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The Correct Use of “Esquire” Hero Label

The Correct Use of “Esquire”

graphic: What is the correct use of

“Esquire” is a professional designation in the legal arena—not a social title. When you correspond with a lawyer, you have two choices:

  1. Write the person using a standard courtesy title (“Mr. Robert Jones” or “Ms. Cynthia Adams”)
  2. Skip the courtesy title and put “Esquire” after the name, using its abbreviated form, “Esq.” (“Robert Jones, Esq.” or “Cynthia Adams, Esq.”)

Key Considerations

  • You would never use both the courtesy title (Mr. or Ms.) and the professional designation “Esq.”
  • When writing to a lawyer and his or her spouse, do not use “Esq.” Instead, address the couple using the social form they prefer: “Mr. and Mrs. Robert Jones,”Mr. Robert Jones and Ms. Sarah Stone.”