みなさん こんにちは、Hi everyone!
I’m having trouble getting a clear answer on this despite a lot of searching on the web.
I’m trying to understand how best to address a Japanese attorney.…
+When emailing them
+Over the phone/in-person
+Before you know their name, and after you know their name
I would be a potential client.
My understanding is in business context, it’s best to address all business counterparts with さん (san). However, I am a bit confused because I’m reading that certain professions (possibly including lawyers?) can be addressed as せんせい (sensei). And on top of that I’ve also read that in business contexts it may even be okay to address everyone as さま(sama), but I thought that was only how you would address your own customer!
And in an email, how would I start it?(e.g. in English I would start an email with “Dear ______,”)
Any help and clarity would be greatly appreciated!