Full Form of LLB and LLM

While opting for a legal career, two of the most debated degrees are LLB and LLM. Those degrees are the basic as well as higher ones for individuals who want to become legal experts. If you ever thought what LLB and LLM full form is, or their meaning, career options, and distinction, then you are at the right place with this article. Let’s dive into all you need to know.

What is the Full Form of LLB and LLM?

LLB: Bachelor of Laws

LLB is an abbreviation for Legum Baccalaureus. It is a Latin term, which can be translated to Bachelor of Laws. It is an undergraduate level degree that is pursued to study the field of law and is awarded by various universities in the world.

LLM: Master of Laws

Its shorter version is legum magister, i.e., the Master of Laws. This can be pursued after postgraduation by a candidate studying law as the undergraduate course in order to specialize in a branch of legal studies.

Understanding LLB: The First Step in a Legal Career

Overview of LLB

These are an introductory degree in different fields. Its syllabus may typically cover the subjects:

• Constitutional Law
• Criminal Law
• Corporate Law
• International Law
• Human Rights Law
• Administrative Law
• Legal Ethics

Types of LLB Courses

Depending on the nation and university, there are varying types of LLB programs:

• 3-Year LLB – This is for graduates from other disciplines who wish to study law.
• 5-Year Integrated LLB – This includes a combination of a bachelor’s degree (such as BA LLB, BBA LLB, or BCom LLB), allowing students to enter the legal field immediately after high school.

Eligibility Criteria for LLB

• For a 3-year LLB, a candidate must have completed a bachelor’s degree in any discipline.
• For a 5-year LLB, candidates must have completed their higher secondary education (10+2).

Career Opportunities After LLB

Graduating with an LLB opens up multiple career opportunities, such as:

• Advocate – Practicing in civil or criminal courts.
• Corporate Lawyer – Working for businesses and organizations.
• Legal Advisor – Providing legal consultancy services.
• Judiciary Services – Becoming a judge through competitive examinations.
• Government Jobs – Legal roles in government departments.

Understanding LLM: Specialization in Law

Overview of LLM

LLM is a postgraduate degree through which law graduates can specialize in specific areas of law. It grants extensive knowledge, research work, and international recognition.

Specializations in LLM

Some common specializations in LLM are:

• International Law
• Corporate and Commercial Law
• Constitutional Law
• Criminal Law
• Human Rights Law
• Environmental Law
• Intellectual Property Law
• Taxation Law

Eligibility Criteria for LLM

• Candidates must have completed an LLB or equivalent degree.
• Some universities require entrance exams or relevant work experience.

Career Opportunities After LLM

An LLM degree can lead to high-level legal professions like:

• Senior Advocate: Handling complex legal cases.
• Corporate Legal Advisor: Specializing in business law.
• Legal Scholar/Professor: Teaching law at universities.
• Policy Analyst: Working with think tanks and government agencies.
• Judiciary Roles: Higher qualification for judicial positions.

Difference Between LLB and LLM

Which Degree Should You Choose?

Either LLB or LLM can be chosen depending on your career goals:

• If you are embarking on a legal education for the first time, an LLB is where you start.
• If you have already completed LLB and would like to further specialize, then an LLM is the option.
  
• For corporate, international, or research-oriented legal careers, LLM gives an extra edge to those aspiring for them.

Conclusion

Knowing the full form of LLB and LLM is of prime significance to law professionals who are interested in pursuing this profession. While LLB establishes a foundation, LLM can specialize and provide expertise. You may be an advocate, legal consultant, or academic scholar; however, both these degrees play a key role in building a successful law career.

If you want to pursue law, enroll in the program and begin with LLB; you may upgrade to LLM afterwards. LLB and LLM thus constitute a great career path in the legal profession with varied opportunities.