When you see the abbreviation “Esq.” at the end of a lawyer’s name, you might be curious about what it means. This title has a long history and a special meaning in the legal field. It comes from the word “Esquire.” In current usage, it refers to a lawyer who is licensed and allowed to practice law. The term may seem formal or old-fashioned, but it is important for telling lawyers apart from people who work in related areas.
The proper use of the title Esquire is reserved for lawyers who have finished law school and passed the bar exam. Esq. emphasizes a professional’s legal power more than terms like lawyer or counsel, which are more general. People usually use this title in formal writing to show the individual’s legal status and expertise.
The Origins of “Esquire”
In ancient England, an esquire was someone who was just below a knight in terms of rank. This historical background explains why the title makes people think of respect and power. As time went on, the term changed from a sign of nobility to a sign of professional achievement, especially in law. Since noble titles are against the law in the US, Esq. has become a professional term instead of a social rank.
Who Can Use the Title “Esquire”?
People must meet certain requirements in order to use Esq. after their name:
- Completion of Law School: Getting a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from a recognized law school is the first step.
- Passing the Bar Exam: To become qualified as an attorney, candidates must pass the bar exam in their state.
- Authorization to Practice: The title can only be used by practicing lawyers who are actually providing legal services or representing clients.
People who graduated from law school but haven’t passed the bar can use the term J.D. but not Esquire. For instance, John Smith, Esq. means that John Smith is a trained lawyer who is actively practicing.
How “Esquire” Differs from Other Legal Titles
There are several legal titles, and each one is used for a distinct purpose:
- Lawyer: A lawyer is anyone with a law degree, even if they are not licensed to practice law.
- Attorney: This refers to a registered lawyer who is authorized to practice law.
- Counsel: This word is usually used for lawyers who give advice instead of going to court.
- Attorney-at-Law: A formal term for a lawyer that is often used in official documents.
It’s true that all attorneys are lawyers, but not all lawyers are attorneys or use the term esquire. Knowing these differences makes it easier to understand what “Esq.” means in legal terms.
The Role of Esquire in Communication
Instead of being used in speech, esquire is more often used in official writing. Some examples are:
- Legal Documents: It ensures that the people who receive the document know that it was written by a qualified attorney.
- Letterheads and Email Signatures: Showcase the sender’s professional power in the legal field.
- Professional Introductions: Sometimes used to show how knowledgeable someone is about the law.
When writing a letter to a lawyer, it is correct to address them as Jane Doe, Esq., for instance, but wrong to call them Ms. Jane Doe, Esq.
Why Esquire Matters
The term Esquire is more than just for decorative purposes. It:
- Confirms Legal Authority: This shows that the person is a licensed and skilled attorney.
- Enhances Professional Credibility: Clients and coworkers will respect and trust the lawyer more.
- Differentiates Legal Professionals: It sets practicing lawyers apart from other legal professionals, such as paralegals.
Even though some lawyers choose not to use the title, having it makes them look like more trustworthy lawyers.
Source: Justicenter Personal Injury Lawyers, CA
