Matthew Mincone | April 1, 2025 | Personal Injury
Individuals with limited exposure to the legal industry often joke about attorneys having their own language. But in many ways, that’s actually true: Lawyers use unique labels and titles to identify themselves and their areas of practice. One of the most well-known titles associated with attorneys is “esquire.”
But what does esquire mean, and more importantly, does it have any bearing on an attorney’s ability to handle your case? Below is a detailed look into the esquire definition and everything else you need to know about the title.
What Is an Esquire?
The word “esquire” first appeared in print in 1475. Originally, it was the title given to a knight’s shield bearer; many esquires aspired to become knights themselves. Several centuries later, the word would come to be used to describe English barristers (those who litigated complex court proceedings) but not solicitors (who typically only handled day-to-day legal tasks).
Eventually, “esquire” made its way to the American legal system, and ever since, thousands of attorneys have adopted the title.
Does “Esquire” Mean “Lawyer”?
There is a common misconception that the definition of an esquire is simply “lawyer,” but that’s not the case. In the modern context, the esquire title is just one of courtesy that is often used to address lawyers in written correspondence. Not all attorneys are esquires, or vice versa.
Do All Attorneys Use the Esquire Title?
It’s up to each lawyer to decide whether they want to use the title of esquire. Not all lawyers choose to do so, but many courts and other entities in the legal industry will still refer to attorneys using the moniker in any formal written correspondence. Referring to an attorney as esquire is not required, though; it is simply common practice.
What Types of Attorneys Can Use “Esquire” In Correspondence?
Attorneys in all practice areas can use the word “esquire” in written correspondence, including those who handle personal injury cases, family law matters, and criminal defense.
However, potential legal clients must realize that the title of “esquire” does not convey any specific information about an attorney’s experience, practice area, or skills. A recently licensed attorney who has just passed the bar exam can refer to themselves as esquire, as can a lawyer who has just switched to a new practice area.
If you are looking for an attorney, you must do your research to determine whether they are a proper choice to handle your legal matter. Read testimonials and learn about their case results to evaluate their experience.
Who Else Can Give Themselves the Title of Esquire?
Technically, people who are not attorneys can use the title, but it’s important to be cautious of the context of the communication when a non-lawyer uses it, as doing so to misrepresent oneself as a licensed attorney can lead to civil and criminal repercussions.
A Licensed Attorney Can Help With Your Case
In most cases, it doesn’t really matter if an attorney uses the title of esquire. If you need legal services, you should primarily focus on factors such as the attorney’s results, reputation, and practice area. Start by identifying the type of attorney you need; if you get hurt at work and want to know if you can file a claim against your attorney. For example, you’ll need to talk to a lawyer who handles workplace accident claims.
Ultimately, the right attorney can help you navigate complex legal proceedings and protect your rights as you pursue fair compensation, regardless of whether they refer to themselves as “esquire.”
Contact the Tampa Personal Injury Lawyers at Mincone Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Tampa, FL, contact our skilled personal injury lawyers at Mincone Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation.
We proudly serve Hillsborough County and its surrounding areas:
Mincone Personal Injury Lawyers
1925 E 6th Ave Ste 10
Tampa, FL 33605
(813) 800-0810
About The Author
Attorney Matthew Mincone is the founder of Mincone Personal Injury Lawyers. He earned his law degree while attending night programs in New York and is licensed to practice in Florida. With over 15 years of legal experience, Matthew focuses on personal injury cases, including motor vehicle accidents involving cars, commercial trucks, and motorcycles. His commitment to personally handling each case ensures clients receive dedicated representation. Click here to view some of the remarkable case results that Matthew has successfully achieved.
Location: Tampa, FL
