The role and function of the university attorney in relation to educational policy-making, administrative science, and institutional decision-making warrants investigation due to an increase in concern for legislation and litigation in higher education that parallels an increase in the systematic study of higher education. Through a social psychological approach, the function of the university attorney is investigated and a conceptual typology is presented that diagrams key variables (autonomy, organizational hierarchy, advocate role, counselor role) that influence the role of an attorney. Differing views of the role of the university attorney as advocate and as counselor are presented. Further research is recommended to fully understand the role of the university attorney. (BH)