If you’re planning to study law abroad, one question decides everything:
👉 Which law degree gives the best return — the US JD, Canadian law degrees, or Germany’s Staatsexamen?
Each system is powerful, respected, and career-defining—but they are not equal. Let’s break them down head-to-head based on salary, difficulty, global value, and career outcomes.
🇺🇸 Juris Doctor (JD) – The Money Champion
What is the JD?
The Juris Doctor (JD) is the mandatory professional law degree in the United States.
Why the JD wins on income
- Access to Big Law firms
- Strong demand in tech, finance, and corporate law
- Highest salary ceiling in the legal world
Top careers after JD
- Corporate & M&A Lawyer
- Intellectual Property Attorney
- Startup & Tech Legal Advisor
- In-House Counsel (FAANG, banks)
Average salary
💰 $90,000 – $200,000+ per year
Downsides
- Extremely expensive tuition
- High competition
- Stressful work culture
Best for:
Students whose top priority is money and global firms.
🇨🇦 Canadian Law Degrees (JD / LLB) – The Balanced Winner
What Canada offers
Canada offers both JD and LLB, with JD now more common.
Why Canada is underrated
- Easier licensing compared to the USA
- Strong demand in immigration and corporate law
- Clear permanent residency pathways for international students
Top careers after Canadian law degree
- Immigration Lawyer
- Corporate & Commercial Lawyer
- Government Legal Advisor
- Compliance & Risk Manager
Average salary
💰 CAD 70,000 – CAD 150,000+
Downsides
- Lower salary ceiling than the US
- Licensing still required province-wise
Best for:
Students who want stability, immigration benefits, and long-term security.
🇩🇪 Germany’s Staatsexamen – The Prestige King
What is the Staatsexamen?
Germany does not use JD or LLB. Law students must pass:
- First State Exam
- Second State Exam
This system is known as one of the hardest legal education paths in the world.
Why Germany stands out
- Extremely respected across Europe
- Direct access to judiciary and prosecution
- Very low or no tuition fees
Top careers after Staatsexamen
- Judge
- Public Prosecutor
- Corporate Legal Counsel
- EU & International Trade Lawyer
Average salary
💰 €70,000 – €160,000+
Downsides
- Requires German language fluency
- Very high failure rate
- Long education timeline
Best for:
Top academic performers seeking prestige and authority, not quick money.
Head-to-Head Comparison: Which One Wins?
| Factor | USA (JD) | Canada (JD/LLB) | Germany (Staatsexamen) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Salary Potential | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Tuition Cost | ❌ Very High | ❌ High | ✅ Low |
| Difficulty | High | Medium | Very High |
| Immigration Benefits | Medium | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Medium |
| Prestige | High | High | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Global Flexibility | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
🔹 Choose JD (USA) if your goal is maximum income and elite law firms
🔹 Choose Canada if you want career + residency + balance
🔹 Choose Germany if you value prestige, authority, and low education cost
There is no universal winner—only the degree that fits your goals, budget, and long-term plan.