Which term describes a lawyer's work that does not involve legal disputes?

The term that best describes a lawyer's work that does not involve legal disputes is "non-contentious work." This type of work focuses on providing legal services in areas that do not lead to litigation or adversarial situations. It includes activities such as drafting contracts, negotiating agreements, providing legal advice, and ensuring compliance with laws and regulations. Non-contentious work is essential for preventing disputes from arising in the first place.

In contrast, contentious work and litigated work refer to services that are directly involved in disputes and court proceedings. Defensive work typically implies a focus on protecting a client against claims or litigation, which is also linked to contentious scenarios. Therefore, the correct answer emphasizes the proactive, preventative nature of non-contentious legal practices, differentiating it from areas that engage in or prepare for legal disputes.