Layers can be some of the dumbest fucks in existence. A degree means ZERO...
A JD is different as it is required to sit for the bar which is required to practice law. You also need an under graduate degree to attend law school. So without both of these degrees you can not practice Law in NC.
Now I am the first to admit a degree doesn't make you a genius. It is a minimum standard showing you have a basic education. You and the state wouldnt allow someone to operate on you who didnt go to medical school and you wouldnt have someone represent you in legal proceedings who didnt go to law school. A degree makes them qualified. So I would say it absolutely means something