The law degrees JD and LLB have similarities and differences. They are awarded primarily based on the country standard where the degree is earned, and are both considered a first-level law degree.
Definition
The JD is a Juris Doctor, and the LLB is a Bachelor of Laws. A JD degree is required in most states to gain entrance to the bar.
History
The LLB is based on English "common law." Until the mid-1960s, it was the benchmark law degree for all common law countries, including the U.S. Later, U.S. law schools changed the standard to the JD.
Significance
Unlike the bachelor-level LLB, the JD is a post-graduate, three-year professional degree in law. In addition to being the standard degree to practice law in the U.S., it is becoming more customary in Canada, Hong Kong, Australia and elsewhere.
Curriculum Similarities
While each degree's curricula focus on the practice of law, the LLB is more academic in nature. The recipient may require further accreditation before entering practice, depending on the country. This may not apply in countries where the LLB is earned as a post-graduate degree. In such cases, the LLB and JD may be treated equally.
Misconceptions
While the JD degree is technically a doctor's degree, recipients are not addressed as "Dr." That is reserved for a more advanced law degree--for example, Doctor of Juridical Science, or J.S.D.
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