Dear Qurius,
I quickly enquired into the term esquire, and found some quite
interesting information.
It seems that the origin of the term "esquire" denotes to :
"Originally, a shield-bearer or armor-bearer, an attendant on a
knight; in modern times, a title of dignity next in degree below
knight and above gentleman; also, a title of office and courtesy; --
often shortened to squire" (SOURCE: Wikipedia, Esquire,
<http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Esquire>).
In the UK, it later evolved into way to describe a "a social rank
above that of mere gentleman, allowed, for example, to the sons of
nobles and gentry who did not possess any other title" (ibid).
On the other side of the Atlantic, esquire later described lawyers,
males as well as females (who are obviously not part of the English
use of the term). However, as you've asked - when do they use it?
"Esquire came to indicate occupation, not social status. In the 19th
century it designated a justice of the peace or an associate judge,
and finally was expanded to include lawyers" (SOURCE: Illinois Bar,
Language Tips, <http://www.illinoisbar.org/Association/009-15f.htm>).
Well, apparently, there are no set rules on using this honorary title.
Without going into specific legislation in all 50 states, this title
merely presents one as a lawyer, but is not considered an "earned
degree or title derived therefrom indicating training in the law". In
other words, any lawyer can use the term "esquire" and can use it even
when acting outside their legal capacity.
See:
The Supreme Court of Ohio, BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS ON GRIEVANCES AND
DISCIPLINE, OPINION 91-24, Issued October 18, 1991, [Not Current-
subsequent rule amendments to DR 2-101, eff. Jan. 1, 1993; DR 2-102,
eff. Dec. 1, 1995] <http://www.sconet.state.oh.us/BOC/Advisory_Opinions/1991/Op%2091-024.doc>
(DOC document).
THE ASSOCIATION OF THE BAR OF THE CITY OF NEW YORK , FORMAL OPINION
1994-5, COMMITTEE ON PROFESSIONAL AND JUDICIAL ETHICS, May 5, 1994,
ACTION: FORMAL OPINION
<http://www.abcny.org/Ethics/eth1994-5.htm>
And further interesting reading is the discussion on this blog, on the
pretentiousness in using this title:
The Uncivil Litigator: Esquire
<http://uncivillitigator.blogspot.com/2004/08/esquire.html>
Well, I hope this satisfied your curiousity. However, if you need any
clarification on this answer, please let me know before you rate it. |
