Is Indian law degree valid in US?

Asked by: Brad Stracke  |  Last update: July 26, 2023
Score: 4.9/5 (39 votes)

It can be challenging for foreign-trained lawyers to sit for the bar exam in the US. In most states, a JD degree is required to sit in the bar exam. But there are some states which do allow foreign law graduates to sit for the bar exam, including New York, California, Washington, Virginia, Alabama, Georgia.

Is Indian LLB Recognised in USA?

The rules state that those who did not pursue a 2-year law degree or who qualified from a non-common law jurisdiction need to pursue an LLM in the US, before being eligible to take the exam. This option is typically the one used by Indian lawyers who want to obtain US-qualification as well.

In which country Indian law degree is valid?

Recently, Canada has recognised the three-year Indian law degree for higher studies. To practice law with a degree from an Indian law school, you must either pass an exam or enroll in a law course in most countries. Also, career opportunities are limited for lawyers with an Indian Bachelor's degree in law.

Does the US recognize foreign law degrees?

Yes. However, most jurisdictions require holders of foreign law degrees to have an additional legal degree, such as a J.D. or LL. M., from an ABA-accredited law school in the United States.

Can I use my LLB in USA?

In almost all cases, the ABA must first review and approve your foreign law degree. This can take a year or more. You can sit for that state's bar if the ABA gives you a nod of approval and you meet the state's other requirements. Only Vermont recognizes foreign law degrees with any regularity.

How To Become A Lawyer In USA After Doing Law From India | Ft. Ms. Susanah Naushad | Letter of Law |

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Can a Indian lawyer work in USA?

The passing candidates won't have to give the bar exam in the US. However, another way is to take an LLM degree in the US. This will make it simpler for a candidate to pass the US bar test. After passing the test, one may practice law in the United States.

Can I work in USA after LLB from India?

If a foreign-trained lawyer has at least completed a 3-year duration of the program and focused on English common law, then they can appear for the bar after they receive an Advance Evaluation of Eligibility from the Board. California is another good option for foreign-trained lawyers to practice law.

Can I get a job in the US with a foreign degree?

Many U.S. employers will accept an international degree, although you may need to take additional steps as an international applicant that your domestic counterparts aren't subject to.

Will my degree be recognized in the US?

A common question from international students is, “Will US employers accept my degree from abroad?” We're here to give you a deeper look into this. The short answer is, yes, the majority of US employers will accept your international degree.

Do US law firms hire foreign lawyers?

Lawyers from foreign jurisdictions seeking to join a firm in the United States have the onus to prove that their experience is compatible to an American practice. The primary issue for these attorneys is how to translate their education and experience so that a United States law firm can understand that experience.

How many countries accept Indian law degree?

"Law degrees from India, Australia, Bangladesh, England, Hong Kong, Ireland, New Zealand, Nigeria, Pakistan, Singapore, USA, Wales and West Indies are being treated equivalently," Prof Krishna said.

Is LLB in India a qualifying law degree?

Candidates looking for the study of law after graduation in any other discipline may opt for a three-year LLB course which is also counted as undergraduate law course. The three-year LLB course focuses solely on the study of law.

Can a law graduate from India work abroad?

After pursuing LLB in India, you can definitely plan to work abroad. However, you'll be required to write a test held by the respective Bar Council of that country. Indian students quite enjoy working in the UK wherein they receive attractive salary packages.

Can I get a job in USA after LLM from India?

Most graduates work in private practice at law firms around the world, including many of the leading law firms globally. Each year, approximately 15 - 25% of Foreign-Trained LLM students report obtaining positions in the US; both short-term and long-term and in the private and public sector.

What is LLB equivalent to in USA?

Studying law in the United States

The first LLB degree in the United States was awarded in 1820 by Harvard University. In 1902, the Harvard faculty suggested the JD degree be awarded, but the university didn't accept it until 1969. By 1971, the JD replaced the LLB throughout the country.

Can Indians do LLM in USA?

Yes, you can pursue LLM in the USA after completing your LLB in India. However, you must match the eligibility criteria of the university you choose.

How do I transfer my degree to the US?

You will need a foreign transcript evaluation.

Get your transcript from your school. Then submit it to a transcript evaluation company. You can get a course-by-course evaluation or a general evaluation. This process can take time, start as soon as you can.

Are 3 year degrees recognized in the US?

Is a 3-year Bachelor's degree accepted in the USA? Yes, many universities in the USA accept applicants with 3-year bachelor's degrees. However, it is best to check with your preferred university and school in the USA before applying. And for those that don't, WES may hold the key to your admission to such universities.

Do I need to evaluate my degree in USA?

You usually need your educational credentials evaluated when you are planning to study or work in the United States. Colleges, universities, employers, and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) generally require an educational credentials evaluation.

How do I accredit a foreign degree in the US?

Use a credential evaluation service recommended by the employer, education institution or state licensing authority to which you are applying. If no specific credential evaluation service is recommended, you can search online to identify a credential evaluation service on your own. Credential evaluations are not free.

How can I get job in USA from India after graduation?

One way is to network with people already working in the USA , another way is go via you own company if it has a branch in USA or you can also try applying via Linkedin or other job portals. You can then send your resume to these companies highlighting your relevant skills and work experience.

What degree is best for immigration?

Candidates aspiring to work as an immigration officer need to have a Bachelor's degree in any education field. It is more preferable to pursue a bachelor degree in the field of criminal justice, foreign language, accounting or any other relevant field.

Is law difficult to study in India?

Lengthy and rigorous education: In India, students must complete either a three-year LLB program or a five-year integrated legal curriculum, which can be demanding and time-consuming. Limited practical training: It might be difficult for students to get practical experience before entering the workforce.

What can you do with an LLB in the US?

What Can You Do With a Law Degree?
  • Private Practice. Some work as solo practitioners, others in small or boutique law firms. ...
  • Government. ...
  • Judicial Clerkship. ...
  • Public Interest. ...
  • In-House. ...
  • Law Firm Administration. ...
  • Politics. ...
  • Legal Publishing and Journalism.

Can you do LLB in India and LLM in USA?

Alternatively, you can pursue your LLM if you have a prior law degree such as an Indian LLB – this can help you practice law in your home country or elsewhere, and may qualify you to sit the bar subject to certain considerations.