How the Term ‘Esquire’ is Used in the United States
In the United States, many lawyers use the title “Esq.” with their name. The expansion of this is Esquire. If you have ever come across someone’s name followed by “Esq.,” you may be confused.
So what does esquire mean? The term carries a sense of tradition and formality, but its role in the United States is often misunderstood. Unlike in England, where it once marked social status, in America, “Esquire” is almost exclusively linked to the legal profession.
But here is the twist: it is not an official license or credential but more of a courtesy title. Let us walk through what “Esquire” means today, how it is applied, and why it matters if you are working with a lawyer.
What “Esquire” Means in the U.S. Today
In the U.S., “Esquire” made its way into legal tradition. Instead of reflecting nobility or social class, it became shorthand for identifying attorneys. Today, if you see “Esq.” at the end of someone’s name, you can usually assume they are a lawyer. For instance, “Jane Smith, Esq.” signals that Jane is part of the legal profession.
Esquire itself is not proof of a law license. Anyone could technically put it after their name. That is why clients are encouraged to confirm an attorney’s credentials with their state bar association before relying on the title alone.
When and How Lawyers Use “Esquire”
As a courtesy title for lawyers
The title is always placed after the name, e.g., Jane Doe, Esq. It signals that the person is an attorney, though it is not absolute proof of licensure.
In formal correspondence
The title is commonly used in letters, legal documents, or email sign-offs when addressing or identifying a lawyer. For example: “Dear John Smith, Esq.”
To distinguish lawyers from non-lawyers
A law school graduate can use “J.D.” (Juris Doctor), but adding “Esquire” typically implies the person has passed the bar and is practicing.
Without other honorifics
You would not write “Mr. John Smith, Esq.” Instead, the correct form is simply “John Smith, Esq.”
On professional materials
Many attorneys include it on business cards, letterheads, and pleadings as part of their professional identity.
Voluntary and unregulated
Not every attorney uses “Esquire.” Some prefer “Attorney at Law” or just list their state bar membership.
Why “Esquire” Can Be Confusing
Because “Esquire” is not officially regulated, the title can cause confusion. Clients might assume that anyone with “Esq.” is automatically licensed, active, and in good standing with the bar, which is not necessarily the case. The American Bar Association does not control its use, and no law specifically protects the title.
That is why the best way to know if someone is truly a practicing attorney is to look them up in their state’s bar directory. This will confirm not only whether they are licensed but also whether they are facing any disciplinary issues.
Misusing the Title
Although anyone could write “Esquire” after their name, misusing it to pose as a lawyer carries risks. Practicing law without a license is a serious offense. In many states, unauthorized practice of law is a crime that can lead to fines or even jail time. So, while the title itself is not strictly protected, the actions associated with being a lawyer absolutely are.
What It Means for You
For everyday people, the main takeaway is simple: “Esquire” is a courtesy title that usually, but not always, indicates a person is a lawyer. If you are hiring legal help, do not stop at the title. Take the time to verify their license, ask about their experience, and make sure they are qualified for your case.
Conclusion
The term “Esquire” may sound old-fashioned, but it remains a living tradition in American law. It is less about prestige and more about professional identification. Still, the fact that anyone can use it makes it important for clients to dig deeper. So, the next time you see “Esq.” after someone’s name, you will know it is more of a signal than a guarantee and that checking credentials is always the smarter move.
