For a first email, use a respectful, reasonably formal greeting. “Dear Attorney [Last Name]” is one suitable choice; if you do not know which title the recipient prefers, “Hello [Full Name]” or “Good morning” avoids guessing. Spell the name correctly, then follow the attorney’s lead in later messages.
What should you write in the greeting?
The American Bar Association’s guide for law students lists “Attorney [name]” as an appropriate title for attorneys. You can write, for example, “Dear Attorney Rivera,” when you know the person’s last name. A title such as Mr., Ms., Mx., or Dr. can also work when you know it fits the recipient’s identity and preference.
If you are unsure which title to use, choose a neutral greeting such as “Hello Jordan Lee” or “Good morning.” The ABA guide also recommends a general greeting when the sender does not know the recipient’s gender identification. Do not guess a title or pronouns.
How formal should the email be?
In a first email, err on the side of formality. The ABA’s professional-relationships guidance recommends a formal salutation initially, then taking cues from the recipient’s response. Formality depends on the relationship: first-name address may suit colleagues and clients unless they ask otherwise, while a formal tone is generally appropriate with opposing counsel.
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Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →These are etiquette recommendations, not a universal legal rule. If the attorney’s email signature or direct instructions show a preferred form of address, follow that preference.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Should you use “Esq.”?
There is no need to add “Esq.” to the greeting based on the guidance cited here. The ABA sources covered do not establish that it is required or set a universal convention for using it. A clear greeting using the attorney’s preferred title or full name is sufficient.
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How do you make the rest of the email professional?
- Use a clear subject line. State the purpose of your message so the attorney can identify it quickly.
- Keep the message focused. Explain why you are writing and what response or next step you need.
- Check the name. Confirm the spelling before sending.
- Use a professional tone. Start formally with an unfamiliar attorney and adjust only if their response or instructions indicate a different preference.
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