Have you ever looked at a law firm’s website to better understand how experienced its attorneys are? You may notice that some attorneys have the letters “Esq.” after their names. This is a common abbreviation that means “Esquire.”
But what exactly does it mean when a lawyer calls themselves “Esquire”? Do they practice a specific type of law or hold some sort of higher rank? The answer to this question starts with a dive into English history.
The History of the Word “Esquire”
In medieval England, the word “esquire” once had the same meaning as the more common word “squire.” You might have heard “squire” used in historical fiction or fantasy — it refers to a loyal assistant to someone who had been knighted by an English noble. Squires often became knights themselves.
Over the years, some men began to call themselves “Esquire” to show that they were of relatively high status, although they did not have a formal title. At some point, lawyers adopted the term. The idea was that they were helpers to those of high rank, which reflected their own high status.
The Title “Esquire” Is Unofficial
While nonlawyers don’t typically use “Esquire,” there is nothing stopping them from using it.
It is illegal to impersonate a lawyer in South Carolina, but calling oneself “Esquire” does not, on its own, count as impersonation. Impersonating a lawyer would require a more significant act, like claiming to be a member of the South Carolina Bar Association.
When Do Lawyers Use “Esquire”?
Traditionally, lawyers call themselves “Esquire” after passing the Bar Exam and being admitted to their state’s Bar Association. They might start writing “Esq.” or “Esquire” after their name in official or legal documents.
You might think that only certain types of lawyers use the honorary suffix “Esq.” or “Esquire.” There is no evidence of that. Civil and criminal lawyers can use it. Furthermore, an estate planning lawyer may be just as likely to use it as a workers’ compensation attorney.
Is There an Official Term That Means That Someone Is a Lawyer?
Yes and no. If someone uses the suffix “J.D.” after their name, it means that they have earned a Juris Doctor. This degree is awarded only to those who have completed law school.
However, having a J.D. is not enough to practice law in most states. In most cases, someone must pass their state’s Bar Exam before they can practice law. Some states allow occasional exceptions for those who have completed a law degree but haven’t yet passed the Bar, but this is rare.
However, someone who uses “J.D.” after their name is usually a practicing lawyer. Whether to use this suffix or “Esq.” is just a matter of personal taste. Either way, the attorney is indicating the same thing.
Seek Legal Help from a Licensed Attorney
The amusing truth is that “Esquire” is just a fancy way for a lawyer to tell you they are a lawyer. There is no legal requirement to use it; other suffixes like “J.D.” mean the same thing.
Many lawyers like to use “Esquire” since it is traditional and seems prestigious. Others think it sounds a little pompous. They prefer something simpler, like calling themselves “Attorney Jane Smith.”
Therefore, while “Esquire” might tell you a little about a lawyer’s personality, it doesn’t tell you anything about their legal practice. It is important to work with a licensed attorney who has experience handling cases similar to yours.
Contact our Little River Personal Injury Lawyers from Stanley Law Firm for Help Today
For more information, please contact Stanley Law Firm to schedule a free consultation with a personal injury lawyer in Little River, South Carolina, today.
We proudly serve Horry County and its surrounding areas.
Stanley Law Firm – Little River Office
3303 Hwy 9 E
Little River, SC 29566
(843) 390-9111
