How to Become a Judge in India: A Step-by-Step Guide to Advance Your Legal Career

Order, order! Does this sound excite you? Have you watched “Jolly LLB” and wanted to be one like “Judge Tripathy”? But have you ever thought about “how to become a judge in India” or looking for an answer on how to become a judge in India? Then you are on the right page! But what’s a gavel, you ask? It is the wooden hammer that a judge stomps when he asks the courtroom to be in order. If you’re an aspiring law freak, you must already know about it!

Becoming a judge in India is a noble and rewarding career. It requires a passion for justice and a commitment to upholding the rule of law. Judges play a vital role in the Indian legal system, ensuring that justice is served, and the rights of citizens are protected. However, the road to becoming a judge in India is not an easy one. It requires a significant amount of education, training, and dedication.

If you find this page too long, boring & sleep-inducing, you’ll be better off without taking a chance at legal studies! Else, let the experts assure you now.

Who is a judge?

A judge presides over legal proceedings and applies the law to decide the case. They can be appointed or elected officials. Judges are legal professionals who uphold justice and fairness. They are appointed or elected to their positions. Their role is to ensure impartiality in their rulings. They play a crucial role in maintaining the rule of law and ensuring that disputes are resolved fairly and equitably.

What does a judge do?

The judge oversees legal proceedings. They handle civil and criminal cases. A Judge makes decisions based on the law and evidence in court. Here are some specific tasks that judges may perform:

1. Preside over court proceedings: A judge presides over legal proceedings. They oversee pretrial hearings, trials, and sentencing. The judge’s role is to ensure fair and just proceedings.
2. Interpret and apply the law: Judges must have a deep understanding of the law and apply it to the facts of a case to make a decision.
3. Determine the admissibility of evidence: Judges must decide whether the evidence presented in court is admissible and should be considered by the jury or judge.
4. Rule on objections: Lawyers may raise objections during a trial, and judges must rule on whether they are valid or not.
5. Instruct the jury: In a trial by jury, the judge is responsible for instructing the jurors on the law that applies to the case.
6. Determine guilt or innocence: In a criminal trial, the judge must determine whether the defendant is guilty or not guilty based on the evidence presented.
7. Impose sentences: If a defendant is found guilty, the judge must impose a sentence that is appropriate for the crime committed.
8. Resolve disputes: Judges may also be called upon to resolve disputes outside of the courtroom, such as in mediation or arbitration.

Why become a judge?

There are several reasons why someone may choose to become a judge:

1. Serve the community: One of the most compelling reasons to become a judge is the opportunity to serve the community and make a difference in people’s lives. By applying the law fairly and impartially, judges play a crucial role in upholding the principles of justice and ensuring that disputes are resolved fairly.
2. Intellectual challenge: Becoming a judge requires a high level of legal knowledge and analytical skills. For individuals who enjoy intellectual challenges and problem-solving, a career in the judiciary can be very rewarding.
3. Job security: Judges typically have job security and are appointed or elected to their positions. This provides a level of stability and financial security that may not be available in other legal professions.
4. Respect and prestige: Judges are highly respected members of society, and the role carries with it a level of prestige and authority. This can be appealing to individuals who value social status and recognition.
5. Personal fulfillment: For some individuals, the opportunity to work in the legal profession and make a difference in people’s lives can be personally fulfilling and rewarding.

Popular specialization in the judge

In India, several types of judges preside over different types of cases and legal proceedings. In this section, we will elaborate types of judges in India to help you decide which specialization you can choose –

1. Supreme Court Judges: The Supreme Court of India is the highest in the country, and its judges are appointed by the President of India. The court hears appeals from lower courts and has jurisdiction over matters of national importance.
2. High Court Judges: Each state in India has its own High Court, which hears appeals from lower courts within that state. High Court judges are appointed by the President in consultation with the Chief Justice of India and the Governor of the state.
3. District Judges: District Judges are responsible for presiding over trials and other legal proceedings in the district courts, which are the lowest tier of the judiciary. They are appointed by the state government.
4. Civil Judges: Civil Judges are responsible for hearing civil cases, such as disputes over property, contracts, and family matters.
5. Criminal Judges: Criminal Judges are responsible for hearing criminal cases, such as those involving murder, theft, and other crimes.
6. Sessions Judges: Sessions Judges preside over Sessions Courts, which hear serious criminal cases such as murder, rape, and kidnapping. They are appointed by the state government.
7. Magistrates: Magistrates are responsible for presiding over lower-level criminal and civil courts, such as municipal courts and small claims courts. They are appointed by the state government.

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Skills required to become a judge

To understand how to become a judge, first, you need to understand what are skills required to become a judge. A range of skills that are essential to effectively perform the duties of the position. Here are some of the key skills required to become a judge in India:

1. Legal knowledge: Judges must have a deep understanding of the law, including its history, principles, and application. They must be able to interpret complex legal documents and apply legal precedents to new cases.
2. Analytical and critical thinking: Judges must be able to analyze facts and evidence, identify legal issues, and make reasoned and logical decisions. They must be able to think critically and objectively and be able to evaluate evidence and arguments impartially.
3. Communication skills: Judges must be able to communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing. They must be able to articulate legal principles and decisions clearly and concisely and be able to explain complex legal concepts to juries and laypeople.
4. Impartiality: Judges must be impartial and objective, and must be able to make decisions based solely on the facts and the law. They must be able to put aside personal biases and prejudices and ensure that all parties receive a fair and just hearing.
5. Attention to detail: Judges must have a keen eye for detail, and must be able to scrutinize legal documents and evidence for accuracy and completeness. They must be able to identify and correct errors and ensure that all legal procedures are followed.
6. Time management: Judges must be able to manage their time effectively, and handle a high volume of cases and legal documents. They must be able to prioritize tasks, manage their workload, and meet deadlines

Now let’s answer the most researched question, how to become a judge in India…

Steps to become a judge in India

Becoming a judge in India requires high education, training, and experience. Here are the general steps that one can take to become a judge in India:

1. Obtain a law degree: The first step to becoming a judge in India is to obtain a law degree from a recognized university. To pursue a law degree, one must complete 10+2 with a minimum of 50% marks and then clear an entrance exam such as CLAT or AILET to get admission to a law college.
2. Gain experience as a lawyer: After obtaining a law degree, one must gain practical experience by working as a lawyer. Typically, a candidate must have at least 7 years of experience as an advocate to be eligible to become a judge.
3. Clear the Judicial Services Examination: To become a judge, one must clear the Judicial Services Examination conducted by the state public service commission. This exam tests candidates on their knowledge of the law and their ability to apply it to real-life situations. Candidates who clear the exam are then interviewed by a selection committee.
4. Get appointed as a judge: After clearing the Judicial Services Examination and the interview, the candidate may be appointed as a judge by the Governor of the state, in consultation with the Chief Justice of the High Court.
5. Further advancement: After gaining experience as a judge, one may be eligible for further advancement within the judicial system. For example, a district judge may be promoted to the position of a High Court judge, and a High Court judge may be promoted to the position of a Supreme Court judge.

Eligibility criteria to become a judge

First, after acquiring a degree in Law (LLB or BALLB/ BCom LLB/ BSc LLB/ BBA LLB), you will have to clear the All-India Bar Examination (AIBE) which is conducted by the Bar Council of India.

(All India Bar Examination is conducted to examine a candidate’s caliber to practice Law in India.)

To become a District Judge, you will have to appear for States Judicial Service Examinations which is the entry-level exam for law graduates to become members of the subordinate Judiciary (Judge of District Court- Entry Level).

Judicial Services Exam, which is also called the Provincial Civil Service examination or State Judicial Service Examination, is an entry-level examination for law graduates to become a member of the subordinate judiciary. The exam is conducted by the state judicial branch and thus the examination structure varies from state to state. 

The State Judicial Service Examination is conducted in three stages- Preliminary examination, Mains exam, and Viva/Personal Interview.

Judicial Services Exam, which is also called the Provincial Civil Service examination or State Judicial Service Examination, is an entry-level examination for law graduates to become a member of the subordinate judiciary. The exam is conducted by the state judicial branch and thus the examination structure varies from state to state. 

The State Judicial Service Examination is conducted in three stages- Preliminary examination, Mains exam, and Viva/Personal Interview.

The first stage i.e. the Preliminary Examination consists of two papers. Paper I carries 150 marks and Paper II carries 300 marks. 

• Paper I – General Knowledge
  • Aptitude
  • Current Affairs & Reasoning
  • English Comprehension 
  • Précis Writing 
• Paper II – Law 
  • Jurisprudence
  • Indian Constitution
  • Transfer of Property Act
  • Indian Evidence Act
  • Indian Penal Code
  • Civil Procedure Code
  • Criminal Procedure Code
  • Law of Contract

The second stage i.e. the Mains Examination consists of four to five papers (in several states) 

Paper I – General Knowledge & Language 

• • Current Affairs
  • General Knowledge
  • Essay
  • Translation
  • Precis Writing
  • Translation (Varies according to the state regional language) 

Please note that Papers II to Paper IV are all Law subjects mentioned below (not strictly in the same order as the structure varies according to the state):

• Indian Contract Act
• Indian Sale of Goods Act
• Indian Partnership Act
• Specific Relief Act
• Civil Procedure Code
• Law of Evidence
• Law of Limitation & Law of Registration
• Criminal Procedure Code,
• Indian Penal Code
• Indian Evidence Act

The Viva Voce/ Personal Interview test the suitability of a candidate for the State Judicial Services Examination. It may assess the following attributes in a candidate (these are only indicative and do not comprise all the criteria):

• Analytical and logical abilities
• Balance of judgment
• Compassion and empathy
• Critical abilities
• Deductive and Inductive Reasoning abilities
• Ethical thinking
• Integrity and morality

Read more details below

The State Judicial examination offers Lower Judicial Services and Higher Judicial Services. Eligibility requirements differ for each state. For Lower Judiciary Services, a law degree is needed, with no prior experience required. The age range is 21-35 years. For Higher Judicial Services (HJS), a law degree and at least seven years of litigating practice are required. After clearing the HJS exam, ten years of practice in a subordinate court under the Judicial Service of the State is necessary to be eligible for nomination as a High Court Judge.

Supreme Court Judges are recommended by the Collegium of the Supreme Court. The President of India gives the final consent after consulting the Ministry of Law. To be elected as a Supreme Court Judge, one must be 65 years old or younger and have at least ten years of experience as an advocate in the High Court or two equivalent session courts. The number of years of experience required to become a Judge varies by state. The Union Public Service Commission publishes an Annual Calendar with exam dates for candidates to stay informed.

Educational fees structure for becoming a judge in India

The fee structure for becoming a judge in India varies depending on the education and training required to pursue this career. Here is an approximate breakdown of the fees involved:

1. Law degree: The fees for a law degree program in India vary depending on the institution and the course. On average, a three-year LLB program may cost between INR 50,000 to INR 1 lakh per year, while a five-year integrated law program may cost between INR 1 lakh to INR 2.5 lakh per year.
2. Judicial Services Exam: The fees for the Judicial Services Exam vary from state to state, but typically range between INR 500 to INR 1000 per application.
3. Training: After clearing the Judicial Services Exam, candidates who are appointed as judges may need to undergo training at the Judicial Academy. The fees for this training program vary depending on the institution and the duration of the course but may range between INR 20,000 to INR 50,000.
4. Additional courses: Some judges may choose to pursue additional courses to enhance their skills and knowledge. The fees for these courses vary depending on the institution and the duration of the course but may range between INR 10,000 to INR 50,000.

Job Opportunities after becoming a judge

You can become a judge at various levels of the Indian Judiciary System:

• District Judge (Entry Level)
• Civil Judge (Junior Division)
• Criminal Judge (Junior Division)

After a degree in law and becoming a member of the Bar Council of India, you may appear and qualify State Judicial Service Exam to be eligible for the position of a District Judge (Entry Level), Civil Judge (Junior Division), or Criminal Judge. Practicing as a District Judge in an entry-level position or a Junior Division Civil Judge or a Criminal Judge in Junior Division you may be promoted to the work of senior and super senior divisions in the respective job positions. You can further appear and clear the Higher Judicial Services Examinations for which a minimum of seven years of litigating practice is required. You will be promoted to senior-level positions as you clear the second level of Judicial Services i.e. Higher Judicial Services. With more years in litigating practice, you can expect more and more opportunities in senior-level positions.

Recruitment Process

District Judge (Entry Level)/Civil Judge (Junior Division)/ Criminal Judge – You will be appointed through Direct Recruitment to become a District Judge (Entry Level)/Civil Judge (Junior Division)/ Criminal Judge via the State Judicial Service Examination. The Competitive Examination consists of Preliminary Test, Written Examination followed by a Viva-voce/ Personality Test. To be eligible for Judicial Officer in the rank of District Judge (Entry Level)/Civil Judge (Junior Division)/Criminal Judge you must have been practicing as an advocate for not less than 7 years. On being selected, you will be on Probation period for two years from the date on which you join duty

The appointment of District Judges in any state is made by the governor of the state in consultation with the High Court exercising jurisdiction over that state.

High Court Judge

The selection process/nomination of a High Court Judge depends on the decision made by the collegium. (A collegium is a group of the Chief Justice of India, the four most senior judges of the court, and the senior-most judge addressing from the high court of a prospective appointee.) The chief justice of the High Court may recommend some of the District Judges or Civil Judges for the position of the High Court Judge and may also recommend senior practicing lawyers to become a Judge. The Chief Justice of the High Court is appointed by the President with the consultation of the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court and the Governor of the State.

To be a Judge in High Court, you should be a citizen of India, have at least ten years held a judicial office, or have at least been an advocate of a High Court for ten years or two or more courts in succession.

Supreme Court Judge

A judge is appointed to the Supreme Court by the president of the country on the recommendation of the collegium. The collegium of the Supreme Court might recommend some of the Chief Justices or the High Court Judges to be inducted as a Judge in the Supreme Court. You are eligible to become a Judge in Supreme Court if you are a citizen of India less than 65 years ago, a Judge of one high court or more, for at least five years, an advocate for at least ten years, or an eminent jurist, in the opinion of the president.

Some of the judges in subordinate or lower or district courts after long years of service will be nominated to become High Court Judges. After having gained a set number of years in service you may be recommended as Chief Justice of the High Court by the President along with the consultation of the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court and the Governor of the State.

Salary of a judge in India

According to the 7th Pay Commission, the following are the starting and maximum salaries of the following judicial officers:

• As a Civil Judge Junior Division, you would get around Rs. 77,840 – 1,25,800 per month.
• As a Civil Judge Senior Division, you would get around Rs. 1,11,080 – 1,51,770 per month.
• As a District Judge (Entry Level) you would get around Rs. 1, 44,860 – 1,77,230 per month.
• As a District Judge (Selection Grade) you would get around Rs. 1,62,140 – 1,97,520 per month.
• As a District Judge (Super Time Scale) you would get around Rs. 1, 97,520 – 2,14,830 per month.
• As a Judge of the High Court, your monthly earnings would be Rs.2, 25,000.
• As a Chief Justice of the High Court, your monthly earnings would be Rs.2, 50,000.
• As a Supreme Court Judge, your monthly earnings would be Rs.2, 50,000.
• As a Chief Justice of India, your monthly earnings would be Rs.2, 80,000.

Career progression in this profession

To become a Judge in India, you need several years of practice and experience. After seven years of litigating, you can appear for the Higher Service Judicial Exam and practice as a senior advocate. With ten years of judicial office or practice in the High Court or multiple such courts, you can be recommended for a Judge in the High Court. To be eligible for a Supreme Court Judge, you need at least five years as a High Court Judge or ten years as an advocate in the high court or be an eminent jurist. Promotions and recommendations are typically based on years of practice and performance and are made by senior Judges, Governors, Chief Justices, and the President of India.

Epilogue

I’m sure you know, becoming a judge is no cakewalk. And probably that is why many want to try it. It takes years of practice, preparation, and professional training/ experience. The Indian Judiciary is perceived as lagging behind in various aspects. As a result, students are becoming less enthusiastic about pursuing this discipline. Another contributing factor is the potential automation of the litigation ecosystem, which could affect positions from advocates to senior levels. However, career planning at all stages of life is an extremely tricky process and has its tribulations. Availing expert advice is recommended.

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• State Civil Services Officer Group A

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