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Simple English definitions for legal terms
Juris Doctor (J.D.)
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A quick definition of Juris Doctor (J.D.):
Juris Doctor (J.D.) is a degree that a person needs to become a lawyer in most states in the United States. It takes three years to complete and covers many different subjects. Before starting J.D. studies, a person needs to have a Bachelor's degree in any subject. After completing the J.D., a person needs to pass the bar exam to become a lawyer. In some states, a person can become a lawyer without going to law school, but this is rare. In most other countries, a person needs to study law at the undergraduate level and then get a shorter master's or doctorate degree to become a lawyer.
A more thorough explanation:
Juris Doctor (J.D.) is a professional degree that is required to practice law in almost all states in the United States. It usually takes three years of study and covers a wide range of subjects as set by the American Bar Association. The J.D. is a professional degree, which means that a student must have a Bachelor's degree in any subject before starting J.D. studies. In order to practice law, a student must complete their J.D. and pass the bar exam.
- John wants to become a lawyer, so he decides to pursue a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree.
- Mary completed her Bachelor's degree in English and then went on to study law, earning her Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree.
These examples illustrate how a student must have a Bachelor's degree before pursuing a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree. They also show that the J.D. is a professional degree that is required to practice law in the United States.