Difference Between a Juris Doctor (JD) and LLB
If you are trying to know the difference between LLB and Juris Doctor courses, then the following article will give you an insight of the key elements that make these Law degrees stand apart. Read on!
Difference Between LLB and Juris Doctor
New doors of opportunities have definitely opened up in the field of Law. From a computer forensics professional to an environmental specialist, you can work in many fields of your choice after studying Law. All you need is to choose the right legal course. But before taking any decision it is equally important to find answers to some questions like- which legal degree is suitable for you and what is its scope. To study Law in India, candidates pursue a three-year LLB course after graduation or a five-year integrated LLB course after 10+2. But in many countries like USA, Juris Doctor (JD) course is taught instead of LLB and its demand is increasing rapidly in many more countries. So, let us understand the difference between these two Law degrees in detail.
LLB Degree and Integrated LLB Degree
LLB degree, also known as Bachelor of Legislative Law, is an undergraduate Law course of three-years or five-years duration, which can be pursued after graduation and class 10+2, respectively. The LLB courses offered in all Law colleges in India are regulated and closely supervised by the Bar Council of India (BCI). The three-year Law course is divided into six semesters and covers only fundamental legal subjects. Whereas, the five-year Law course such as BA LLB, BBA LLB, BCom LLB, BSc LLB, etc. is divided into ten semesters and includes other subjects as well along with the fundamental legal subjects.
For example, BA LLB is an amalgamation of Humanities and Law streams and the candidates are taught subjects like History, Sociology, Administrative Law, Criminology, Family Law etc. BCom LLB covers the subjects of Commerce and Law. In BBA LLB, however, legal subjects are taught along with Business Administration, whereas in BSc LLB, candidates study subjects like Civil Law, Labor Law, Corporate Law, Tax Law, Patent Law, Criminal Law, Chemistry, Biotechnology etc.
Both the courses require candidates to attend regular theory classes, moot courts, internships as well as tutorial work. These courses focus on the legal procedures and helps in developing logical, analytical and critical understanding of legal matters in the candidates.
Eligibility Criteria for LLB
The eligibility criteria are different for both the LLB courses. You can take admission in suitable course as per your choice or interest. The eligibility criteria for both the courses are given below:
| Eligibility criteria |
|
|---|---|
| Three-year LLB degree |
Five-year Integrated LLB degree |
| To pursue LLB course candidates need to be graduate i.e., they should have passed Bachelor's degree of three years or four years duration in any subject/discipline. |
10+2 from a recognized board. |
| Some colleges also fix a minimum percentage requirement which ranges from 45 percent to 55 per cent for general category candidates and between 35% to 45% for SC/ST category candidates in graduation. |
Candidates belonging to General/OBC/Specially Handicapped Persons categories must have secured at least 45 – 50 per cent marks in their 10+2 level and the percentage prescribed for SC/ST category is 40%. |
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Entrance Exams for LLB
Though some colleges admit candidates on the basis of merit, but most of the Law colleges/universities in India admit candidates on the basis of national level Law entrance exams or entrance test conducted by them. Some of the popular Law entrance exams are:
- CLAT
- AILET
- DU LLB Law Entrance Exam
- Maharashtra Common Entrance Test for Law
- Panjab University LLB Entrance Exam
- Telangana State Law Common Entrance Test
- Law School Admission Test India
- Andhra Pradesh Law Common Entrance Test
Juris Doctor (JD) Degree
Juris Doctor is a professional bachelor's degree in Law. Candidates can apply for this course after fulfilling the prescribed eligibility criteria. Although it is available in selected countries only such as US, Australia, Canada, Japan, Hong Kong etc. In the United States, it is a prerequisite for anyone wishing to practice Law. The duration of this course is usually three-years, but many law schools in the US also offer an accelerated two-year program. Applicants have to complete graduation from a recognized institution to get admission in Juris Doctor program. Generally, candidates who have completed their Bachelor's degree of three or four-years as specified by the University can apply. Through this course, students are provided with an effective approach to evaluate and address ethical issues.
Eligibility Criteria for Juris Doctor Course
The eligibility criteria for JD degree may vary according to the college and country in which the candidate wants to take admission. Though the basic eligibility criteria include a Bachelor's degree and scores of Law School Admission Test (LSAT) and TOEFL. Besides, candidates should keep checking the university website for admission related specific information.
Popular Colleges for Juris Doctor
Some popular colleges that offer a Juris Doctor course are:
- Yale University
- Harvard University
- New York University
- Albany Law School
- Singapore Management University
- Australian National University-Law
- California Western school of Law
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