Baronet

A baronetcy is an hereditary dignity, the holder of which is accorded the prefix of 'Sir' and the suffix of 'Baronet' to his name. The suffix is abbreviated in correspondence, usually to 'Bt', but the more old-fashioned 'Bart' is still sometimes used.

Many Scottish baronets use their territorial titles in conjunction with their surnames. In this case 'Bt' should appear at the end, eg Sir Archibald Grant of Monymusk, Bt.

Ecclesiastical, armed forces and ambassadorial ranks should precede Sir: for example, The Rev Sir John Brown.

A baronet who is also a Privy Counsellor is styled The Rt Hon Sir John Brown - the letters PC are unnecessary since the Rt Hon is sufficient indication. All other letters after the name follow 'Bt':

Lt-Gen Sir John Brown, Bt, KCB, CBE, DSO
The Rev Sir John Brown, Bt, DCL

In social usage it is not uncommon to combine styles emanating from other sources with titles conferred by the Sovereign (eg Alderman Sir John Smith and Professor Sir William Brown), although this practice is deprecated by purists.

How to address a Baronet

The recommended (social) style of address is as follows:

Beginning of letter	Dear Sir John
End of letter	Yours sincerely
Envelope	Sir John Brown, Bt
Joint form of address	Sir John and Lady Brown
Verbal communication	Sir John (or Sir John Brown if distinction is necessary, or on introduction)
Invitation/Joint invitation*	Sir John Brown/Sir John and Lady Brown
Description in conversation	Sir John Brown
List of Directors or Patrons	Sir John Brown
Place card	Sir John Brown
Legal document	Sir John Brown Baronet

*Note that, traditionally, invitations to a married couple, when sent to their home address, are addressed to the wife alone, with both names being inscribed on the invitation card. It has become increasingly acceptable, however, to address the envelope with both names.