LLM Programs: Value or Vanity?

Analyzing the ROI of Master of Laws degrees for domestic and international students.

A Master of Laws (LL.M.) is a secondary law degree. For domestic JD holders, an LL.M. is generally only economically justifiable in Tax Law from a top-three program (NYU, Georgetown, Florida).

The Foreign Attorney LL.M.

For internationally trained attorneys, an LL.M. from a U.S. institution is often required to sit for a state bar exam (most commonly New York or California). However, candidates must be aware that an LL.M. does not guarantee employment; BigLaw firms rarely hire LL.M. graduates directly into associate classes unless they have a specific cross-border practice need.