An Exclusive Interview with a Legal Recruitment Expert
In today’s competitive legal landscape, the pursuit of an LL.M. (Master of Laws) has become increasingly common. But do law firms truly care about it? Does it enhance a lawyer’s career prospects, or is it just an academic flex? Legal Africa sat down with James Kofi Mensah, a seasoned legal recruiter and managing partner at LexHire Consulting, to separate myth from reality.
Legal Africa (LA): Let’s get straight to it—do law firms actually care about an LL.M.?
James Kofi Mensah (JKM): That’s the million-dollar question! The short answer is: it depends. Some firms highly value an LL.M., while others barely consider it when making hiring decisions. It all boils down to where you earned it, what specialization you chose, and how it aligns with the firm’s needs.
For instance, if a candidate has an LL.M. in International Arbitration from Queen Mary University of London, a top-tier global firm handling cross-border disputes would see that as a significant asset. On the other hand, a small corporate law firm in Accra may not find an LL.M. as relevant as practical experience in Ghanaian business law.
LA: So, would you say an LL.M. is necessary for career progression?
JKM: Not necessarily. An LL.M. can be beneficial, but it’s not a golden ticket. In reality, firms prioritize work experience and practical legal skills over additional degrees. Many successful lawyers rise to the top without an LL.M. because they build expertise through casework, mentorship, and networking.
However, in some cases, an LL.M. can open doors—especially for lawyers transitioning to a new jurisdiction or practice area. If you’re a Ghanaian lawyer who wants to practice in the U.S., getting an LL.M. from Columbia or NYU can help you qualify for the New York Bar Exam, which is a huge advantage.
LA: Are there specific areas of law where an LL.M. makes a difference?
JKM: Absolutely. Some specializations hold more weight than others. For instance:
- Tax Law: An LL.M. in Taxation (e.g., from Georgetown Law) is highly regarded because tax law is complex and constantly evolving.
- Intellectual Property (IP) Law: With the rise of tech startups and digital assets, IP lawyers with specialized LL.M.s are in demand.
- Human Rights & International Law: If you’re aiming for the UN, NGOs, or international organizations, an LL.M. from Geneva Academy or Leiden University is a strong asset.
- Banking & Finance Law: LL.M. graduates from institutions like LSE or Harvard are often sought after by major financial law firms.
LA: Do law firms care about which university the LL.M. is from?
JKM: Oh, absolutely! Prestige matters. Law firms, especially in Africa, tend to respect LL.M.s from top global institutions—think Harvard, Oxford, Cambridge, Yale, NYU, LSE. Graduating from these schools signals to firms that you’ve been trained in a rigorous, world-class legal environment.
However, this does not mean other LL.M.s are worthless. It’s all about leveraging your degree strategically. If you studied at a lesser-known university, your networking, research work, and internships will be key to standing out.
LA: Are African law firms paying more attention to LL.M.s now?
JKM: Slowly, but yes. Traditionally, African firms emphasized local expertise over foreign degrees. But with globalization, cross-border transactions, and the expansion of African economies, firms are warming up to lawyers with international legal education—especially in sectors like energy law, fintech, and arbitration.
That said, an LL.M. alone won’t get you a job. You need experience, connections, and a deep understanding of local laws. The best strategy? Blend global knowledge with local expertise.
LA: So, final verdict—should a lawyer invest in an LL.M.?
JKM: My advice? Don’t pursue an LL.M. just for the sake of it. Do it if:
- It aligns with your career goals and will give you a competitive edge.
- You want to qualify in another jurisdiction (e.g., U.S. or U.K.).
- You’re entering a specialized field where an LL.M. is an industry standard.
- You can access top-tier schools or scholarship opportunities.
Otherwise, focus on gaining practical experience, networking, and mastering the business of law. Sometimes, a well-placed internship or strong client relationships will do more for your career than an expensive degree.
LA: That’s a powerful conclusion. Any last words for young lawyers?
JKM: Yes—think strategically. In today’s legal world, skills, adaptability, and networking often matter more than just credentials. An LL.M. can be valuable, but it’s how you use it that makes the difference.
At Legal Africa, we believe in equipping legal professionals with real-world insights. Whether you’re considering an LL.M. or mapping out your legal career, the key takeaway from this interview is clear: strategy beats prestige. What do you think? Is an LL.M. worth it for you? Let’s continue the conversation. #LegalAfrica
