Many attorneys use the suffix “Esq.” after their own names. Yet that title actually is a term of respect for others; attorneys should not use it for themselves. In other words, "Esq." is a title of courtesy.
Granted, it has become commonplace for attorneys to sign court documents and correspondence with the “Esq.” suffix. They use it even on their business cards—often despite the presence of an obvious law firm name or the phrase “Attorneys at Law.” Just beware that some may consider its personal use improper or, worse, pretentious.
Granted, it has become commonplace for attorneys to sign court documents and correspondence with the “Esq.” suffix. They use it even on their business cards—often despite the presence of an obvious law firm name or the phrase “Attorneys at Law.” Just beware that some may consider its personal use improper or, worse, pretentious.