defend a client

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "defend a client" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in legal contexts when referring to a lawyer's role in representing and protecting the interests of their client in a court of law. Example: "The attorney worked tirelessly to defend a client accused of a crime, ensuring that their rights were upheld throughout the trial."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

Should a lawyer continue to defend a client whom she believes to be lying?

The New York Times

I would defend a client who I knew was guilty of horrific crimes.

The Guardian

Mr. Turner became well prepared to defend a client — who was arrested at the airport with a weapon in his carry-on.

The New York Times

Indeed, he was overcome by a terrifying stage fright whenever he stood up to read a speech at a social gathering or to defend a client in court.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It is difficult for a brave lawyer to defend a client, because if you repeat what the person is accused of saying, that is blasphemous too.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Mr. Espada's complaints about his counsel are not credible," the judge said, adding that a fee dispute of the sort described by Mr. Hochheiser did not absolve a lawyer's responsibility to defend a client.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

The election came just weeks after Hafen faced sharp criticism for placing Clark County Deputy Public Defender Zohra Bakhtary in handcuffs as she defended a client who faced jail for violating probation.

Huffington Post

If so, he can end the proceeding there, granting the defendant immunity from criminal prosecution and civil lawsuits, said Mr. Weiner, who successfully defended a client recently under the law.

The New York Times

One minute they're defending a client at the bar, the next - is it flattery?

The Guardian

"I would give him an A but not an A plus," said Anthony D'Amato, a law professor at Northwestern University who defended a client at the tribunal here.

The New York Times

What is more complicated is defending a client, for whom you feel sympathy".

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about legal matters, using "defend a client" clearly conveys the lawyer's role in protecting their client's interests in court. This phrase avoids ambiguity and is readily understood in both legal and general contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "defend a client" too broadly. It specifically refers to legal defense, not general support. If you mean general advocacy or support, consider alternatives like "support a client" or "advocate for a client" to better reflect the intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "defend a client" functions primarily as a verb phrase indicating the action of providing legal representation and advocacy. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in legal contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Science

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "defend a client" is a commonly used and grammatically correct phrase, as validated by Ludwig AI, primarily used to describe a lawyer's role in providing legal representation. It is most frequently found in news and media sources and carries a neutral register. Alternative phrases like "represent a client" or "advocate for a client" can be used depending on the specific context. While generally clear, it's important to use the phrase accurately to refer specifically to legal defense, and not broader support. The phrase is well-supported by authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian, further confirming its validity and widespread usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

represent a client

Emphasizes the act of acting on behalf of someone in a legal setting, focusing on the representative aspect.

advocate for a client

Highlights the act of pleading or arguing in favor of a client's cause.

represent in court

Focuses specifically on representing a client during court proceedings.

provide legal defense

Stresses the provision of a structured legal argument and support.

act as counsel for

Uses more formal language to indicate the role of a legal advisor.

take on a client's case

Focuses on accepting the responsibility to handle a client's legal matter.

handle a legal defense

Highlights managing and organizing the defense strategy in legal proceedings.

offer legal representation

Focuses on offering professional legal services to a client.

fight for a client

Emphasizes the effort and determination involved in supporting a client's legal battle.

stand up for a client

Stresses the support and advocacy for a client, especially in challenging situations.

FAQs

How can I use "defend a client" in a sentence?

You can use "defend a client" to describe the actions of a lawyer or legal team representing someone in court. For example, "The lawyer worked diligently to defend a client accused of fraud."

What's a good alternative to "defend a client"?

Alternatives include "represent a client", "advocate for a client", or provide legal defense, depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "defend a client" in non-legal contexts?

While primarily used in legal contexts, "defend a client" can be used metaphorically to describe vigorously supporting someone's interests. However, ensure the context makes the meaning clear to avoid confusion.

What is the difference between "defend a client" and "support a client"?

"Defend a client" specifically implies a legal defense, usually in a court setting. "Support a client" is broader and can include any form of assistance or backing, not necessarily legal in nature.