The quote humorously questions the competence of a character who holds a law degree, suggesting the qualifications might be given out too easily. It hints at disbelief over how someone could earn such a degree and implies a lack of respect for the person's abilities in the legal field. This critical tone emphasizes the idea that not all qualifications guarantee skills or knowledge.

By comparing law degrees to prizes found in cereal boxes, the author, Alexander McCall Smith, uses a satirical approach to highlight issues in legal education and the varying levels of competence among professionals. The lighthearted commentary serves to provoke thought about the standards and processes of obtaining legal qualifications in society.