obtained counsel

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "obtained counsel" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in legal contexts when referring to the act of hiring or securing legal advice or representation. Example: "After much consideration, she decided that she had obtained counsel to help her navigate the complexities of the case."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

It was not clear on Saturday whether Mr. Mohamud had yet obtained counsel.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

In singles, the player works alone, no opportunities to obtain counsel from coaches, no teammates to take up the slack.

The Guardian - Opinion

I contacted his friends and associates who raised enough money to post bond and obtain counsel.

Vice

Alternatively, he argued that the judge should have stayed or adjourned the trial until he was able to obtain counsel himself.

Wikipedia

They argued that the contempt charges would prevent future CPUSA defendants from obtaining counsel, because attorneys would be afraid of judicial retaliation.

Wikipedia

During the nineteen-sixties, pilot programs in New York and Washington, D.C., demonstrated that when charges were suspended for ninety days, so that low-income defendants who had been arrested for nonviolent crimes could obtain counselling and job-placement services, offenders often turned their lives around to a point where the charges were dropped.

The New Yorker

While Glowatski had been represented by a public defender who specialized in DUIs, Ellard's family obtained the counsel of one of Canada's most distinguished lawyers, Adrian Brooks, to represent the daughter they believed was unfairly accused.

Vice

While Warren had been represented by a public defender who specialized in DUIs, Kelly's family obtained the counsel of one of Canada's most distinguished lawyers, Adrian Brooks, to represent the daughter they believed was unfairly accused.

Vice

Though Sumaji's police-appointed lawyer agreed that Sumaji had confessed to the crime, within a week Sumaji obtained independent counsel through whom he attempted to withdraw the confession.

Wikipedia

But even though the allowance obtained through counselling is referred to as minimal, it was seen as an important contribution to the family income during FGDs: "We come here during our days off.

Human Resources for Health

In addition, the M.D.C.'s restrictive and inconsistent policies on telephone access for detainees prevented them from obtaining legal counsel in a timely manner.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "obtained counsel" in legal writing, ensure you clarify the type of counsel (e.g., defense counsel, independent counsel) for better clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "obtained counsel" in casual conversation; simpler phrases like "hired a lawyer" are more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "obtained counsel" functions as a verb phrase where "obtained" is the verb, and "counsel" is the noun acting as the direct object. Ludwig AI states that the phrase is correct and usable in written English, especially in legal contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

22%

Science

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

9%

Reference

8%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "obtained counsel" is a formal way of stating that someone has secured legal representation or advice. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability, particularly in legal settings. While grammatically sound, it's more suited to formal and professional contexts than casual conversation. Common alternatives include "secured legal representation" and "retained a lawyer". Its usage is most prevalent in news, legal documentation, and formal correspondence. Remember to clarify the type of counsel for increased precision, and avoid using it in everyday conversations where simpler language is more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Secured legal representation

Focuses on the outcome of acquiring legal representation, rather than the process.

Retained a lawyer

Emphasizes the act of hiring a lawyer for ongoing services.

Sought legal advice

Highlights the action of seeking guidance, not necessarily hiring a lawyer.

Hired an attorney

A more direct synonym, specifying the type of legal professional.

Enlisted legal assistance

Implies a broader range of help, not just a lawyer.

Consulted a legal expert

Focuses on seeking advice from someone with legal expertise.

Engaged legal services

A more formal way of saying hired a lawyer or law firm.

Procured legal guidance

Similar to seeking legal advice, but slightly more formal.

Acquired legal representation

Similar to secured legal representation, but focuses on the act of acquiring.

Found a legal advisor

Focuses on the act of finding someone to provide legal advice.

FAQs

What does "obtained counsel" mean in a legal context?

In legal terms, "obtained counsel" means that a person has secured the services of a lawyer or attorney to provide legal advice and representation.

Is it better to say "obtained counsel" or "hired a lawyer"?

While both phrases are correct, "obtained counsel" is more formal and often used in legal documents or news reports. "Hired a lawyer" is more common in everyday conversation.

What can I say instead of "obtained counsel"?

You can use alternatives like "secured legal representation", "retained a lawyer", or "sought legal advice" depending on the context.

When is it important to "obtain counsel"?

It's crucial to "obtain counsel" when facing legal charges, dealing with complex legal documents, or when involved in any situation where legal expertise is necessary to protect your rights.