Becoming a judge in India is a prestigious and challenging career path. Judges play a vital role in the Indian legal system, presiding over courts and delivering judgments on various matters. In this article, we will discuss the steps to become a judge in India.
How to Become a Judge in India
Becoming a judge in India requires a combination of education, training, and experience. It is a prestigious and challenging career path that offers excellent opportunities for growth and advancement. By following the above steps, you can become a successful judge and make a significant contribution to the Indian legal system.
Step 1: Obtain a Bachelor’s Degree in Law
To become a judge in India, you must have a Bachelor’s degree in Law (LLB) from a recognized university. The LLB course is a three-year course for graduates from any discipline. Some universities also offer a five-year integrated LLB course for students who have completed their 10+2 with a minimum percentage.
Step 2: Practice as a Lawyer
After completing your LLB degree, the next step is to practice as a lawyer for several years. You can work independently or with a law firm. As a lawyer, you will represent clients in courts, draft legal documents, and provide legal advice on various matters. You can also specialize in a particular area of law, such as criminal law, corporate law, or family law.
Step 3: Clear the Judicial Services Examination
To become a judge in India, you must clear the Judicial Services Examination conducted by the state or central government. The exam tests your knowledge of the Indian legal system, including civil and criminal law, procedural law, and evidence law. The exam also tests your proficiency in local languages.
Step 4: Join the Lower Judiciary
After clearing the Judicial Services Examination, you can join the lower judiciary as a civil judge or a judicial magistrate. The lower judiciary is the first level of the Indian judicial system, and the judges preside over civil and criminal cases in district courts and subordinate courts.
Step 5: Gain Experience
As a judge in the lower judiciary, you will gain experience in handling various cases and delivering judgments. You can also gain experience in administrative work, such as managing court proceedings and supervising court staff. To progress in your career as a judge, you must gain experience and demonstrate your abilities to handle complex cases.
Step 6: Clear the Higher Judiciary Examination
To become a judge in the higher judiciary, such as the High Court or the Supreme Court, you must clear the Higher Judiciary Examination conducted by the state or central government. The exam tests your knowledge of the Indian legal system, including constitutional law, administrative law, and international law. The exam also tests your proficiency in English.
Step 7: Appointed as a Judge
After clearing the Higher Judiciary Examination, you can be appointed as a judge in the higher judiciary by the President of India or the Governor of the state, depending on the level of the court. As a judge in the higher judiciary, you will preside over complex cases and deliver judgments that have a significant impact on society.