LLM in Criminal Law career : Paths, Opportunities & Earnings

Updated on Jun 3, 2025 12:28 IST

LLM in Criminal Law careers include Criminal Lawyers or Defense Attorneys, who represent clients in criminal cases and appear in various courts. Many opt for government roles as Public Prosecutors, representing the state in criminal proceedings, which are secured through competitive exams. 

In terms of salary, entry-level professionals usually earn between INR 3 to INR 7 LPA while those with 3–5 years of experience earn around INR 8 to INR 15 LPA. Senior employees can easily get around INR 15 to INR 25 LPA. Top recruiters are top law firms like Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas, Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co., etc.

Useful Link:

Top 10 Criminal Lawyers in India

Top LLM Criminal Law Careers

LLM in Criminal Law career options include public prosecution, defense law, corporate counsel, academia, research and working with NGOs. Students can take a look at the table below for more details -

Job Profile

Job Description

Average Annual Salary

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Represents individuals accused of crimes, defends their rights, and seeks the best possible outcome.

INR 1.5 - 10 LPA

Public Prosecutor

Represents the state in criminal proceedings, presenting evidence and arguing for convictions.

INR 1.5 - 12.1 LPA

Legal Advisor (Corporate)

Provides legal advice to corporations on criminal law matters, such as compliance with regulations and responding to investigations.

INR 2 - 13.9 LPA

Academician

Teaches criminal law courses at universities and law schools, conducts research, and publishes scholarly articles.

INR 5 - 12 LPA

Legal Researcher

Conducts legal research and analysis for law firms, courts, or academic institutions.

INR 1.2 - 7.8 LPA

Note - This info is taken from Ambitionbox.com and may vary.

LLM Criminal Law Emerging Trends

Below are some of the important emerging trends shaping the practice and study of Criminal Law for LLM graduates -

  • Cybercrime
  • White Collar Crime and Corporate Liability
  • Human Rights and Criminal Justice Reform
  • Use of Artificial Intelligence in Crime Detection
  • Transnational and International Criminal Law
  • Restorative Justice and ADR

LLM Criminal Law Scope in India: Jobs, Salary & Further Education

From traditional roles in law firms and government agencies to emerging opportunities, the table highlights popular industries where graduates can build their careers -

Sector

Description

Law Firms

Provide legal advice and represent clients in criminal cases across various courts.

Corporate Sector

Ensure companies comply with laws, handle white-collar crime, and manage internal investigations.

Government & Public Sector

Represent the state in criminal prosecutions and assist in law enforcement agencies.

Judiciary

Support judges by researching case law and drafting opinions in criminal matters.

Academia & Research

Teach criminal law and conduct research on evolving legal issues and reforms.

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)

Work on criminal justice reforms, prisoner rights, and advocacy for marginalized groups.

Law Enforcement Agencies

Provide legal guidance to police and assist in evidence analysis and criminal investigations.

International Organizations

Handle transnational crimes, international treaties, and global criminal justice policies.

Media & Journalism

Report on legal issues, analyze criminal law developments, and educate the public.

Private Investigation

Support criminal investigations by gathering evidence and advising on legal compliance.

Courses after LLM Criminal Law Course

The table below highlights some popular courses and certifications available for further study after an LLM in Criminal Law -

Course Name

Description

PhD in Criminal Law

Advanced research degree focused on original scholarship and contributions to criminal law.

Diploma in Cyber Law

Specialised training on laws governing cybercrimes, digital evidence, and IT regulations.

Certification in Forensic Science

Course on scientific methods for evidence collection and analysis in criminal investigations.

Diploma in Criminal Psychology

Study of criminal behavior, psychology behind crimes, and offender profiling techniques.

Postgraduate Diploma in Intellectual Property Rights (IPR)

Focus on protecting creative works, relevant to cyber and white-collar crimes.

Certification in Human Rights Law

Focuses on legal protections of human rights within the criminal justice system.

Diploma in Mediation and Alternate Dispute Resolution (ADR)

Training in resolving disputes through mediation, arbitration, and restorative justice.

Top LLM in Criminal Law Recruiters

Recruiters for LLM in Criminal Law graduates include law firms, government agencies, NGOs, universities and corporations. Some of the top companies are given in the table below -

LLM Criminal Law Recruiters 

Aegis Legal LLP

Trilegal

Amicus Legal

JSB and Partners

Daksh Associates

CMB Legal

Office of the Public Prosecutor

Dhir and Dhir Associates

Table of contents
  • Popular LLM in Criminal Law Colleges in India
  • Popular Private LLM in Criminal Law Colleges in India
  • Popular LLM in Criminal Law Specializations

Popular LLM in Criminal Law Colleges in India

Following are the most popular LLM in Criminal Law Colleges in India. Learn more about these LLM in Criminal Law colleges (Courses, Reviews, Answers & more) by downloading the Brochure.
17 Courses
2.25 L - 15.91 L
16 LPA

#1 NIRF

6 Courses
1.49 L - 7.45 L
12 - 14 LPA

#2 NIRF

65 K - 7.75 L
7 - 16 LPA

#3 NIRF

34 K - 80 L
10 - 20 LPA

#4 NIRF

13 Courses
10 K - 6 L
6 - 16 LPA

#5 NIRF

15 Courses
2.7 L - 25.3 L
4.3

#7 NIRF

Popular Private LLM in Criminal Law Colleges in India

1.6 L - 14 L
3.7

#26 NIRF

Law Applications open. Apply Now

4 Courses
1.25 L - 3.75 L
4.4

Law Applications open. Apply Now

3.08 L - 5.2 L
1.06 L - 13.1 L
4 - 6.8 LPA

#27 The Week

Law Applications open. Apply Now

85 K - 13.81 L
2.8
25 K - 5.4 L
5.0

Law Applications open. Apply Now

Popular LLM in Criminal Law Specializations

Following are the most popular LLM in Criminal Law Specializations . You can explore the top Colleges offering these Specializations by clicking the links below.
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Answered 13 hours ago

There are a total of 120 seats available at Medicaps University for BA LLB (H). Students must appear in the MLAT exam and secure good marks to get a seat at the university. To secure the seat, students have to pay the course fee.

A

Anjali Sharma

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 13 hours ago

Yes, Nirma University does offer hostel services to BCom LLB (hons) students. There are separate hostels for both boys and girls with different facilities and room accomodations. Hostel fees can range between INR 4.25 Lacs to INR 5.25 lakh.

S

Saurabh Khanduri

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 13 hours ago

There is no mention of a rule regarding changing course in the middle of curriculum from BCom LLB (hons) to BA LLB (hons) at Nirma University. Generally, candidates are able to change their course this way if their are seats available in their chosen course.

However, candidates should ask this from a

...Read more

S

Saurabh Khanduri

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 13 hours ago

Yes, candidates can participate in moot court competitions during BCom LLB (hons) curriculum at Nirma University. Candidates also get an option of either pursuing an intership or moot court during final year of BCom LLB (hons) curriculum.

S

Saurabh Khanduri

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 14 hours ago

Nirma University BCom LLB (hons) seat reservation includes 15% reservations for NRI/ NRI sponsored categories. This reservation includes 9 out 60 total seats for BCom LLB (hons) course offered by Nirma University, Institute of Law. 

S

Saurabh Khanduri

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 14 hours ago

SASTRA University gives 50% weightage to Class 12 scores and 50% to CLAT scores in Phase-II. In Phase-I, admission is entirely based on scores of the aspirants in CLAT. In case the applicant has not appeared for CLAT, weighted score for 50% will become 0 but the Class 12 aggregate will be given 50%

...Read more

N

Nishtha Shukla

Guide-Level 15

Answered 14 hours ago

Yes, candidates can apply for Nirma University BCom LLB (hons) admisions before receiving their Class 12 board exam scores. Such candidates must provide some proof of them passing Class 12th to complete BCom LLB (hons) application process. 

This proof can include a signed letter from the principle ac

...Read more

S

Saurabh Khanduri

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 14 hours ago

Nirma University BCom LLB (hons) admissions require following documents from candidates:

  • Class 10th and Class 12th marksheet and passing certificate
  • ID and address proof
  • CLAT-UG scorecard
  • Transfer certificate

S

Saurabh Khanduri

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 14 hours ago

Yes, candidates are refunded any BCom LLB (hons) fees paid to Nirma University upon cancelling their admission. Nirma University has its own refund policy which has been tabulated below:

Refund PercentageDate of Admission Cancellation
100%Up to 05.07.2026 
90%From 06.07.2026  
to 19.08.2026  
80%From 20.08.2026  
to 18.09.2026 
60%From 19.09.2026 
onwards 

S

Saurabh Khanduri

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 14 hours ago

BCom LLB (hons) fees at Nirma University is INR 19.67 Lacs in academic year 2026. This amount has both yearly as well as one-time payments. Tuition fees comprises INR 18.75 Lacs out of the aforementioned amount and is charged on yearly basis at INR 3.75 lakh.

S

Saurabh Khanduri

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 14 hours ago

No, Nirma University BCom LLB (hons) admission is no longer open for academic year 2026. Candidates were required to complete their BCom LLB (hons) admission forms by third week of April this year.

Candidates who failed to apply within this time are now required to wait for 2027 admissions to begin i

...Read more

S

Saurabh Khanduri

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 14 hours ago

No, Nirma University BCom LLB (hons) eligibility criteria does not require candidates to have Mathematics as a mandatory subject in Class 12th. Candidates who want to apply for BCom LLB (hons) only need to pass Class 12 board exams with a minimum aggregate of 45% to be eligible. Their chosen stream

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S

Saurabh Khanduri

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 15 hours ago

Yes, CLAT-UG is a mandatory entrance exam for BCom LLB (hons) admission at Nirma University. This institute does not accept any other entrance exams for this course nor does it conduct any exams of its own for admission. Candidates can beginning applying once CLAT-UG registrations begin.

S

Saurabh Khanduri

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 15 hours ago

Candidates can begin applying for Nirma University BA LLB (hons) course as soon as CLAT-UG registrations begin. CLAT-UG registrations begin in August of last year and remain open for one month. CLAT-UG is conducted in December with results declared in January.

Candidates will be able to apply for Nir

...Read more

S

Saurabh Khanduri

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 15 hours ago

No, Nirma University does not accept LSAT scores for BA LLB (hons) admission. LSAT India is an exam specifically for admission to three year LLB courses. Since, Nirma University does not offer LLB courses, it does not accept LSAT for any course offered by it.

S

Saurabh Khanduri

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 15 hours ago

There is only one mandatory internship present within Nirma University BA LLB (hons) curriculum. However, candidates can go for internships beginning from third semester. Candidates are advised to take all these internship opportunities during their curriculum to build a better portfolio upon gradua

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S

Saurabh Khanduri

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 15 hours ago

BHU counselling process for BA LLB (CAP-UG) starts in second/ third week of July. The counselling process continues till August end. The seats are allotted in multiple rounds on the basis of entrance merit. 

B

Bipasha Jha

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 15 hours ago

Application fee for CAP-UG is INR 500 for General/ OBC-NCL/ EWS categories. Categories like SC/ ST/ PwBD have to pay INR 250. The applications are available on official website.

B

Bipasha Jha

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 15 hours ago

Nirma University BA LLB (hons) seat intake is comprised of 180 seats out of which, 27 seats have been reserved. Remaining seats at Nirma University are open category for general candidates. Currently, no other seat reservation policy is present at Nirma University, Institute of Law.

S

Saurabh Khanduri

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 16 hours ago

Yes, the reservation details are as follows:

CategoryReservation 
SC15%
ST7.5%
OBC27%
EWS10%
PwBD5%
BHU employee wards15%

B

Bipasha Jha

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 16 hours ago

Yes, candidates who want to apply for BA LLB (hons) admission process before receiving Class 12 board exam results can do so after appearing in CLAT-UG.

However, such candidates are required to provide some proof of them completing Class 12th to be able to apply for BA LLB (hons) course.

S

Saurabh Khanduri

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 16 hours ago

Yes, BHU offers an integrated BA LLB Hons programme. It is offered for five years by the faculty of law. Admissions in the course are based on CUET UG scores. The eligibility to apply is Class 12 with at least 50% marks (General). 

B

Bipasha Jha

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 16 hours ago

Placement rate recorded during Sage University Bhopal LLB placements in 2025 and 2024 was 100%.

S

Saakshi Malhotra

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 16 hours ago

Sage University Bhopal LLB placements highlights of 2025 and 2024 are presented below:

Particulars

LLB Placement Statistics 2024

LLB Placement Statistics 2025

Median package

INR 2 LPA

INR 2.5 LPA

Number of graduating students

26

19

Students placed

19

11

Students selected for higher studies

7

8

N

Nishtha Sharma

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 16 hours ago

No, BA LLB at BHU cannot be completed in three years. The course is offered for five years. The syllabus of the programme is divided in 10 semesters. It is compulsory for students to complete all semesters to get the degree. 

B

Bipasha Jha

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 16 hours ago

During BA LLB (hons) admissions at Nirma University, candidates will need following documents:

  • Class 10th and Class 12th passing certificate and marksheet
  • ID and address proof
  • CLAT-UG scorecard

S

Saurabh Khanduri

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 16 hours ago

Nirma University BA LLB (hons) fees is INR 19.67 Lacs in academic year 2026. This amount has both yearly as well as one-time payments. Tuition fees comprises INR 18.75 Lacs out of the aforementioned amount and is charged on yearly basis at INR 3.75 lakh.

S

Saurabh Khanduri

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 16 hours ago

Yes, candidates can receive refunds from Nirma University if they choose tocancel their admission. These refunds will be offered based on a custom policy which is as follows:

Refund PercentageDate of Admission Cancellation
100%Up to 05.07.2026 
90%From 06.07.2026  
to 19.08.2026  
80%From 20.08.2026  
to 18.09.2026 
60%From 19.09.2026 
onwards 

 

S

Saurabh Khanduri

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 16 hours ago

No, Nirma University BA LLB (hons) admissions have been closed for academic year 2026. Candidates who wanted to apply for BA LLB (hons) were required to participate in CLAT-UG counselling rounds. CLAT-UG counselling ended in May.

S

Saurabh Khanduri

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 17 hours ago

No, Nirma University BA LLB (hons) eligibility criteria does not require cadidates to have Law as a mandatory subject in Class 12 board exams. A candidate's chosen stream or set of subjects in Class 12th are irrelevant for BBA LLB (hons) course's eligibility.

S

Saurabh Khanduri

Contributor-Level 10

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