The Meaning Of “Esquire”

The Review Department of the California State Bar Court has recommended disbarment of an attorney who engaged in unauthorized practice of law while on disciplinary suspension.

The suspended attorney had referred to himself with the honorific “Esq.” and as an attorney on pro se pleadings in court cases. The Review Department rejected his claim that he could do so (and refer to his “Law Offices” ) when representing himself.

He also had represented a corporation while suspended.

The attorney contended that “the word ‘Esquire’ has many meanings, including that of property owner and subscriber to the magazine Esquire.”

 The Review Board called the argument “unconvincing.” When the honorific appears after his name in pleadings and in letters to opposing counsel, it referred to his purported attorney status. (Mike Frisch)