potential use for a non-ABA JD

Discussion in 'Off-Topic Discussions' started by airtorn, Oct 23, 2004.

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  1. airtorn

    airtorn Moderator

    I think I hit upon one today. I was looking at library science programs for my sister and noticed several schools had joint MLS/JD programs that were directed at people who wanted to work in law libraries.

    For those in the legal profession - Would one really need an ABA JD for this or would an ALA master of library science combined with a non-ABA juris doctorate suffice?
     
  2. nosborne48

    nosborne48 Well-Known Member

    Probably not. Most of the law libraries to which you refer are attached to law schools. They require a J.D. of the chief librarian because that person has faculty status. Not much chance they'd accept a non ABA degree when competition for such positions is so strong.
     
  3. nosborne48

    nosborne48 Well-Known Member

    Oh, and for assistant librarian positions, the library science degree alone would probably suffice.
     
  4. Jack Tracey

    Jack Tracey New Member

    If a person such as myself with a MSW degree were to be interested in the areas of Human Rights or Ethics (e.g. Medical Ethics, etc.) then I'd think their credentials would be enhanced by a JD, even if it were not ABA. Strictly speaking, the JD is not required for such work and so even a non-ABA JD would be better than no JD at all. Of course, I also believe that an ABA JD would be a superior credential. I've considered this route myself for just such a purpose and while I've decided on an alternate path, I could understand someone making such a choice.
    Jack
     
  5. nosborne48

    nosborne48 Well-Known Member

    This debate rages from time to time in our own little teacup; whether as an ACADEMIC credential, an unaccredited J.D. is better than no J.D. at all.

    I know a Californian lawyer who taught law from time to time on the basis of his LaVern J.D. Non ABA but R/A and traditionally residential. But I think he taught at another California Bar accredited school, not an ABA school.

    I would speculate (and that's all it is) that a non ABA J.D. MIGHT be a plus IF the holder is a member of a state bar. Otherwise, I think it might serve to call his other credentials into question.

    A nonBar qualifying J.D. is a shanda.
     

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