How to Become Judge
Becoming a judge in India requires a strong educational background in law, legal experience, and clearing judicial exams. The process varies depending on whether you aim to be a civil judge (entry-level) or a higher court judge.
Path 1: Becoming a Judge Through the Judiciary Exam (Lower Judiciary – Civil Judge)
If you are a law graduate, the easiest way to become a judge is by clearing the Judicial Services Examination (PCS-J or Civil Judge Exam).
Step 1: Educational Qualification
✔ Complete a Law Degree (LLB) – 3-year LLB after graduation or a 5-year integrated LLB course.
✔ The degree must be from a recognized law university and approved by the Bar Council of India (BCI).
Step 2: Eligibility Criteria
✔ Age Limit: Usually 21–35 years (varies by state).
✔ Work Experience: Some states require 0–3 years of experience as a lawyer, while others allow fresh graduates.
✔ Indian Citizenship is mandatory.
Step 3: Clear the Judiciary Exam (PCS-J)
Each state in India conducts its own Judicial Services Exam, typically in three stages:
1️⃣ Preliminary Exam – Objective-type questions on law, GK, and reasoning.
2️⃣ Mains Exam – Essay-type and law-related questions.
3️⃣ Viva-Voce (Interview) – Personality test and legal knowledge assessment.
After clearing the exam, candidates undergo judicial training before being appointed as a Civil Judge (Junior Division).
Path 2: Becoming a Judge in Higher Judiciary (Direct Appointment & Promotion)
For becoming a High Court or Supreme Court judge, the process is different.
A. High Court Judge
✔ Method 1: Promotion from Lower Judiciary – Senior judges from the lower courts (District Judge) are promoted to the High Court.
✔ Method 2: Direct Appointment as HC Judge
- Must have at least 10 years of experience as an advocate in a High Court.
- Appointed by the President of India in consultation with the Collegium of Supreme Court & Governor of the state.
B. Supreme Court Judge
✔ Must have 5+ years as a High Court Chief Justice OR 10+ years as a High Court judge OR distinguished legal experience.
✔ Appointed by the President of India on the recommendation of the Supreme Court Collegium.
✔ The retirement age is 62 years for High Court judges and 65 years for Supreme Court judges.
Key Skills Required for a Judge
✅ Strong knowledge of the law (Constitutional law, Civil & Criminal law).
✅ Good analytical & reasoning skills.
✅ Impartial & fair decision-making ability.
✅ Excellent communication & judgment skills.
✅ Ethical and unbiased approach to legal matters.
Summary of How to Become a Judge in India
