Are you considering pursuing a Master of Laws (LLM) degree? If you have a passion for law and want to enhance your career prospects, obtaining an LLM degree from a top university can open up a wealth of opportunities. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the various professions you can pursue after completing an LLM, both in the public and private sectors. We will also discuss the role of the Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) in gaining admission to a top law school for your LLM degree. Let's dive in!

Introduction

The legal profession is a dynamic and in-demand field, offering a multitude of career opportunities. While a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree provides a solid foundation, pursuing an LLM degree can take your legal career to new heights. Whether you aspire to become a judge, legal advisor, law examiner, advocate, or oath commissioner, an LLM degree can equip you with the specialized knowledge and skills necessary to excel in these roles.

Professions that can be pursued after completing LLM

1. Judges: Upholding Justice: Every legal system holds judges in high regard, and pursuing an LLM can open doors to a career on the bench. Judges play a crucial role in interpreting and applying the law. To become a judge, one must possess extensive knowledge of the subject matter and relevant experience. The salary of a Junior Civil Judge in India ranges from Rs. 27,700 to Rs. 47,700 per month[^1^].
2. Legal Advisors: Expert Guidance: Legal advisors provide essential guidance and support to individuals and organizations. They assist with contract summarization, contract management, legal research, writing, court cases, and analytical projects. With prior knowledge and expertise in a specific field, you can excel as a legal advisor and earn a lucrative salary. The average salary for the role of Legal Advisor in India is Rs. 32,900 per month[^1^].
3. Law Examiners: Evaluating Legal Documents: Law examiners play a crucial role in examining and evaluating legal documents, such as comments and documentary evidence. They are responsible for ensuring the accuracy and validity of legal records. Law examiners are typically paid on an hourly basis, with an average rate of Rs. 600 per hour[^1^].
4. Advocates: Champions of the Law: Advocates, also known as lawyers, are valued specialists in the field of law. They represent clients in legal matters, provide expert advice, and advocate for their rights. The role of an advocate requires a comprehensive understanding of the country's laws and legal procedures. The average salary for a Lawyer in India is Rs. 19,718 per month[^1^].
5. Oath Commissioners: Administering Oaths: Oath commissioners, also known as oath officers, administer oaths and affirmations. This role is typically fulfilled by freshly qualified lawyers appointed by the High Court Registrar. The starting salary for an Oath Commissioner is Rs. 1,80,000 per annum[^1^].

Opportunities for LLM Graduates in the Public Sector

In addition to the aforementioned professions, LLM graduates have several opportunities in the public sector. They can work as magistrates, judges, legal advisors, public prosecutors, and even pursue a career in teaching after passing the National Eligibility Test (NET) or an equivalent exam. Various government departments, such as Indian Railways, Defense, and Excise, also offer career opportunities for LLM graduates.

Table: Jobs Available for LLM Graduates in the Public Sector

Note: The salary figures mentioned above are approximate and subject to change based on various factors[^1^].

Opportunities for LLM Graduates in the Private Sector

The private sector offers a plethora of opportunities for LLM graduates. Top law firms in India, such as Khaitan & Co, Luthra and Luthra, Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas, S&R Associates, and AZB & Partners, provide high-profile clients and attractive salary packages. NGOs, consultancies, media and publishing houses, and international organizations like the United Nations (UN) also hire LLM graduates for well-paid positions.

Table: Average Salaries at Top Law Firms in India

Note: The salary figures mentioned above are approximate and subject to change based on various factors[^1^].

Apart from law firms, LLM graduates can explore career opportunities in sectors such as NGOs, consultancies, media and publishing houses, and international organizations like the United Nations. The role of a company secretary (CS) is also highly valued for LLM graduates, as it involves dealing with company law and can offer a starting salary package of around Rs. 2,50,000 per annum[^1^].

The Role of CLAT in Admission to a Top University for Pursuing LLM

The Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) is a national-level entrance exam administered by the Consortium of National Law Universities. CLAT scores are not only used for LLB and LLM admissions but also for recruitment in public sector companies such as ONGC, Coal India, BHEL, and more. By successfully attempting the CLAT PG entrance exam, you have the opportunity to gain admission to prestigious National Law Universities (NLUs) in India.

CLAT: A Gateway to Prestigious National Law Universities

CLAT is considered the most prestigious entrance exam for law in India. NLUs, often referred to as the "IITs of Law," are the top-ranked law schools in the country. The National Law School of India University (NLSIU), Bangalore, was the first NLU established in 1986. Currently, there are 23 NLUs in India, with 22 of them offering admission through the CLAT exam.

Benefits of Attempting the CLAT PG Entrance Exam

The CLAT PG exam offers several advantages for aspiring LLM students. By attempting the CLAT PG exam, you have the chance to secure admission to top law colleges in the country. These NLUs provide exceptional education and exposure, opening doors to lucrative career opportunities. Furthermore, CLAT scores can also be used for recruitment in public sector undertakings, increasing your chances of securing a well-paid legal position.

Enhancing Your Career with an LLM Degree

Pursuing an LLM degree not only enhances your legal knowledge and skills but also provides numerous career benefits. Let's explore some of the ways an LLM degree can boost your career prospects:

Specialization: Expanding Your Expertise

An LLM degree allows you to specialize in a particular field of law, providing you with in-depth knowledge and expertise. Whether you're interested in intellectual property, corporate law, international trade, or any other area, an LLM program can equip you with specialized training to excel in your chosen field.

International Experience and Language Proficiency

Many LLM programs offer opportunities for international study, allowing you to gain exposure to different legal systems and cultures. Studying abroad or participating in an exchange program can broaden your horizons and provide valuable international experience. Additionally, studying in an English-taught LLM program can improve your language proficiency and enhance your communication skills.

Upgrading Your First Degree

If you feel that your undergraduate degree in law lacks prestige or recognition, obtaining an LLM degree from a prestigious law school can bridge that gap. A well-regarded LLM degree can enhance your qualifications and make you more competitive in the job market. It demonstrates your commitment to furthering your legal education and can open doors to prestigious opportunities.

Changing Career Tracks

An LLM degree can serve as a stepping stone if you are considering a career change within the legal field. LLM programs offer a wide range of specializations, allowing you to pivot your career towards areas such as intellectual property law, international dispute resolution, tax law, or securities law. By gaining expertise in a new domain, you can explore exciting career opportunities beyond your current specialization.

Extending Your Professional Network

Pursuing an LLM degree provides you with the opportunity to network with fellow legal professionals, professors, and industry experts. Building connections within the legal community can open doors to job opportunities, mentorship, and collaborations. Take advantage of networking events, conferences, and alumni networks to expand your professional network and stay connected with the legal fraternity.

Mastering Legal English

An LLM program offers a unique opportunity to improve your legal English skills. Through coursework and interactions with professors and peers, you can enhance your proficiency in both everyday and professional legal English. This language fluency is highly valued in the legal profession, especially when working with international clients or pursuing global career opportunities.

Contributing to Legal Research

Some LLM programs emphasize research and encourage students to explore new fields and contribute to legal scholarship. If you are passionate about legal research and academia, a research-focused LLM can serve as a stepping stone to a future role in academia or even a Ph.D. program. Engaging in publishable research during your LLM can enhance your expertise and contribute to the advancement of legal knowledge.

Boosting Your Earning Potential

An LLM degree from a prestigious university can enhance your earning potential. Employers often value specialized expertise, and an LLM in a high-demand area like intellectual property law, contract drafting, or mergers and acquisitions can lead to higher salary prospects. However, it's important to note that various factors, including professional experience, the reputation of your law school, and the demand for your specialization, also influence job prospects and earning potential.

Conclusion

Obtaining an LLM degree from a top university can open up a world of opportunities in the legal field. Whether you choose to pursue a career as a judge, legal advisor, law examiner, advocate, or explore opportunities in the public or private sector, an LLM degree equips you with the specialized knowledge and skills necessary for success. Additionally, CLAT offers a gateway to prestigious National Law Universities, further enhancing your career prospects. So, take the leap and embark on an LLM journey that can shape your legal career and open doors to exciting possibilities.