In most situations, refer to an attorney as “Mr.” or “Ms.” When addressing an attorney in a letter or email, use “Mr.” or “Ms.” followed by their last name, just as you would with any other respectable professional. When writing about a legal issue, use the courtesy title “Esquire.” Traditionally, you would only address an attorney with this courtesy title if you were writing to them regarding a matter they were representing. Instead of “Esquire,” use “Attorney at Law.” If you find using the courtesy title “Esquire” stuffy, “Attorney at Law” also conveys the same degree of respect and distinction. In a formal situation, follow an attorney’s name with “JD.” Even if the attorney is admitted to practice law, you’ll normally use “JD” rather than “Esquire” if they contribute to a legal magazine or serve as a law lecturer.