It’s a moment many relish – that little thrill of knowing something others don’t, especially when it involves correcting a common misconception. There’s a certain satisfaction in possessing niche knowledge, a feeling that’s perhaps amplified when you’ve learned it later in life. This brings us to a common point of confusion, particularly within legal circles and higher education: the correct name for a law degree. Is it a Juris Doctor or a Juris Doctorate?
The answer is definitively Juris Doctor (JD). It’s not “juris doctorate.” The term “juris doctorate” is, quite simply, incorrect.
This might seem like a minor point, a mere matter of semantics. However, in the precise world of academia and professional qualifications, accuracy matters. The prevalence of this error is surprisingly widespread. Recently, while involved in hiring processes at a law school, the number of applicants misidentifying their degree as a “juris doctorate” was notable. Even more surprising is that a quick online search for “juris doctorate” reveals multiple law school websites inadvertently using the incorrect term.
So, why the confusion? And why is it important to get it right?
Understanding the Juris Doctor (JD) Degree
The Juris Doctor, often abbreviated as JD, is a professional doctorate degree in law. It is the standard law degree in the United States, Canada, Australia, and many other common law countries. Earning a JD qualifies graduates to sit for the bar exam and practice law.
The term “Juris Doctor” is Latin, meaning “Doctor of Law.” While “doctor” is part of the name, it’s crucial to understand its context. In this case, “doctor” signifies a professional doctorate, distinct from a research doctorate like a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy).
Professional doctorates, like the JD, MD (Doctor of Medicine), and DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery), are designed to prepare graduates for professional practice in a specific field. They emphasize applied knowledge and skills necessary for entry into professions such as law, medicine, and dentistry.
Research doctorates, like the PhD, on the other hand, focus on original research and scholarly contributions to a field of knowledge. PhD holders typically pursue careers in academia, research, or highly specialized roles requiring advanced research skills.
Why “Juris Doctorate” is a Misnomer
The confusion likely arises from the general understanding of “doctorate” as the degree conferred upon completing doctoral studies. Since the JD is indeed a doctoral-level degree, the intuitive, albeit incorrect, leap is to “Juris Doctorate.”
However, “Juris Doctor” is the established and legally recognized name of the degree. “Juris Doctorate” is simply not a recognized academic degree title. Using “Juris Doctorate” is akin to misspelling the name of a degree, and while it might seem like a minor error, it can reflect a lack of attention to detail, especially in professional settings.
The Importance of Precision
In the legal profession, precision in language is paramount. Laws are interpreted based on the exact wording used, and attention to detail is a crucial skill for any lawyer. Therefore, correctly identifying your degree as a Juris Doctor, not Juris Doctorate, demonstrates professionalism and an understanding of academic and professional norms.
While correcting someone on this might feel a little like indulging in that “smug superiority,” it’s ultimately about promoting accuracy and clarity, especially within the legal field. So, the next time you discuss your law degree, or encounter the term, remember: it’s Juris Doctor, and now you know why it matters.
