Becoming a judge in India is the dream of millions of law students. The position of a judge not only confers respect, prestige, and power, but is also the most important means of establishing justice in society. When a person becomes a judge, they deliver decisions based on the Constitution and law and work to ensure justice for the people. In India, through the Judicial Services, one can become a Civil Judge, Judicial Magistrate, and later, District Judge and High Court Judge.
What is a Judge and What Does It Do?
A judge is an officer who hears cases in court and delivers verdicts based on the law. A judge’s primary job is to listen to both parties, examine the evidence, and then deliver the correct verdict. A judge acts in accordance with the Constitution and the law, and their decisions are binding on all. In India, becoming a judge hears civil, criminal, family, and other legal matters. Becoming a judge commands immense respect in society, and it is considered a highly prestigious government position.
The highest level of the judicia system in India is the Supreme Court of India, followed by the High Court and District Court. Passing the Judicial Services Exam allows you to become a Civil Judge or Magistrate in a District Court, and further promotions can lead to the High Court and Supreme Court.
What are the qualifications to become a judge?
To become a judge, you first need to study law. This means you must have an LLB degree. You can earn an LLB by completing a 5-year integrated course after 12th grade or a 3-year course after graduation. After completing a law degree, you can apply for the Judicial Services Exam.
The general eligibility criteria for becoming a judge are as follows:
First, the candidate must be an Indian citizen. They must have an LLB degree from a recognized university. The candidate’s age should generally be between 21 and 35 years, although age relaxation is available for reserved categories. The candidate must have good character and a good knowledge of the law.
What is the Judicial Services Exam?
The Judicial Services Exam is also known as the PCS(J) Exam. This exam is conducted by the State Public Service Commission. Passing this exam allows you to become a Civil Judge. Each state conducts its own Judicial Exam, such as the UP Judicial Services, MP Judicial Services, Rajasthan Judicial Services, etc.
This exam is conducted in three stages:
The first stage is the Preliminary Exam, which is objective-type. The second stage is the Mains Exam, which is a written exam. The third stage is the interview.
What is the syllabus for the Judicial Services Exam?
To become a judge, you must have a thorough knowledge of law subjects. The Judicial Services Exam primarily covers the following subjects:
- Indian Penal Code (IPC)
- Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC)
- Civil Procedure Code (CPC)
- Indian Evidence Act
- Constitutional Law
- Contract Law
- Transfer of Property Act
- Family Law
How to Prepare for Judicial Services
A proper preparation strategy is crucial to becoming a judge. First, you must understand all the legal subjects, including their concepts. Simply memorizing won’t suffice; you must understand the meaning and application of the law. When studying the IPC, CPC, CrPC, and Evidence Act, you must understand the meaning and application of each section.
The second most important task is to study the Bare Act. The Bare Act is a crucial part of preparing to become a judge. You should read the Bare Act repeatedly and understand it.
The third important task is to solve previous year question papers. This will help you understand the exam pattern and the types of questions asked.
The fourth task is to practice answer writing. In the Mains exam, you have to write long answers, so answer writing practice is very important.
How many years of preparation is required to become a judge?
Becoming a judge generally requires 2 to 3 years of preparation. Some students begin preparing during their LLB degree, which leads to early selection. If you study 6 to 8 hours daily and prepare with the right strategy, you can pass the Judicial Services Exam.
What is the salary after becoming a judge?
Becoming a judge offers a very good salary. A civil judge’s salary ranges from approximately ₹70,000 to ₹100,000 per month. Additionally, they receive a government house, car, security, and other perks.
As promotions occur, the salary and perks increase.
Becoming a District Judge can earn upwards of ₹1.5 lakh.
How is promotion after becoming a judge?
After becoming a judge, you can become a Senior Civil Judge, District Judge, or High Court Judge through promotion.
After becoming a High Court Judge, you can also become a Supreme Court Judge.
This promotion is based on your experience and performance.
The Most Important Tips for Becoming a Judge
To become a judge, you must first study law subjects with concepts. Read the Bare Act repeatedly. Practice answer writing daily. Solve previous year question papers. Revise regularly.
Most importantly, you must be patient, as judicial exams are difficult and time-consuming.
How to Prepare for the Judicial Services Interview
After you pass the Prelims and Mains exams, the interview takes place. The interview is the final stage of the Judicial Exam and is very important because it tests your personality. In the interview, you will be asked questions related to law and current affairs.
Confidence is the most important factor in an interview. When you appear for the interview, you should remain calm and answer each question thoughtfully. If you don’t know the answer to a question, it’s better to say you don’t know it rather than giving the wrong answer. The interview panel considers your knowledge as well as your behavior and personality.
What are the benefits of becoming a judge?
Becoming a judge brings you immense respect in society. You have the security of a government job, a good salary, and benefits. You have the authority to administer justice in society. The position of a judge is considered one of the most respected positions in India.
Conclusion
Becoming a judge is a lofty and honorable goal. It requires law study, the right strategy, and consistent hard work. By passing the Judicial Services Exam, you can become a civil judge, and later even a High Court or Supreme Court judge. If you prepare properly, study the Bare Act, practice answer writing, and work hard, you can definitely become a judge.