Definition
Esquire (Esq.) is an honorary title often used by lawyers in the United States and certain other countries. It follows an attorney’s name to signify that the individual is authorized to practice law. For example, instead of writing “Mr. Allen Seegull,” it would be “Allen Seegull, Esq.”
Examples
- Professional Correspondence: “Dear Allen Seegull, Esq., we are pleased to announce that your application for partnership has been approved.”
- Legal Documents: The filing mentioned, “Allen Seegull, Esq., as the representative of the claimant.”
- Business Cards: Printed simply as “Allen Seegull, Esq.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does the title ‘Esq.’ signify?
A: The title ‘Esq.’ signifies that the individual is a qualified and licensed attorney.
Q: Can anyone use the title ‘Esq.’?
A: No, it is reserved for those who are licensed to practice law.
Q: Is ‘Esquire’ a title used globally?
A: While it is predominantly used in the United States, the term also has usage in the United Kingdom, albeit with different connotations.
Q: Can someone use ‘Esq.’ before their name?
A: No, ‘Esq.’ is a post-nominal title and should be used after the person’s name.
Q: Do all lawyers use ‘Esq.’ after their name?
A: Not all lawyers use the title, but it is commonly recognized and used in legal contexts.
Related Terms
- Attorney: A person appointed to act for another in business or legal matters.
- Barrister: A lawyer entitled to practice as an advocate, particularly in higher courts.
- Solicitor: A legal practitioner who traditionally deals with legal paperwork and court proceedings in some jurisdictions.
Online Resources
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Thinking Like a Lawyer: A New Introduction to Legal Reasoning” by Frederick Schauer
- “Becoming a Lawyer: Discovering and Defining Your Professional Persona” by Mark A. Aaronson
- “The Tools of Argument: How the Best Lawyers Think, Argue, and Win” by Joel P. Trachtman