University of London LLB Questions

The classes I've enjoyed the most in my college career have been those surrounding reasoning, logic, presentation, and politics. This has led me to develop an interest in studying law. But, living and working and trying to support a family in San Francisco rules out the likelihood of my ever attending a local law school...even the professional evening programs.

After talking with a new coworker of mine, who graduated with his JD from the University of Hawaii, my interest in law has re-emerged. He is not a attorney here in California, and has no desire to practice law. He pursued a JD to add value to his MBA as he climbs the corporate business ladder. Two of his comments stuck with me that now brings me here.

His first comment was a rhetorical question: "If you do not plan to practice law, then where does it matter where you go to law school?" The second was that the best thing he learned in law school was where to go to look up information.

My pursuit of a law degree would be out of personal interest, as I never had the desire to practice law. I just find the field and its underlying mechanics interesting. Whatever added value I would derive from a law degree in my business career would be nice, but not my reason for getting the degree. Also, the resulting research skills would invariably benefit me in countless situations.

What are the opinions of those here about my chasing a LLB from the University of London for the reasons stated above?

All this, of course, depends on my completion of other, non-related USQ studies.

Best regards,

Christian

PS-I am not concerned about the differences in the legal systems of the US and UK, as the underlying mechanics of law are the same and that is my interest.

 

I have been accepted to the University of London's LLM program, so I am somewhat familiar with their LLB program.
If you already have a regionally accredited BA, you can complete their LLB in as little as two years. I think it looks like fun and I am sure it would be a valuable experience.
HOWEVER, there are major differences between the LLB and an American JD. The JD is a much more comprehensive degree because it covers the subject matter contained in the English "vocational" courses, like evidence and procedure, as well as the substantive law. I think I saw where the solicitor's Law Society is trying to convince the New York Bar examiners that an English LLB is the equivalent of the first year of a JD. I think that's about right, given that the JD is usually the second degree earned.
I can't imagine getting a law degree and not qualifying to practice ANYWHERE. At least it should be an option. After all that work, wouldn't you like to be able to sit the Bar exam if you want to?
Don't forget the California Bar registered correspondence courses. They qualify their graduates to take the CA bar and some do seem to pass every year. Not many, but some.
Take a look at www.malet.com for more information about the London LLB in America. www.calbar.org has links to all of the CA registered correspondence courses.
Nosborne

 

I checked out calbar.org and, combined with the advice of said coworker, am currently in the process of checking out JFK University.

Thanks!

Christian