What does Esquire mean?

By Matt Lalande in Articles, Hamilton Law Firm, Hamilton Lawyer, Hamilton Personal Injury Lawyer on November 07, 2022

What does Esquire mean?

You may have seen the term “Esquire” used after a personal injury lawyer‘s name or seen the initials “Esq.” on a  lawyer’s business card or website, but what does it mean? The title “esquire” is used for lawyers in many countries, including Canada and the United States and can only be used by attorneys who have been duly admitted to the bar in their area. There are different types of esquires working in different areas of the law, including personal injury law, disability law and car accident law.

The origin of the title “Esquire”

While the precise origin of the word is uncertain, we do know that it has been in use in England since at least the 14th century. In its early use, “esquire” simply meant “shield-bearer” or “attendant,” and was used to refer to men-at-arms who served knights. Over time, the word came to be associated with upper-class status, and by the 17th century, “esquire” was being used as a courtesy title for gentlemen of high social rank.

Today, “esquire” is a title that can be used by both lawyers and non-lawyers but is most commonly used by lawyers. The title is often used interchangeably with “Attorney” or “Lawyer” but there is a significant difference between the three that’s often overlooked. A lawyer is anyone who has graduated from law school, while an attorney is a lawyer who have been admitted to practice in their jurisdiction and have the additional designation of esquire.

Using Esquire in communication

In a business setting, esquire is often used as a title for someone who is an attorney or car accident lawyer. However, it can also generally refer to any professional person, such as a doctor or accountant. In a personal setting, esquire can be used as a courteous way to address someone, particularly if you don’t know their name. It can also be used to describe someone’s occupation, as in “the esquire next door is a car accident lawyer.” Whether you’re in a business or personal situation, using esquire correctly can help you make a good impression and show that you’re polite and professional.

Using the word “esquire” in written communication can be helpful in conveying a professional tone. The word is often used to denote someone who is an attorney or lawyer. When used in this context, it can help to set a formal tone and convey a sense of authority. In addition, using “esquire” can help to create a more personal connection with the reader. By using this term, you are indicating that you are willing to engage in a professional relationship with the person you are communicating with. As a result, using “esquire” in written communication can be a helpful way to establish a rapport with the reader.

How does someone become an Esquire in Canada?

In Canada, the term esquire is used to designate a person who holds a specific legal status. Historically, the term was used to refer to someone who had the ability to bear arms or someone who held a position of nobility, but today, the term esquire is most commonly used in Canada to refer to lawyers. To become an esquire in Canada means to become a lawyer, which requires a number of steps:

Education – the licensing process is overseen by the Federation of Law Societies of Canada, and there are two main routes that prospective lawyers can take in order to be licensed. The first route is to complete a Juris Doctor (JD) degree at an accredited law school. Alternatively, prospective lawyers can complete a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree before taking the National Committee on Accreditation’s Common-law Accreditation Exam.

Licencing – after completing a law degree, the next step is to obtain a license to practice law in Canada. The licensing process varies from province to province but generally includes passing a bar exam. After passing these exams, individuals are then required to complete a period of articling – which entails working under the supervision of a licensed lawyer – before being granted a full licence to practise law in Canada.

Call to the Bar – After obtaining a license to practice law, the next step is to “call to the bar.” This is a formal ceremony in which lawyers swear an oath and are formally admitted to the legal profession. Once someone has been called to the bar, they are officially an esquire in Canada. Those who have been appointed as Queens Counsel or Senior Counsel can use the title of esquire indefinitely. For all other lawyers, the title esquire must be renewed every five years.

What are the responsibilities of a lawyer or an “esquire” ?

The responsibilities of an esquire vary depending on the jurisdiction in which they practice law. However, esquires are typically responsible for representing clients in legal proceedings, researching and drafting legal documents, and providing legal advice to clients.

Esquires may also be responsible for supervising junior lawyers and paralegals, as well as handling administrative tasks such as billing and client communication. Esquires typically work in private law firms, but may also work in government agencies or corporations. Some esquires may also choose to specialize in a particular area of law, such as criminal law, personal injury law or disability law.

When should you hire a lawyer or an “esquire“?

You should hire an esquire when you need legal assistance with a matter that is outside of your area of expertise. Esquires can also represent you in court or help you to negotiate a settlement with the other parties involved in your case. with out firm, you might want to reach our with our personal injury or disability lawyers in the event of:

• a serious car accident
• a serious trucking accident
• a serious motorcycle accident
• if you or a loved were hit by a car while walking
• a serious bicycle accident
• if you have been denied your short term disability
• if you have been denied long-term disability
• if your loved one has been killed in an accident
• if you were terminated from your job
• if you are a beneficiary and you have been denied a life insurance policy
• if you are a beneficiary and you have been denied an accidental death payout
• if you suffered critical illness and you have been denied a payment

Different legal abbreviations in Canada

For those seeking legal services in Canada, it is important to know the difference between the various titles and abbreviations that lawyers use. The abbreviations behind a lawyer’s name will tell you what level of education they have, what area of law they practice and whether they are licensed to practice in more than one province.

• “attorney” (abbreviated “ATT.” or “LIC” for a licensed attorney) is reserved for lawyers who have been called to the bar in Canada. In other words, they have met the educational requirements and passed the Bar Exam. Attorneys serve many purposes, including representing clients in court, drawing up legal documents, and providing legal advice.
• “barrister and solicitor” (abbreviated “B.A.” or “LIC.” for a licensed barrister and solicitor) is a term used to describe a lawyer who has been called to the bar in more than one province. In order to be a barrister and solicitor, lawyers must complete additional training and pass exams in the province(s) in which they wish to practise.
• “counsel” (abbreviated “COUNS.”) is a term used to describe a lawyer who has been appointed as Queens Counsel or Senior Counsel. This is a prestigious title that is reserved for experienced lawyers who have made significant contributions to the legal profession.
• “solicitor” (abbreviated “SOL.” or “LIC.” for a licensed solicitor) is a term used to describe a lawyer who has been called to the bar in only one province. In order to be a solicitor, lawyers must complete additional training and pass exams in the province in which they wish to practise.
• “notary public” (abbreviated “NP.”) is a term used to describe a lawyer who has been appointed as a notary public. This is a government-appointed position that allows lawyers to witnessed the signing of documents and administer oaths.
• “certified specialist” (abbreviated “CS.”) is a term used to describe a lawyer who has been certified by the Law Society of their province as a specialist in a particular area of law. For example, a lawyer may be certified as a specialist in family law or criminal law.

When choosing a lawyer, it is important to ensure that they have the appropriate qualifications and experience for your particular legal needs. It’s important to decide who will best represent you by considering factors such as their area of law, their location, experience and track record.

Contact our Hamilton Personal Injury Lawyers today for your Free Consultation

Lalande Personal Injury Lawyers is a personal injury and disability law firm who have been serving victims of car accidents in the Hamilton community since 2003. If you have been seriously injured in a car accident, call us today. Our Hamilton personal injury lawyers have been helping accident victims seek the compensation they deserve for over 15 years.

We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that a car accident can take on a victim and their family. Our esquires will work tirelessly to ensure that you receive the maximum compensation possible for your injuries. We offer free consultations, so call us today to schedule a meeting with one of our esquires.

Our consultations are 100% free – and if you decide to work with our Hamilton disability lawyers, the fee is free. We do not charge our clients anything unless we win their case. We are happy to provide you the legal advice you need in order for you to make an informed decision about your own particular situation.

Call us no matter where you are in Ontario at 1-844-LALANDE or local in the Southern Ontario region at 905-333-8888. Alternatively, you can send us a confidential email through our website – and we would be happy to explain your long-term disability rights and legal options to you, at no cost.