LLM in Criminal Law career : Paths, Opportunities & Earnings
Pragati SinghSenior Executive - Content
LLM in Criminal Law careers include Criminal Lawyers or Defense Attorneys, who represent clients in criminal cases and appear in various courts, including district, high, and supreme 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 ranges, 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 professionals and specialists can earn upwards of INR 15 to INR 25 LPA, with highly experienced lawyers earning more depending on their reputation and caseload. Specific roles such as Criminal Lawyer and Public Prosecutor can command salaries ranging from INR 5 to INR 15 LPA, while judicial officers and corporate compliance professionals can earn between INR 10 to INR 18 LPA and INR 8 to INR 18 LPA, respectively.Top recruiters in this field include top law firms like Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas, Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co., Trilegal, Khaitan & Co., and AZB & Partners. Government organisations such as the CBI, ED, NIA, and Public Prosecutor’s Office also offer strong career opportunities, as do institutions like the Supreme Court, High Courts, and Law Commissions.
LLM Criminal Law Quick Facts
Below are some quick facts about LLM Criminal Law careers:
- The legal profession in India is expanding at approximately 8% annually, with criminal law specialisation being among the top 3 in demand.
- State governments are increasing the recruitment of Assistant Public Prosecutors and District Prosecutors to speed up criminal trials.
- Around 33% of Indian corporations now maintain in-house legal teams for compliance & criminal liability defense, creating niche roles for LLM grads.
LLM Criminal Law Course Related Information:
LLM Criminal Law Salary in India
LLM in Criminal Law not only gives you legal expertise but also opens avenues to careers in policy research, legal education, human rights, and corporate law. It allows professionals to directly impact justice delivery, public policy, and social reform, both within and beyond the courtroom.
LLM Criminal Law Average Annual Salary in India
From judicial services to corporate legal advisory, the salary range varies based on the role, sector, and years of experience. The table below provides a quick comparison of average annual salaries in government and private sectors for LLM Criminal Law graduates in India:
|
Sector |
Entry-Level Salary |
Experienced-Level Salary |
|---|---|---|
|
Government |
INR 6 – INR 8 LPA |
INR 10 – INR 18 LPA |
|
Private |
INR 5 – INR 9 LPA |
INR 12 – INR 25+ LPA |
LLM Criminal Law Specialisation-Wise Salary in India
Below is a detailed breakdown of average annual salaries across various criminal law specialisations in India. From courtroom litigation to cybercrime investigation and academic research, the specialisation you choose can significantly influence your salary trajectory.
|
Specialisation |
Top Job Roles |
Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
|
Criminal Litigation |
Criminal Lawyer, Legal Associate |
INR 5 – INR 12 LPA |
|
Cybercrime Law |
Cyber Law Consultant, Digital Crime Investigator |
INR 6 – INR 15 LPA |
|
White-Collar Crime & Economic Offenses |
Corporate Criminal Lawyer, Compliance Specialist |
INR 8 – INR 18 LPA |
|
Forensic & Investigative Law |
Legal Advisor in Law Enforcement, CBI/ED Investigator |
INR 6 – INR 14 LPA |
|
Human Rights & Criminal Justice Reform |
Human Rights Advocate, NGO Legal Advisor |
INR 4 – INR 10 LPA |
|
Academic & Research (Criminology Focused) |
Law Professor, Legal Researcher |
INR 4 – INR 9 LPA |
|
Judicial Services & Public Prosecution |
Public Prosecutor, Judicial Officer |
INR 6 – INR 15 LPA |
LLM Criminal Law Experience-Wise Salary in India
The salary for professionals with an LLM in Criminal Law varies significantly based on their years of experience, expertise, and the nature of the employer.
The following table outlines a general overview of the average salary one can expect at different stages of their career:
|
Experience Level |
Typical Job Roles |
Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
|
0-1 Year (Entry Level) |
Junior Associate, Legal Intern |
INR 3 - 6 LPA |
|
1-3 Years |
Legal Associate, Junior Lawyer |
INR 6 - 10 LPA |
|
3-5 Years |
Associate Lawyer, Legal Consultant |
INR 10 - 15 LPA |
|
5-7 Years |
Senior Associate, Legal Advisor |
INR 15 - 20 LPA |
|
7-10 Years |
Legal Counsel, Specialist Lawyer |
INR 20 - 30 LPA |
|
10+ Years |
Partner, Senior Consultant, Professor |
INR 30+ LPA |
LLM Criminal Law Career Related Information:
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. The scope of employment is vast, with growing demand and diverse opportunities in both the public and private sectors.
|
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 information is sourced from ambitionbox.com and other sources and may vary.
LLM Criminal Law Emerging Trends
Criminal Law field is influenced by technological advancements, societal changes, and new legal challenges. Below are some of the key emerging trends shaping the practice and study of Criminal Law for LLM graduates:
- Cybercrime and Digital Forensics: With the rise of cyber offenses such as hacking, identity theft, and online fraud, criminal law is increasingly focusing on cybercrime laws, digital evidence, and forensic technology.
- White-Collar Crime and Corporate Liability: There is growing attention on financial crimes, corporate fraud, and compliance regulations, making expertise in white-collar crime essential for modern criminal lawyers.
- Human Rights and Criminal Justice Reform: An increasing emphasis on protecting human rights within the criminal justice system has led to reforms in areas like police accountability, prison conditions, and fair trial standards.
- Use of Artificial Intelligence in Crime Detection and Legal Practice: AI tools are being integrated for predictive policing, case analysis, and legal research, raising new questions about privacy, bias, and due process.
- Transnational and International Criminal Law: Cross-border crimes such as terrorism, trafficking, and organized crime require collaboration between jurisdictions and knowledge of international law frameworks.
- Restorative Justice and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR): There is a growing trend towards restorative justice practices that focus on rehabilitation and reconciliation rather than punishment alone.
- Environmental Crime: With increased global focus on environmental protection, crimes related to pollution, wildlife trafficking, and illegal logging are gaining prominence in criminal law.
LLM Criminal Law Scope in India: Jobs, Salary, and Further Education
From traditional roles in law firms and government agencies to emerging opportunities in corporate compliance and international organisations, criminal law professionals are in demand to handle complex legal issues and contribute to justice systems worldwide.
The following table highlights popular industries where LLM Criminal Law graduates can build their careers, along with typical job roles and a brief description of each sector
|
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
These programs cover various advanced topics, from cyber law and forensic science to human rights and international criminal justice, equipping professionals with the knowledge and tools to excel in various legal careers.
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. |
Quick Links For LLM Criminal Law Career:
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 |
LLM Criminal Law Career FAQs
Q. What is the scope of LLM in Criminal Law?
A. The LLM Criminal Law scope is vast and diverse, as you can go in litigation, Corporate, Academics, NGOs, and also work under government by providing services to Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Enforcement Directorate, or other law enforcement agencies. Moreover, You can also conduct research and analysis and contributing to legal publications and journals.
Q. How does LLM Criminal Law course prepare me for future leadership roles?
A. The LLM Criminal Law covers topics such as penology, victimology, criminology, white-collar crime, cybercrime, and criminal justice reforms, which helps in assessing crime trends and systemic challenges for leadership roles.
Other than that this course hones your ability to analyse complex issues, frame legal strategies and reforms, interpret judgement and precedents.
Q. What is the average placement rate for LLM Criminal Law graduates from top colleges in this field?
A. Based on the information from external sources, 75%-80% approx. students are placed from top colleges in India. Many of these graduates are placed in criminal law firms, government agencies, corporate legal team, and judicial services. Some of the best universities even provide 90% placements.
Q. Which industries hire LLM in Criminal Law candidates?
A. Law firms that are specialising in criminal defence, prosecution, or white-collar crime, seek hiring for LLM in Criminal Law candidates. Another options are courts and judiciary, government leagl departments, police departments, investigative agencies, universities and Law schools and many more where Criminal Lawyers are in-demand.
Q. Are private-sector jobs in Criminal Law after doing LLM better-paying than government jobs?
A. Typically, private sector jobs in Criminal Law after an LLM degree offer higher potential earnings compared to government jobs. While government jpbs provide stability and benifits, private firms and law firms often offer more lucrative positions, especially in specialised areas such as Corporate Law.
Q. What are the job roles after LLM in Criminal Law course?
A. Below are some popular jobs for LLM Criminal Law graduates after completing course, along with their salary:
|
Job Profile |
Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
|
Criminal Defense Lawyer |
INR 1.5 - 10 LPA |
|
Public Prosecutor |
INR 1.5 - 12.1 LPA |
|
Legal Advisor (Corporate) |
INR 2 - 13.9 LPA |
|
Academician |
INR 5 - 12 LPA |
|
Legal Researcher |
INR 1.2 - 7.8 LPA |
Note- This information is sourced from ambitionbox.com and other sources and may vary.
- 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
Law Applications open till Nov 30, 2025. Apply Now
Popular Private LLM in Criminal Law Colleges in India
Law Applications open. Apply Now
Popular LLM in Criminal Law Specializations
Popular Specializations
- Criminal Law
162 Colleges
- Security & Investment Law
24 Colleges
- Corporate Law
22 Colleges
- Constitutional Law
18 Colleges
- Business Law
13 Colleges
- Human Rights & International Humanitarian Law
10 Colleges
- Intellectual Property Law
10 Colleges
- Commercial Law
7 Colleges
- Administrative Law
6 Colleges
- Cyber Law
5 Colleges
News & Updates
Student Forum
Anything you would want to ask experts?Answered 2 months ago
You can explore about -
- NLU online courses
- SCDL
- Open Universities
- SIFS India
- Coursera
- Udemy
- IGNOU
Scholar-Level 16
Answered 2 months ago
The core subjects studied at almost every level of the Criminal Law course are Foundations of Criminal Law, Indian Penal Code (IPC), Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), Criminology & Penology, Legal Research Methodology, etc.
Core subjects are the mandatory subjects that every student in a programme need
N
Contributor-Level 9
Answered 2 months ago
Here are some top recommendations on Criminal Law books that are my personal favorite:
- "Understanding Criminal Law" by Joshua Dressler.
- "The Indian Penal Code" by K.D. Gaur (Commentary).
- "The New Jim Crow" by Michelle Alexander.
- "Just Mercy" by Bryan Stevenson.
- "The Code of Criminal Procedure" by Ratanla
A
Contributor-Level 9
Answered 2 months ago
No, they are not. Online Criminal Law Diplomas are not sufficient to practice as a Lawyer in India. In fact, the BCI does not approve many degrees and certifications done online or in a distance learning mode.
There are certain eligibility requirements that need to be fulfilled for legal practice. Yo
I
Contributor-Level 9
Taking an Exam? Selecting a College?
Find insights & recommendations on colleges and exams that you won't find anywhere else
On Shiksha, get access to
- 65k Colleges
- 1k Exams
- 687k Reviews
- 1800k Answers
Can I pursue an online Criminal Law course while working full-time?