I am curently under the process of considering getting an llm or jd degree in USA, any advice on that? I am from the Philippines and i also want to be admitted in theNY and California Bar. Thanks and it would be very appreciated.

hi there~

let's start with the JD...
you will have to take the LSAT. i would recommend that you use either study aids (software, books, etc) and/or take a test prep seminar (kaplan offers one). your score on the LSAT and your previous grades will largely determine if you get accepted to the law schools you would like to attend. other factors may play a role as well- such as previous experiences (not necessarily law related), community involvement, and extra curricular activities.

now for the LLM...
it is almost impossible to get in to an american LLM program without a JD, LLB or some other equivalent (of which i am unaware). factors which play a role in a favorable admissions decision include GPA, class rank (standing), and extra-cirricular involvement in organizations such as law review, moot court or the like.

i hope that helps, and good luck!

legal degree is not required for many LLMs see for example Case Law School:

http://lawwww.cwru.edu/curriculum/llm/content.asp?id=365