Jared J. Pehrson | January 8, 2025

What Is the Definition of Esquire?

Many attorneys use the title “Esquire” after their names. This special title has a long history in the legal world. Many people wonder what it means and why lawyers use it.

This blog discusses the historical origins of “Esquire,” the evolution of the title through history, and its modern usage. 

The Historical Origins of Esquire

The word “Esquire” (often written as “Esq.”) comes from old England during the Middle Ages. It originated from the French word “escuyer” and the Latin word “scutarius,” meaning “shield bearer.” These esquires were young men of noble birth who served as apprentices to knights, carrying their shields and weapons while learning the arts of chivalry and warfare.

In medieval society, esquires held a rank above gentlemen but below knights. They performed various duties beyond shield-bearing, including:

  • Managing the knight’s household and estates
  • Training in combat and military strategy
  • Serving as diplomatic messengers between nobles
  • Maintaining the knight’s weapons and armor

These responsibilities helped prepare esquires for their potential future roles as knights.

Evolution of the Title Through History

By the 1300s, “Esquire” evolved into a broader title of respect for English landowners and civil servants. The title became particularly associated with justices of the peace and other legal administrators. This connection to law and governance strengthened over centuries, especially as the legal profession grew more formalized.

Today in America, “Esquire” has a very specific meaning. Only lawyers who have passed the bar exam can use this title. The bar exam is a comprehensive test that lawyers must pass before practicing law. When you see “Esquire” or “Esq.” after someone’s name, it means they passed this test and can legally work as an attorney.

The contemporary use of “Esquire” carries several important implications for the legal profession. Understanding these implications helps clarify the title’s significance:

  • It shows that someone completed law school and passed the bar exam
  • Both men and women lawyers can use it
  • It helps clients know who is qualified to practice law

These professional implications distinguish “Esquire” from other legal titles and credentials.

Professional Rules and Requirements

Many people think that a law degree alone makes someone an attorney. But that’s not true. A law degree shows that someone finished law school. The title “Esquire” means they also passed the bar exam and can actually practice law. Some people finish law school but work in business or teaching instead. They don’t use “Esquire” because they aren’t practicing attorneys.

The American Bar Association makes rules about how lawyers should use professional titles. Using “Esquire” when you’re not a real attorney can get you in trouble. It’s like pretending to be a doctor when you’re not one. Each state has its own rules about how lawyers should use their titles.

Common Misconceptions About the Title

People often misunderstand what the title “Esquire” means and how it should be used. The following misconceptions frequently create confusion about the title:

  • That legal assistants and paralegals can use it (they can’t)
  • That all lawyers must use it (they don’t have to)
  • That it means the same thing in all countries (it doesn’t)
  • That it’s just a fancy word with no real meaning (it has legal importance)

Understanding these misconceptions helps prevent confusion about who can legitimately use the title.

These days, attorneys use “Esquire” in new ways. You might see it in email signatures or on social media profiles. Law firms often have special rules about when their lawyers should use the title online. Some attorneys today choose not to use “Esquire.” They might think it sounds too formal or old-fashioned. But many still use it, especially in official papers and formal letters.

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