For generalised LL.M. programmes which allow freedom to design your own curriculum, what is the possibility for someone to take as many first year JD courses as possible (depending on availability of such courses to non JD students) during their LL.M. year with the hope of transferring into the JD later? For e.g. University of Texas requires LL.M. to take at least one first year JD course. Any thoughts?

It all depends on your school policy (admission standard and credits transfer policy). I think you'd better talk to the dean of admission in your law school.

As far as my understanding, those who allow LLMs to transfer to JD without taking LSAT weighted your LLM yr grades a lot!And be aware that it's MUCH difficult to get higher grades in those 1L courses. So you are taking the risk that you might have lower grades.

However, if you are sure you can excel in 1L courses. It will look very strong on your transfer application. I am sure you will definitely have a very strong case.

Good luck!

Just out of curiosity - although my intention is not to transfer to the JD program - why is it more difficult to get good grades in the 1L courses?

My guess is b/c most if not all law schools employ a mandatory curve for JD courses, and the final assessment is based on final year exams which are problem based and/or essay based. By contrast, LL.M. courses are generally marked by way of essays and those essays are policy based rather than the problem type questions. The latter can be difficult especially under stringent time constraints of a final exam.