Hey Guys,

I am currently an Australian LLB Student who is considering a joint LLM Program which means I could effectively complete my Masters in the United States in six months (as the first six months would also count towards my LLB). How would a US LLM (from a top 20 US Law school) affect my job prospects in Australia? Is it sought after by employers?

A top 20 US LLM would give you good academic status.

However, a US LLM does not entitle you to practice in US nor Australia. Therefore, prospective employees in Australia might not see much value in such degree, provided it does not provide any practical/field experience. Probably, things would be a little different if you pass the California or NY bar exam, and practice in the US for some years.

And even then, you wouldn't be able to practice law in Australia.

As of today, there's still no way to practice in Australia, other than an Australian JD. The most there is, is getting very limited credit transfer, given that laws differ from place to place.