What is a Pleader in Law?

In law, a pleader is a person who presents a case in court on behalf of another party. This can include lawyers, but it can also include self-represented litigants who are representing themselves in court.

The term "pleader" is derived from the Latin word "pleger," which means "to make an offering." In the context of law, a pleader is someone who offers arguments and evidence on behalf of their client in order to persuade the court to make a particular decision.

Pleaders can present cases in a variety of legal forums, including trial courts, appellate courts, and administrative agencies. They may present oral arguments, submit written briefs, or both, depending on the specific rules of the court and the nature of the case.

In some jurisdictions, the term "pleader" is used interchangeably with the term "attorney," but in other jurisdictions, the two terms have distinct meanings. For example, in some courts, a pleader may be a person who is not a licensed attorney but who is authorized to represent a party in court, while an attorney is a licensed legal professional who has undergone specialized training and is authorized to practice law.