Malcolm L. MacGregor | October 7, 2025 | Personal Injury Blog

What Does Esquire Mean?

The word “Esquire,” often shortened to “Esq.,” works as a courtesy title in the legal world. Many people see it after a lawyer’s name, yet few know where it comes from or why attorneys use it. The title carries a long history that stretches back centuries. 

It moved from a symbol of class rank to a professional marker for licensed attorneys. Today, it serves as a formal way to show that a person has the authority to practice law.

The History Behind the Title Esquire

The term “Esquire” originates from the Old French word “escuyer,” meaning “shield bearer.” In medieval England, it referred to a young nobleman serving a knight before earning knighthood. Over time, it evolved to signify men of social standing just below knights, symbolizing respect and status.

As centuries passed, the title’s use expanded beyond nobility to professional circles, particularly law. By the time English legal traditions reached America, “Esquire” had become a formal title of respect used to identify licensed attorneys.

How Lawyers Use the Title Esquire Today

In the United States, “Esquire” signals that a person has a law license. The abbreviation “Esq.” placed after a lawyer’s name confirms their status as an attorney. You will see it in correspondence, signatures, and legal records. 

For the public, it marks a lawyer as someone who passed the bar exam and holds approval to practice law. A lawyer usually adopts the title after graduating from law school, passing the state bar exam, and securing admission to the bar. 

The process involves education, testing, and adherence to the ethical rules of the profession. Only after those steps does an attorney attach “Esquire” to their name.

The word “Esquire” differs from formal academic or official titles. For example, “Juris Doctor” reflects completion of a law degree. The word “Judge” marks someone who holds a judicial office. “Professor of Law” identifies a teacher of law at a university. 

Each of those titles signals a specific role, achievement, or position. “Esquire” does not identify rank or expertise. Instead, it works as a courtesy title that attaches to the name of a licensed lawyer. It does not measure years of practice, reputation, or specialization. 

A newly admitted attorney and a lawyer with decades of service both qualify to use the same title.

Why Attorneys Use Esquire After Their Names

Lawyers attach “Esquire” to their names for professional identity. It signals to the public, clients, and courts that they hold a license to practice law. It also reminds both the lawyer and the client of the duties that come with that license. The title marks accountability, ethical responsibility, and respect for the law.

Clients often look for trust when they hire a lawyer. The use of “Esquire” may appear small, yet it supports credibility. It shows that the lawyer follows professional norms and takes the role seriously. The detail communicates qualification without explanation.

You will often encounter “Esquire” in written communication. Letters, emails, or legal pleadings usually display it after a lawyer’s name. Business cards and firm websites also include it to mark professional status. 

It works as a formal touch that tells clients and colleagues that the person is a licensed attorney.

Schedule a Consultation With a Personal Injury Attorney

If someone else’s carelessness caused your injury, you have the right to ask questions and seek guidance from a lawyer. A good law firm helps clients with personal injury claims and guides them through the legal process. 

Call McDonald & MacGregor, LLC to learn more. We’ll review your case, explain your options, and pursue fair compensation for your losses.

Schedule a free case evaluation with our team today. We proudly serve Scranton, Wilkes-Barre, Hazleton, Luzerne County, Lackawanna County, and surrounding areas.

McDonald & MacGregor, LLC
220 Penn Ave Suite 320, Scranton, PA 18503
(570) 209-7062