IMPORTANT. The best way to file your attorney registration or make address changes is via Attorney Online Services. A holder of a law degree who is also a judge might be addressed "Judge Smith" or even "Your Honor" on formal occasions.Carefully review 22 NYCRR 520.10 before seeking certification and completing and the application. Attorney may ethically use the title "Esq." after his or her name, even when acting in a nonlegal capacity. As commonly used in the United States, the difference between J.D. and Esq. Is the ability to practice law. Once the required period of law office study is completed, the applicant is eligible to apply for the New York State bar examination. Applicants are admitted to the practice of law in New York State through one of the four departments of the Supreme Court Appellate Division.