdom her mother had shared. In that moment, she realized that counsel could come in many forms—sometimes from professionals, and sometimes from the heart of those who love you most.
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