Becoming a Judge in India 2025 is one of the most honorable and sought-after career paths in the legal profession. It combines authority, responsibility, and a significant impact on society. This article provides a step-by-step roadmap for law graduates aspiring to join the judiciary, along with information on exams, eligibility, pay scales, and appointment procedures.
Who is a Judge?
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A Judge is a judicial officer who presides over court proceedings, listens to both sides of a dispute, interprets the law, and delivers impartial judgments. Judges are pivotal in upholding the rule of law, protecting rights, and resolving disputes in both civil and criminal matters.
Roles of a Judge:
- Hear civil and criminal cases
- Interpret and apply the law
- Ensure fair trial procedures
- Deliver verdicts and issue sentences
- Guide the jury (if applicable)
Judicial Pay Scales in India
Judges in India are appointed to different levels with corresponding pay structures. Here's a comparison of current and proposed pay scales:
|
Judicial Position |
Current Pay Scale (Rs.) |
Proposed Pay Scale (Rs.) |
|---|---|---|
|
Junior Civil Judge / First Class Magistrate |
27,700 – 47,700 |
77,840 – 1,36,520 |
|
(After 5 years) |
33,090 – 45,850 |
92,960 – 1,36,520 |
|
Senior Civil Judge |
39,530 – 54,010 |
1,11,000 – 1,63,030 |
|
(After 5 years) |
43,690 – 56,470 |
1,22,700 – 1,80,200 |
|
District Judge |
51,550 – 63,070 |
1,44,840 – 1,94,660 |
|
Selection Grade (after 5 years) |
57,700 – 70,290 |
1,63,030 – 2,19,090 |
|
Super Time Scale (3 years after Selection Grade) |
70,290 – 76,450 |
1,99,100 – 2,24,100 |
How to Become a Judge in India?
Here is a step-by-step process to become a Judge after LLB:
|
Step |
Description |
|---|---|
|
Step 1: a Bachelor's Degree |
Complete your 10+2 and pursue a 5-year integrated LLB or a 3-year LLB post-graduation |
|
Step 2: Gain Legal Experience |
Intern with courts, law firms, NGOs, or government offices to build practical exposure |
|
Step 3: Clear Judiciary Exams |
Appear for State Judicial Service Exams (PCS-J) conducted annually |
|
Step 4: Interview & Selection |
Upon clearing mains, qualify the viva voce. Appointment follows on merit |
Types of Judicial Services Exams
There are two categories of judicial services exams:
|
Exam Type |
Eligibility |
|---|---|
|
Lower Judicial Services (LJS) |
LLB degree (3 or 5 years), minimum 21 years age, no prior practice required |
|
Higher Judicial Services (HJS) |
Minimum 7 years of active law practice, age typically 35+ |
How to Become a Civil Judge (Junior Division)
Civil Judges are recruited through Lower Judicial Services Exams conducted by state public service commissions or high courts. Selection is based on:
- Preliminary Exam
- Main Exam (Written)
- Viva Voce (Interview)
States like UP, MP, Rajasthan, Delhi, Bihar, etc., conduct their own annual recruitment exams.
How to Become a High Court Judge?
To be appointed as a High Court Judge under Article 217 of the Constitution, the candidate must:
- Be a citizen of India
- Have at least 10 years of experience as a judicial officer or advocate in a High Court
- Possess sound legal knowledge and integrity
- Be recommended by the Collegium and appointed by the President
How to Become a Supreme Court Judge?
As per Article 124 of the Constitution, a person is eligible if:
- They are a citizen of India
- Have served as a High Court Judge for at least 5 years, or
- Practiced as an advocate in a High Court for at least 10 years, or
- In the President’s opinion, are a distinguished jurist
Eligibility Criteria for Judicial Exams
|
Criteria |
Lower Judicial Service |
Higher Judicial Service |
|---|---|---|
|
Education |
3-year or 5-year LLB |
LLB + 7 years of law practice |
|
Age Limit |
21–35 years (varies by state) |
35–45 years (varies by state) |
|
Citizenship |
Indian |
Indian |
|
Other Requirements |
Knowledge of local laws (e.g., state language, customs) |
Good moral character |
Additional Tips for Aspiring Judges
- Stay updated with recent Supreme Court and High Court judgments.
- Focus on procedural laws like CPC, CrPC, and Evidence Act.
- Practice previous year question papers.
- Participate in moots and debates to develop courtroom confidence.
- Seek mentorship and stay disciplined in preparation.
Conclusion
Becoming a Judge in India after completing your LLB is a challenging yet fulfilling journey. With the right blend of legal knowledge, dedication, and perseverance, one can ascend to the bench and uphold the Constitution and justice.
Whether you're in law school or preparing for judiciary exams, clarity of purpose and strategic preparation are key to success in this noble profession.
