When may a law student use the degree abbreviation in their signature?

A law student generally should not use the degree abbreviation (e.g., J.D. Candidate, J.D.) in their signature until they have actually received their Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree.

Using the abbreviation before graduation implies a level of legal competence and authority that they do not yet possess. It can be misleading and potentially unethical.

Once the student has graduated and been formally awarded the J.D. degree, then they may use the abbreviation in their signature.