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If you’ve ever received a formal letter or email from a lawyer, you might have seen the title “Esquire” (often abbreviated as “Esq.”) placed after their name. While the term may sound traditional or even a bit old-fashioned, it still holds meaning in today’s legal profession.

So, what exactly does “Esquire” mean? Why do some lawyers use it? And how does it differ from other legal titles like “attorney” or “counsel”? In this article, we’ll explore the meaning and relevance of “Esquire,” who is allowed to use it, and why understanding legal titles can help when dealing with legal matters.

What Is “Esquire”?

In modern American law, “Esquire” is a title used to show that someone is a licensed attorney. It’s not used in casual conversation but rather in written communication, such as letters, business cards, or email signatures. The title dates back to English history, where it originally referred to men of high social status just below the rank of knight.

Today, in the United States, “Esquire” simply identifies someone who has the right to practice law. When you see a name like “Jordan Lee, Esq.,” it means that person is a legally recognized attorney who can represent clients and provide legal advice.

Who Can Use the Title “Esquire”?

Not everyone who studies law is entitled to use “Esquire.” This title is reserved for individuals who have met the legal requirements to practice law. That includes:

• Completing law school and earning a degree (typically a Juris Doctor, or J.D.)

• Passing the bar exam in their state or jurisdiction

• Receiving a law license from the relevant state authority

Once these steps are completed, the attorney is authorized to use “Esquire” after their name. For example:

Alicia Ramirez, Esq.

This tells you that Alicia Ramirez is not only educated in the law, but also officially licensed to represent clients in court and provide legal counsel.

It’s important to note that someone who has a law degree but hasn’t passed the bar or isn’t licensed cannot legally or ethically use the “Esquire” title.

Is "Esquire" the Same as Being an Attorney?

The terms “Esquire” and “attorney” are closely related but serve different purposes.

• Attorney is the general term for someone who is licensed to practice law.

• Esquire is more of a courtesy or honorific title used after an attorney’s name in formal writing.

So while every “Esquire” is an attorney, not all law graduates or legal professionals can use that title. The key difference is that “Esquire” emphasizes formal recognition and is used in professional contexts.

How Does "Esquire" Compare to Other Legal Titles?

The legal field uses several titles, and they can sometimes be confusing. Here’s a simple breakdown:

• Lawyer: Anyone with a law degree, regardless of whether they are licensed to practice.

• Attorney-at-Law: A formal title that means the same as “attorney” and is often used in legal documents.

• Counsel or Legal Counsel: Usually refers to an attorney who advises a business or organization but may not handle litigation.

• Barrister and Solicitor: Common in the UK, these titles separate courtroom lawyers (barristers) from legal advisers (solicitors). In the U.S., both roles fall under the term “attorney.”

Is It Necessary for Lawyers to Use “Esquire”?

No, the use of “Esquire” is entirely optional. Some lawyers use it in all their professional correspondence, while others prefer not to. Choosing whether or not to use the title is a matter of personal style, not a legal requirement.

In courtroom settings, lawyers are usually addressed as “Mr.” or “Ms.” followed by their last name. The term “Esquire” is rarely, if ever, used during spoken proceedings.

How and When to Use “Esquire”

“Esquire” is generally used in formal writing. Here’s how it might appear in professional communication:

Michael Adams, Esq.  

RIE Law  

100 Legal Drive  

Cityville, ST 12345