Legal education

Legal education is the education of individuals who intend to become legal professionals or those who simply intend to use their law degree to some end, either related to law (such as politics or academic) or business. It includes: first degrees in law, which may be studied at either undergraduate or graduate level depending on the country; vocational courses which prospective lawyers are required to pass in some countries before they may enter practice; and higher academic degrees.

First degrees in law

In many countries, including most of those in the Commonwealth of Nations, the principal law degree is an undergraduate degree, usually known as a Bachelor of Laws (LLB). It is often followed by a series of advanced examinations, apprenticeships, and additional coursework at special government institutes.

Vocational courses

In countries such as the United States and Canada, there is a postgraduate law school program that leads to a professional degree known as the Juris Doctor (JD). Following the JD, prospective lawyers generally must pass the bar exam in the state(s) in which they wish to practice.

Higher academic degrees

Higher degrees are often pursued by those wishing to specialize in a particular area of law or to enter academia. These include the Master of Laws (LLM), the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), and the Doctor of Laws (LLD).

Legal education providers

Legal education providers include not only law schools and university law faculties but also other providers offering vocational courses, professional development courses for practicing lawyers, paralegal training and citizen law-related education.

Legal education and society

Legal education plays a critical role in society, as it is essential for the maintenance of the rule of law. Legal education is also important for the development of a society's economy, as it produces a workforce that is knowledgeable about the law and capable of navigating the legal complexities of the business world.