Juris Doctor (J.D.): What It Is and What It Means for Your Legal Career

A Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree is the standard law degree in the United States. It is a graduate-level degree that typically takes three years to complete. Upon completion of a J.D. degree, graduates are eligible to sit for the bar exam in their state. Passing the bar exam and meeting other requirements, such as completing character and fitness checks, typically allows individuals to practice law.