Who is an individual seeking legal assistance or services referred to as?

The term that best describes an individual seeking legal assistance or services is "Client." This designation is widely used in the legal profession to identify someone who has engaged a legal professional to represent them or provide legal advice.

The term "Client" encompasses a range of legal contexts, from those in need of representation in court to individuals seeking guidance on matters such as contracts, wills, or real estate transactions. This relationship is typically characterized by a contractual agreement where the legal professional agrees to provide services in exchange for fees, establishing a fiduciary relationship grounded in trust and confidentiality.

While other terms such as "Defendant," "Consumer," and "Litigant" are related to legal contexts, they carry specific connotations that do not universally apply to all individuals seeking legal help. For instance, a "Defendant" specifically refers to someone accused in a court case, a "Litigant" refers to a person engaged in a lawsuit, and "Consumer" implies a broader market relationship that is not exclusive to legal matters. Thus, "Client" is the most appropriate and widely accepted term for someone seeking legal services.