there are regional differences. i am in DC, all of our pleadings list our names with an ESQ. it is not personal affectation, it is practice. i have seen opposing counsel use THE HONORABLE before their names, instead of using the ESQ. which strikes me as bizarre, but hey. i don't see any pleadings from Texas in my ofc, so i will take your word for it that they would laugh at our little esq's : )
You earned it; you should use it.
I'm sure they sneer at my VCR, too.
Esq. is a courtesy title. It is not earned. Nothing entitles a lawyer to use it, much like nothing compels a lawyer to use it.
Ergo, affectation.
"The Honorable" in Texas only refers to judges.