What Does Esquire Mean?
You may have seen the term “Esquire” but not realized what it meant. Or, you may have noticed this notation or the shortened version “Esq.” after a lawyer’s name on their business card. Here, we dive into the esq. meaning and what it might mean for your legal case.
What Is an Esquire?
To define esquire, we can look to Merriam Webster. The dictionary’s definition is a word that is “used as a title of courtesy, often by attorneys, usually placed in its abbreviated form after the surname.” Esq. is essentially an abbreviation for lawyers. This term is used in many countries, including the United States and Canada.
The term “esquire” generally denotes a lawyer who has been duly admitted to the bar in their area, is currently practicing law, and can represent clients in court. You may notice this term or its abbreviation in formal records, such as on a lawyer’s letterhead that states John R. Smith, Esq. It is also sometimes used in law firms.
Where Does the Word Esquire Come From?
The meaning of esquire today differs significantly from its original definition and use. The term dates back to the late 14th century from the Old French term escuier, which meant “shield-bearer,” which was an attendant young man in training to be a knight.
Esquires were at the feudal rank below a knight. However, today, it can be used as a title of courtesy for practicing lawyers.
How Does Someone Obtain an Esquire Title?
As noted above, lawyers who use the title “esquire” are generally practicing attorneys. Becoming a practicing attorney usually requires graduation from law school, passing the Bar, passing an ethics exam, passing a background check that confirms the applicant’s sufficient moral character to practice law, and being admitted to practice law in a specific jurisdiction.
After attorneys complete all of these steps, there is a swearing-in ceremony, formally recognizing their newly obtained status and having the lawyers recite an oath to uphold their duties honorably.
When Should I Contact an Attorney?
You can contact an attorney using the title esquire any time that you encounter a legal problem that you need assistance with. For personal injury matters, consider hiring a lawyer if:
- You suffered serious injuries due to someone else’s negligence.
- The case involves complex legal issues, such as those involving dangerous products or truck accidents.
- You lost a loved one in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence.
- The insurance company has denied your claim or offered you a lowball settlement.
- You need assistance with your medical claim so you can focus on your healing.
A compassionate personal injury lawyer can review the circumstances of your case, inform you of your legal rights, investigate your accident, and fight for full and fair financial compensation.
Contact a Personal Injury Attorney for a Free Consultation
If you have been injured in an accident that wasn’t your fault, an experienced personal injury attorney can help you throughout the entire legal process. While lawyers aren’t required to use the title “esquire,” many choose to do so to indicate their professional status. Get in touch with an attorney for a free consultation today to learn about your legal rights and options.
Contact our Denver Personal Injury Attorneys at Zaner Law Personal Injury Lawyers at (720) 613 9706
For more information, please contact the Denver personal injury lawyers at Zaner Law Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free initial consultation with a personal injury lawyer.
We are located in Denver, CO, and proudly serve all of Denver County.
Zaner Law Personal Injury Lawyers
1610 Wynkoop Street, Suite 120.
Denver, CO 80202
(720) 613 9706
Find us with our Geocoordinates: 39.75208145814397, -105.00017355026108
About The Author
Kurt Zaner has earned national recognition for his innovative legal strategies, securing some of the largest verdicts in Colorado. He assists injured clients in Denver with personal injury cases, including car accidents, truck accidents, wrongful death, motorcycle accidents, and more. Click here to view some of the fantastic case results that Zaner Law has successfully handled.
Location: Denver, CO
