Columbia Law School strives to admit individuals to the LL.M. Program who are committed to academic and professional excellence and who, through their prior experience, recommendations, and academic history, demonstrate the qualities and skills necessary for rigorous intellectual engagement. Admission decisions are based not only on your potential but also on your demonstrated motivation and self-discipline. Diversity of all kinds deeply enriches the Columbia student body. Our admissions process welcomes applicants of all backgrounds and professional and life experiences. <br>Any criminal justice system is complex and imperfect but also an essential part of creating a well-functioning civil society. Police, prosecutors, investigators, defense lawyers, judges, and policymakers all play a role in shaping this system to ensure public safety and fair policing, examine the causes and ramifications of mass incarceration, assess criminal statutes, explore alternatives to traditional punishment, reduce recidivism, and provide opportunities for the formerly incarcerated to rebuild their lives.