Are you considering getting a law degree, but are not sure whether to get a J.D. or LL.M? You’re not alone. While the two degrees have many similarities, there are some key differences that you should consider before making your decision. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the key differences between J.D.’s and LL.M.’s, so you can make an informed decision about which degree is right for you.
What is J.D?
J.D. is an abbreviation for the legal title of “Juris Doctor.” The J.D. degree is the primary professional degree in law in the United States and is earned after completing three years of full-time study at an accredited law school. The J.D. curriculum typically includes courses in constitutional law, contracts, property law, civil procedure, and legal writing, as well as a number of elective courses.
After completing the J.D. program, graduates must pass a state bar examination in order to be licensed to practice law. J.D. holders who wish to pursue careers in academia or public service may choose to continue their studies and earn an LL.M. (Master of Laws) or JSD (Doctor of Juridical Science) degree.
What is LL.M?
LL.M. stands for Master of Laws. It is a degree that is typically pursued by students who have already completed a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree and wish to specialize in a particular area of law. LL.M. programs are typically very flexible, allowing students to tailor their course of study to their specific interests and career goals.
Because of this, LL.M. programs are ideal for students who are looking to gain specialized legal knowledge or pursue an academic research project. While LL.M. programs vary widely in terms of content and structure, most programs require students to complete a thesis or capstone project in order to graduate.
Difference between J.D and LL.M
J.D and LL.M are two types of academic degrees that are granted by law schools. J.D stands for Juris Doctor, and LL.M stands for Masters of Laws. J.D programs typically last three years, and LL.M programs typically last one year. J.D programs prepare students to become practicing lawyers, while LL.M programs prepare students for careers in academia or for positions in which they will need to have a deep understanding of the law.
J.D programs focus on teaching students how to apply the law, while LL.M programs focus on teaching students how to research and write about the law. J.D programs require students to take classes in a wide variety of legal subjects, while LL.M programs allow students to specialize in a particular area of the law. J.D and LL.M degrees are both useful for different purposes, and which degree is right for you will depend on your career goals.
Conclusion
While a Juris Doctor is the most common law degree, an LL.M. can be beneficial for those looking to specialize in a certain area of law or who want to teach law.
