What are my options with an LL.M?
What are my options with an LL.M? – Whether you are currently taking an LL.M degree or if you wonder whether an LL.M degree is right for you, you definitely have a few options on how to use your Master of Laws.
(1) Internship
It became common for LL.M students to do an internship while they are undertaking an LL.M – whether during the school break or after the end of the degree. Whether it is paid or unpaid, it is definitely to best way to gain exposure to U.S. law practice and law firm culture.
More importantly, for those seeking to stay in the U.S. after their degree, having an internship is an added chance to obtain a position within the same firm. The possibility of full-time employment is small but it increasingly happens.
(2) Foreign Associate
Over the last few years, many law firms have hired LL.M to occupy the position of Foreign Associate. It is essentially a program to invite foreign lawyers to their U.S. offices for a limited period of time. This would imply that you are admitted in your home jurisdiction.
It is important to note that these programs are not always advertised on the law firm’s websites and that an LL.M student should certainly make its case, especially with law firms that have not formally established such a program.
(3) Entry Level Associate or Lateral positions
Getting hired by a law firm through the regular J.D. recruiting cycle is rare. J.D. students are usually hired following a summer associate position that they apply to the year before. That being said, it happens time to time.
Your best bet is on Lateral positions: getting hired as an associate laterally is more common than the option mentioned above. In particular, if you passed the Bar Exam of the jurisdiction, then you will meet the basic requirements for most of the position available.
(4) Alternative Careers
Studying law does not necessarily mean that you need to become a lawyer. Compliance jobs, in-house or document reviewer offer a hot alternative career for LL.M holders.
Especially if you passed the Bar Exam: lawyers who are compliance officers tend to be favored in hiring and for advancement opportunities. Since these jobs often involve complex expertise, an international experience would be an added value.
And of course, with the introduction of compliance in many foreign countries, lawyers with expertise in foreign laws and regulation are often sought in U.S. companies.
Consolidating your international legal carrer
Most and foremost, your best option with an LL.M in law is an international career. Lately, it became almost a requirement for most law firms. See our latest post on International Employment.
