If you’ve dealt with lawyers, read legal documents, or seen attorney business cards, you may have noticed the word “Esquire” or the letters “Esq.” after someone’s name. This term often appears in legal contexts, but if you’re not familiar with it, you might wonder what it means. Understanding this title can help you feel more informed when choosing a lawyer or reviewing documents related to your case.
Esquire isn’t limited to personal injury lawyers. Attorneys in many different fields use it. However, if you’ve been injured in an accident and are looking for legal help, you may see the word “Esquire” appear after the names of the lawyers you consider hiring. Knowing what this title represents can give you more confidence as you move forward with your claim.
The Origin of the Title “Esquire”
The word “esquire” has old roots. It comes from medieval Europe, where it once described a man who belonged to a certain social class — often one who served a knight or was training to become one. Over time, the meaning changed. In the United States, “Esquire” took on a different role: it became a title or honor for people who practice law.
In modern times, “Esq.” doesn’t mean the person using it is part of a social class. Instead, it generally indicates that this individual is a licensed attorney.
What “Esquire” Means Today
When you see “Esquire” or “Esq.” after a person’s name, it means that the person is a lawyer. They have gone through law school, passed their state’s bar exam, and are allowed to practice law in that state. Lawyers might use “Esquire” on their business cards, in their email signatures, or when signing legal letters and documents.
This title helps set lawyers apart from people who may have studied law but never got a license to practice or those who have a law degree but do not represent clients. In other words, “Esq.” is a shorthand way of saying, “I am a licensed attorney.”
Does “Esquire” Have Legal Power?
The word “Esquire” does not confer any special powers or privileges on its own. It is not a requirement for lawyers to use it. Some lawyers choose not to include “Esq.” after their name at all. Whether a lawyer uses this title or not does not affect their ability to represent you, negotiate with insurance companies, or argue your case in court.
For you as a client, the title itself doesn’t ensure the lawyer is skilled or experienced. Instead, it simply confirms that this person is a licensed attorney. You’ll still need to consider their experience, track record, and whether you feel comfortable working with them on your case.
Why Do Lawyers Use “Esquire”?
Many lawyers use “Esq.” or “Esquire” as a professional courtesy. It sets them apart as licensed legal professionals and can add a sense of formality to their communications. In some cases, it’s simply a tradition within the legal community. Attorneys might use “Esquire” to show respect for their profession’s history and standards.
Seeing “Esq.” can be helpful for people outside the legal world. It lets you know at a glance that the person you’re dealing with has the training and license to practice law. If you receive a letter signed by someone with “Esquire” after their name, it’s likely an official legal communication you should take seriously.
If you’ve been injured in an accident and need legal advice, consider reaching out to a personal injury lawyer in Dallas. They can explain your rights, help you understand what types of damages you can recover — both economic and non-economic — and guide you through the legal process.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer at Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers Today
If you were injured in an accident in St. Louis due to someone else’s careless or negligent actions, contact an experienced St. Louis personal injury lawyer to discuss your case. Your attorney will fight for fair compensation, and they don’t get paid unless you win.
For more information, contact the attorneys at Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers we proudly serve all throughout Missouri, including St. Louis County, and we have offices in St. Louis, Chesterfield, Clayton, and Creve Coeur.
Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers – St. Louis Office
1010 Market Street, Suite 1605
St. Louis, Missouri
(636) 519-0085
Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers – Chesterfield Office
400 Chesterfield Center Suite 400
Chesterfield, MO 63017
(636) 999-9587
Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers – Creve Coeur Office
11628 Old Ballas Rd, Suite 320
Creve Coeur, MO 63141
(314) 557-2869
Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers – Clayton Office
7733 Forsyth Blvd, Suite 1100
Clayton, MO 63105
(314) 804-4569
