Correct use of Esq

[MrsF]

In the UK this is considered be an outdated form, but if you are writing to older people of some status, and they use it themselves, then its only polite to reciprocate.

In the USA it is indeed used by Barristers / Attorneys at Law, but primarily in email communication as a "short form". There is an equally spirited debate in similar forums to this about its appropriateness in modern times, and as some have already commented, even in the States, its considered to be pompous if used by the writer that feels they own such an appellation! Even more curious - as I have recently discovered in communication with such a person, is the use of Esq. after the name of a woman ! as in Mary James Esq.