How to become a Judge in India
Becoming a judge in India is a noble pursuit, demanding a profound sense of responsibility, ethical judgment, and a commitment to justice. Judges form the bedrock of India's extensive and intricate judicial system, crucial for resolving disputes and upholding the law.
The foundational requirement for aspiring judges is a Bachelor’s degree in Law (LLB), which can be a 3-year or 5-year integrated course from a recognized university. Age limits for judicial exams typically range from 21 to 35 years for the lower judiciary and can extend to 45 years or more for higher positions, varying by state. Indian citizenship is a prerequisite for all judicial roles.
A significant recent development, as of May 2025, mandates a minimum of three years of active legal practice as an advocate for eligibility to entry-level judicial posts (Civil Judge Junior Division). This crucial change aims to equip new judges with practical courtroom experience, encompassing advocacy, law clerkships, or legal aid work. This rule applies to recruitment processes initiated after May 2025.
The Indian judiciary comprises different levels of judges. District Judges preside over trial courts, handling civil and criminal cases at the district level. High Court Judges serve in the highest courts of their respective states, while Supreme Court Judges occupy the apex of the judicial hierarchy, dealing with constitutional matters and appeals.
There are primarily three pathways to becoming a judge. The most common is the Judicial Services Examination route, ideal for those with the requisite legal practice experience. These state-conducted exams are split into Lower Judiciary Exams for Civil Judges and Higher Judiciary Exams for District Judges (requiring a minimum of seven years of practice). Alternatively, experienced advocates with substantial practice can be directly elevated as High Court Judges based on merit. Occasionally, legal scholars or law commission officers may also be appointed.
The Judicial Services Examination process typically involves three stages:
1. Preliminary Examination: An objective-type qualifying round covering general knowledge, current affairs, and core legal subjects like Constitutional Law, the updated criminal codes (Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita - BNS, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita - BNSS), the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA), and Civil Procedure Code (CPC), along with English and aptitude.
2. Mains Examination: A descriptive stage that delves deeper into legal understanding, focusing on writing skills and procedural knowledge across major branches of law.
3. Personal Interview/Viva Voce: This final stage assesses personality, confidence, and analytical thinking through situational and legal dilemma questions.
Key subjects to master include Constitutional Law, the new criminal laws (BNS, BNSS, BSA), Civil Procedure Code, and other relevant state-specific laws. Aspiring judges are advised to utilize bare acts, standard legal textbooks, and consider coaching while emphasizing self-study and strong time management. Practicing judgment writing and gaining courtroom exposure through internships or active legal practice are highly recommended regarding that you can apply on RAJASTHALI LAW INSITITUE .
The life of a judge involves a demanding routine of reading case files, conducting hearings, and writing detailed judgments, all while maintaining strict impartiality and ethical standards. Challenges include heavy caseloads, trial delays, public scrutiny, and potential intimidation. Despite these, it remains a highly respected and impactful profession.
Salaries for judges are attractive, starting from approximately ₹77,840/month for a Civil Judge (Junior) and increasing significantly, with Supreme Court Judges earning around ₹2,50,000/month, plus various allowances, government accommodation, staff, and comprehensive retirement benefits.
In essence, becoming a judge in India requires years of dedicated preparation, deep legal acumen, unwavering integrity, and a genuine desire to uphold justice. The recent emphasis on practical legal experience underscores the evolving demands of this pivotal role in the country's legal system.
