Law students don’t become lawyers overnight. It takes a structured process that involves ongoing education and very difficult examinations. Law students must also have a lot of practical experience under their belt.
Any law student who wants to add ‘esquire’ after their name must graduate from an accredited law school. They must also pass the bar exam in their home state and get an official license to practice law.
The word ‘esquire’ comes from medieval Europe, originally referring to a squire serving a knight. In the U.S. today, esquire or ‘Esq.’ is an honorary title given to licensed lawyers. To be given this title, law students must:
- Earn a Bachelor’s Degree
Before law students can consider attending law school, they must complete a four-year undergraduate degree. Choosing a specific major is unnecessary, but it counts in a law student’s favor if they choose subjects that help develop critical thinking skills. This is why most law students major in history, political science, business, and criminal justice. Missouri, like all other states, has law schools that do not require a specific major. However, students must achieve a high GPA. They must also have strong writing and analytical skills. These skills will help them gain admission to law school.
- Take the LSAT
When a law student is ready for law school, they must take the Law School Admission Test (LSAT). The standard exam tests each student’s reading comprehension, reasoning, and analytical skills. The LSAT is a major factor in law school admissions. Missouri law schools typically require applicants to submit their LSAT scores. These include the University of Missouri School of Law and Saint Louis University School of Law.
- Attend an Accredited Law School
A law student can only become a licensed attorney in Missouri if they complete a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree. They can only obtain this degree from an American Bar Association-accredited law school. Generally speaking, the program takes three years. Students will get coursework that includes contracts, torts, civil procedure, criminal law, and more. At this point, a student must get practical experience as well. They can do this by participating in internships and legal clinics.
- Pass the Missouri Bar Exam
Earning a J.D. degree is not the end of a law student’s educational road. Graduates must also pass the local Missouri Bar Exam. The Missouri Board of Law Examiners administers this exam, which is called the Uniform Bar Examination.
There are several sections to the bar exam, including:
- The Multistate Bar Examination. This is a 200-question multiple-choice test. It covers all the fundamental legal principles that students must be familiar with.
- The Multistate Essay Examination. This exam is a written test that engages a student’s analytical and reasoning skills.
- The Multistate Performance Test. Students must also take the MPT practical skills test involving legal writing and complicated problem-solving.
- The Missouri Educational Component Test. Another test that students must complete is the MECT. This is a state-specific section that tests students’ knowledge of Missouri law.
It is important to note that the MECT is not part of the Uniform Bar Exam. Instead, it is a separate requirement for bar applicants.
Students can take the bar exam in either February or July. Most students opt for July after graduation.
Pass the MPRE (Multistate Professional Responsibility Examination)
Those who want to pass the bar exam must first pass the MPRE in Missouri. This exam tests each student’s knowledge and understanding of law ethics and professional conduct. It was developed by the National Conference of Bar Examiners (NCBE) and ensures that future licensed lawyers know how to handle their responsibilities ethically.
Complete a Character and Fitness Evaluation
Not everyone can become a lawyer in Missouri (or anywhere else in the U.S.). Law students must have impeccable moral character, be extremely honest, and be fit to practice law. These qualifications are evaluated through a background check conducted by the Missouri Board of Law Examiners. The board reviews each student’s academic and employment history. They also check for criminal records and financial irresponsibility (this could count against students).
Moreover, the board checks that students, including the ones who have graduated, always conduct themselves professionally. If students are dishonest during this process, their licenses could be denied. It does not matter whether they passed all their tests. If they do not disclose past issues, likely, they will not get a license to practice law.
Take the Oath of Admission
Students who pass all tests, including the character and fitness evaluation, will be invited to take the Oath of Admission. This is a ceremony that inducts new attorneys into the Missouri legal profession.
When a student takes the Oath of Admission, they promise to:
- Uphold the U.S. Constitution at all times
- Follow Missouri laws
- Enforce and follow ethical standards
Obtain a Law License
Taking the Oath of Admission also means new lawyers are admitted to the Missouri Bar. They will receive their law licenses and can officially use ‘Esq’ after their names. Several career paths are open to them after being admitted to the bar. New lawyers can apply to work at a law firm of their choice. They can also opt to work for companies or corporations as in-house counsel. Some new lawyers prefer to work in government agencies, while others take on the monumental task of opening a private practice. Whatever option they choose, lawyers must maintain their licenses by completing continuing legal education (CLE) requirements.
How Does Esq. Distinguish New Lawyers?
Esq. is essentially a way to identify licensed lawyers. It does not give them a different legal status but is used in formal correspondence and legal documents. In the U.S., Esq. also means an attorney has fulfilled all the requirements to practice law. This is why Missouri attorneys commonly use this abbreviation to highlight their legal qualifications.
Becoming an Esq. Requires Dedication and Perseverance
Law students have a long road ahead of them when just starting out. But, it all becomes worth it when they can finally add the Esq. behind their name. For everyone considering a career in law, this process will really begin to make sense when they reach licensed attorney status.
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