What is an esquire? In medieval England, “esquire” was used to refer to a social rank below a knight but above a gentleman. In the United States, the term refers to a licensed attorney. Some people also use the post-nominal title “Esq.” as an abbreviation for a lawyer.
The important point is that “esquire” refers only to a licensed attorney.
The Path To Becoming a Lawyer in the U.S.
U.S. universities, unlike most of their overseas counterparts, do not offer an undergraduate major in law. Instead, you can major in whatever interests you. After graduating with a bachelor’s degree, you must take the Law School Admission Test (LSAT), which tests aptitude for the study of law.
You are free to apply to nearly 200 ABA-accredited U.S. law schools. After graduating from law school, you might properly refer to yourself as a lawyer, as long as it is clear that you do not have a license to practice law independently.
You can perform legal tasks, such as drafting a contract, under the supervision of a licensed lawyer. You cannot, however, represent a client in court.
The Journey To Becoming a Licensed Attorney
Once you graduate from law school, you can embark on your journey toward licensing and the coveted “esquire” title. Your first step is to take and pass the Multistate Professional Responsibility Exam (MPRE). The MPRE tests your grasp of legal ethics.
You will also have to suffer through an investigation of your moral character and fitness conducted by the local bar association. Finally, you will have to take and pass the state bar examination in the state where you choose to practice. In Idaho, the bar exam lasts two days.
Once you pass the bar exam, the state bar will swear you in as a licensed attorney. You can then begin using the term “esquire” if you so desire. As a licensed attorney, you can practice any type of law except for certain restricted specialties such as patent law. You’ll typically be able to hold yourself out as an Esquire at this point.
The Misuse of the Term “Esquire” and Its Consequences
Using the title “Esquire” or the abbreviation “Esq.” to falsely suggest that you are a licensed attorney can carry severe consequences. Misrepresenting yourself in this way may result in criminal charges for the unauthorized practice of law, potentially leading to fines or even imprisonment.
State bar associations and consumer protection agencies can impose monetary penalties, while courts may issue injunctions prohibiting you from using the title. If you falsely present yourself as an attorney in court, you risk being held in contempt, which may involve additional fines or jail time.
You could also face civil fraud claims if someone suffers harm by relying on your misrepresentation. Penalties vary depending on the facts of each case, but the risks are significant.
Do You Need a Personal Injury Attorney?
Personal injury lawyers handle almost every type of injury case, from slip and fall accidents to motorcycle accidents to dog bites. If you suffered an injury in Idaho Falls, Idaho, that you believe might be someone else’s fault, you need to fully understand the value of your claim, and you need to move quickly.
Contact the Personal Injury Lawyers at Parker & McConkie Today
For more information, please contact an experienced personal injury lawyer at Parker & McConkie Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free initial consultation today. We have 5 convenient locations in Utah, including Midvale, Salt Lake City, Ogden & Provo, UT. Clients can also visit our offices in Idaho Falls, ID & Rock Springs, WY.
We proudly serve Weber County, Utah County, Salt Lake County in Utah, Bonneville County in Idaho, Sweetwater County in Wyoming, and their surrounding areas:
Parker & McConkie Personal Injury Lawyers – Salt Lake City Office
466 S. 500 E., Suite 100,
Salt Lake City, UT 84102
(801) 851-1202
Hours: 24/7
Parker & McConkie Personal Injury Lawyers – Midvale Office
7090 Union Park Ave, #160,
Midvale, UT 84047
(801) 845-0440
Hours: 24/7
Parker & McConkie Personal Injury Lawyers – Ogden Office
2510 S Washington Blvd, Suite 160,
Ogden, UT 84401
(385) 402-8187
Hours: 24/7
Parker & McConkie Personal Injury Lawyers – Provo Office
37 E Center St, Suite 300,
Provo, UT 84606
(801) 876-4107
Hours: 24/7
Parker & McConkie Personal Injury Lawyers – Rock Springs Office
531 N Front St,
Rock Springs, WY 82901
(307) 205-7400
Hours: 24/7
Parker & McConkie Personal Injury Lawyers – Idaho Falls Office
2235 East 25th St. Suite #280,
Idaho Falls, ID 83404
(208) 418-0633
Hours: 24/7
