How To Become a Judge in India, Check Eligibility, Process and Salary

Becoming a judge in India is a prestigious and impactful career path that allows you to uphold justice and contribute to the legal system. If you’re passionate about law and aspire to serve in the judiciary, this guide will provide you with detailed insights into the eligibility criteria, the step-by-step process of becoming a judge, and the expected salary ranges.

Eligibility Criteria To Become a Judge

Becoming a judge in India requires a combination of the right educational background, extensive legal experience, and successful navigation of competitive examinations. Whether you start as a Civil Judge or aim for higher judicial positions, understanding the eligibility criteria, process, and salary expectations will help you pursue this prestigious career path. To become a judge in India, you must meet specific educational qualifications and gain relevant experience. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Educational Qualifications

Bachelor’s Degree in Law (LLB): The first step is to obtain an LLB degree from a recognized university. This can be a 3-year program after graduation or a 5-year integrated program after 12th grade.
Enrollment as an Advocate: After obtaining your LLB degree, you must enroll with a State Bar Council to practice law in India. This involves passing the All India Bar Examination (AIBE) conducted by the Bar Council of India.

Experience Requirements

Judicial Services Examination: Most judges begin their careers by passing the Judicial Services Examination (also known as the Provincial Civil Service-Judicial Examination or PCS-J), which is conducted by state public service commissions or the high courts. Eligibility usually requires a few years of practice as an advocate, typically around 2-3 years.
Higher Judicial Services (HJS): For higher judicial services, candidates need more extensive experience, usually a minimum of 7 years of practice as an advocate.

how-to-become-a-judge-in-india — How To Become a Judge in India

Process To Become a Judge

Complete Required Education
- LLB Degree: Enroll in and complete an LLB program from a recognized law school or university. Engage actively in moot courts, internships, and other practical experiences during your studies.
Gain Legal Experience
- Practice as an Advocate: After enrolling with the State Bar Council and passing the AIBE, start practicing law. Gain experience by working in courts, understanding case laws, and developing your legal expertise.
Clear Judicial Services Examination
- Preparation: Prepare for the Judicial Services Examination by studying subjects like constitutional law, criminal law, civil law, and procedural laws. There are many coaching centers and online resources available to help with preparation.
- Exam Pattern: The exam usually consists of three stages – Preliminary Examination (objective type), Main Examination (subjective type), and a Personal Interview. Some states may also include a language proficiency test.
Training and Probation
- Judicial Academy Training: Upon clearing the Judicial Services Examination, selected candidates undergo training at state judicial academies. This training includes classroom sessions, practical sessions, and internships under senior judges.
- Probation Period: After training, there is usually a probation period during which new judges are closely monitored and assessed before being confirmed in their positions.
Higher Judicial Services
- Further Examinations and Promotions: With experience, judges can appear for Higher Judicial Services exams for promotions to higher posts such as District Judge, and eventually to High Court and Supreme Court positions. Alternatively, experienced advocates can be directly appointed to higher judicial roles based on their merit and reputation.

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Salary Expectations

The salary of a judge in India varies based on the level of the judiciary and experience. Here’s a detailed overview:

Civil Judge (Junior Division):
- Starting Salary: ₹77,840 – ₹1,36,520 per month (varies by state). This includes basic pay, allowances, and other benefits.
- Allowances and Benefits: Judges receive various allowances such as Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), and travel allowances. They are also entitled to medical benefits and official residences in many cases.
District Judge:
- Salary Range: ₹1,44,840 – ₹1,94,660 per month. This varies based on experience, seniority, and the state of service.
- Additional Benefits: Besides the basic pay, district judges enjoy several perks including official vehicles, staff support, and other entitlements.
High Court Judge:
- Salary: ₹2,25,000 per month (plus allowances).
- Perquisites: High Court judges have access to official residences, domestic help, and other substantial benefits.
Supreme Court Judge:
- Salary: ₹2,50,000 per month (plus allowances).
- Perquisites: Supreme Court judges receive numerous benefits including official residences, domestic staff, chauffeurs, and post-retirement benefits.

Conclusion

Judicial positions not only offer attractive salaries and benefits but also come with the immense responsibility of upholding justice and maintaining the rule of law. With dedication, hard work, and a commitment to legal excellence, you can build a rewarding career in the Indian judiciary.

For more detailed guidance and resources on how to become a judge in India, visit Career Launcher, your trusted partner in career development. Here, you will find the support and information you need to excel in your legal career.