Steps To Becoming A Judge In India

Becoming a judge in India is a prestigious career that requires dedication, a deep understanding of law, and years of preparation. Judges play a crucial role in the justice system, ensuring fair trials and upholding the rule of law.

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to pursue a judicial career in India:

1. Complete a Law Degree (LL.B.)

The first step to becoming a judge is obtaining a law degree. There are two main pathways to earn an LL.B. in India:

Five-Year Integrated Law Program: After completing Class 12, you can enroll in a 5-year integrated program (B.A. LL.B., B.B.A. LL.B., etc.).
Three-Year LL.B. Program: After completing a bachelor’s degree in any discipline, you can pursue a 3-year LL.B. course.

During your law degree, focus on gaining a strong understanding of legal principles, reading landmark judgments, and developing analytical skills.

2. Clear the Bar Council Examination

After completing your LL.B., you must pass the All India Bar Examination (AIBE) conducted by the Bar Council of India. Clearing this exam gives you a license to practice law and is a prerequisite for appearing in judicial services exams.

3. Gain Practical Experience

Most candidates aspiring to become judges first work as lawyers to gain practical experience. Although not mandatory for all judicial exams, practical legal experience helps you understand court procedures, advocacy, and legal drafting, which are invaluable skills for a judge.

You can:

Work as an advocate in a law firm or practice independently.
Intern with senior lawyers or judges to gain courtroom exposure.

4. Appear for Judicial Services Examination

The most common path to becoming a judge in India is through the Judicial Services Examination (also called PCS-J or Civil Judge Exam). Each state conducts its own examination for lower judiciary positions. There are two types of judicial services:

Lower Judicial Services (LJS): For fresh law graduates or practicing lawyers with no minimum experience requirement.
Higher Judicial Services (HJS): For experienced advocates with a minimum of 7 years of practice.

Judicial Services Exam Process:

Preliminary Examination: Objective-type questions testing knowledge of law and general studies.
Mains Examination: Written examination consisting of descriptive questions on substantive and procedural laws.
Interview/Personality Test: Evaluates a candidate’s aptitude, communication skills, and understanding of law.

States like Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Rajasthan, and Bihar regularly conduct judicial services exams.

5. Higher Judiciary Pathway

For those aiming for higher positions like District Judge or High Court Judge, there are additional steps:

Promotion from Lower Judiciary: Judges in the lower judiciary can be promoted to higher positions based on merit, experience, and seniority.
Direct Recruitment: Experienced advocates (with at least 7 years of practice) can apply for direct recruitment to the position of District Judge through state public service commissions.

6. Becoming a High Court or Supreme Court Judge

Judges of the High Court and Supreme Court are typically appointed through promotion from lower courts or as direct appointments by the President of India in consultation with the Chief Justice of India (CJI) and other senior judges.

Eligibility for High Court Judge:

At least 10 years of experience as an advocate or in judicial services.
Proven legal expertise and integrity.

Eligibility for Supreme Court Judge:

At least 5 years of service as a High Court Judge or 10 years of experience as an advocate in the High Court.
Distinguished record in the legal profession.

7. Continuous Learning and Development

Even after becoming a judge, continuous learning is crucial. Judges must stay updated on new laws, landmark judgments, and amendments to deliver fair and just decisions.

Additionally, ethical conduct, impartiality, and strong decision-making skills are essential qualities for a successful career in the judiciary.

Read About-Online Judiciary Coaching in India

Conclusion

Becoming a judge in India is a fulfilling and prestigious career that requires rigorous academic preparation, legal knowledge, and a passion for justice. By following these steps, aspiring candidates can navigate the pathway to the bench and contribute to upholding the rule of law in India.