Mayfield Law, LLC | March 11, 2025 | Personal Injury
The term “esquire” is a professional title. It is commonly associated with attorneys in the United States and used as a designation after their names to show that they are licensed to practice law. Despite being most prevalent in the legal profession, the term has historical roots that date back centuries through European history.
The Historical Meaning of Esquire
The meaning of Esquire has evolved over time. The term was first used in England as a rank of social distinction, referring to men of higher status, such as knights and noblemen. It eventually became associated with people who performed services for the monarchy, including lawyers. The word itself is derived from the Latin scutarius, meaning shield-bearer, signifying a rank below that of a knight. It is rarely used with this meaning in mind today.
What Is an Esquire in Georgia?
An esquire in Georgia is simply a person who has been admitted to practice law in the state. The title is not a degree or certification but rather an informal designation that shows a lawyer’s professional status. Anyone who has passed the Georgia bar exam and obtained a law license can use esquire, which is commonly abbreviated as Esq.
Personal injury lawyers are examples of esquires. They can help with various cases, including car accidents, slip and falls accidents, construction accidents, or even wrongful death cases.
The duties of an esquire may also encompass a few other roles, such as:
- Representing clients in litigation proceedings, arbitrations, or mediations
- Researching and drafting legal documents, motions, and other pleadings in litigation
- Providing legal advice to clients who are involved in personal injury cases and other matters
- Supervising other attorneys, paralegals, and support staff
- Managing administrative tasks such as billing and client communication.
Many esquires work in settings across the public, private, and non-profit sectors.
Is Using Esquire Required for Attorneys in Georgia?
Attorneys commonly use esquire, but it is not a requirement. Some lawyers choose to use the designation in their professional communications, while others prefer to be addressed as attorneys or with their names. Using the term is a purely personal choice.
What Is the Difference Between Esq. and J.D.?
A common point of confusion is the difference between Esq. and J.D., which is short for juris doctor. A juris doctor is a degree that signifies a person has completed law school, while esq. is a title used after passing the bar exam and receiving a law license. All lawyers hold a J.D., but not all law school graduates are officially licensed to practice law.
Esquire and Unauthorized Practice of Law in Georgia
Using Esq. in professional settings is strictly reserved for licensed attorneys, and misusing the title can have consequences. Unauthorized use of esquire may be considered the unauthorized practice of law in Georgia, which is prohibited under state law. The State Bar of Georgia defines the unauthorized practice of law as providing legal services without a valid license. This includes falsely representing oneself as an attorney.
Georgia law imposes strict penalties on individuals caught practicing law without authorization, including potential civil and criminal charges. Clients seeking legal assistance in Georgia should verify that they are speaking with a licensed attorney. This helps you make sure that you are receiving legitimate and qualified legal advice.
Injured? Contact a Georgia Personal Injury Lawyer Today
Understanding what esquire means is important for those working in the legal field and people interacting with attorneys. The title signifies that an individual is licensed to practice law. If you require legal assistance, working with an esquire can give you confidence that you are receiving legitimate, qualified legal advice.
If you or a loved one has been injured, contact a Georgia personal injury lawyer today. They can help you recover compensation for damages after an accident, including compensation for medical bills, lost wages, or pain and suffering. Schedule your free consultation today.
For more information, contact Mayfield Law, LLC to schedule a free consultation with our experienced personal injury attorneys. We proudly serve clients in Brunswick, GA, Nahunta, GA, as well as Glynn County and Brantley County. We’re here to offer trusted, compassionate legal guidance. Let us help you navigate the legal process and secure the compensation you deserve.
Mayfield Law, LLC Brunswick
1611 Union St
Brunswick, GA 31520
(912) 457-8557
Mayfield Law, LLC Nahunta
13903 E Cleveland St
Nahunta, GA 31553
(912) 457-8557