How To Become a Judge in India After LLB? A Complete Guide

How To Become a Judge in India After LLB?

How To Become a Judge in India After LLB: In India, becoming a Judge is a sought-after career path, highly respected and considered prestigious. This article aims to demystify the process of becoming a Judge, discussing who they are, their roles, and how one can pursue this esteemed profession. Judges preside over court proceedings, carefully listening to arguments from both defendants and prosecutors before delivering verdicts based on applicable laws. For many aspiring young individuals, understanding the steps and requirements to become a Judge is a common inquiry as they set their sights on this revered profession.

What Judges Do?

Judges are professionals appointed to preside over court proceedings, listening to both parties and delivering final verdicts. They rule on questions of law, act as referees between parties, and decide legal disputes. Judges hear allegations, witness testimony, and determine admissibility of evidence, ensuring defendants understand their rights. They also instruct juries and determine guilt or innocence in criminal cases, imposing sentences when needed. In civil cases, they decide liability or damages. Here's a breakdown of how to become a Judge:

How to Become a Judge?

Becoming a judge is a prestigious and rewarding career path that involves a series of steps and qualifications. This guide outlines the journey to becoming a judge, starting from earning a bachelor's degree to qualifying for judicial service examinations. Whether you're currently pursuing your undergraduate studies or considering a career change, understanding the requirements and procedures involved is essential.

How to Become Civil Judge

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How to Become a Supreme Court Judge

To become a Supreme Court Judge, one must be a citizen of India, hold an LLB or LLM, and have been a High Court Judge for at least 5 years or a High Court Advocate for 10 years.

How to Become a High Court Judge

To become a High Court Judge, one must be a citizen of India, hold an LLB or LLM, and have held a Judicial office in India for 10 years or been an advocate of a High Court for 10 years.

Steps to Become a Judge in India After LLB?

Becoming a judge in India after LLB involves several steps. Here's what you need to know:

1. Foundation Knowledge of Law

To start the journey to becoming a judge, you need a good understanding of law. Depending on your education level, the path may differ. If you haven't graduated in law, you'll need to finish your Class 12 studies, preferably in Arts or Humanities. If you want to become a judge after Class 12, you'll need to earn a 5-year LLB or 3-year LLB degree.

2. Gain Practical Experience

After completing your LLB, it's essential to gain 3 year practical experience in the legal field. You can do internships or apprenticeships at law firms, courts, or legal aid organizations.

3. Judicial Service Examinations

After graduating in law, you must take a state judicial service exam. These upcoming judiciary exams assess your legal knowledge, analytical skills, and suitability for a judicial role.

4. Appointment to the Bench

Upon passing the judicial service exam and interview, candidates are recommended for appointment to the bench. The final appointment is made by the President of India.

Roles & Responsibilities after Becoming a Judge

After becoming a judge in India, individuals are assigned to uphold the Constitution and deliver fair justice. Their role is important in maintaining public trust in the legal system. Judges perform various judicial and administrative functions that provide fair and transparent court proceedings. Judges must maintain impartiality, act ethically, and deliver decisions that uphold justice and protect the rights of all parties. Below are some roles and responsibilities after becoming a Judge:

• Interpreting and applying laws: Judges analyse legal provisions, case precedents, and facts to deliver rulings in civil, criminal, and constitutional matters.

• Presiding over court proceedings: They manage courtroom procedures, hear arguments from both sides, and ensure fair trial practices.

• Issuing judgments and orders: Based on evidence and arguments, judges pass reasoned judgments that often serve as precedents.

• Sentencing in criminal cases: In criminal trials, judges determine the appropriate punishment after conviction.

• Ensuring constitutional compliance: High Court and Supreme Court judges ensure that legislative and executive actions follow constitutional boundaries.

• Supervising subordinate courts: Senior judges also oversee the functioning of lower courts and handle administrative decisions.

Types and Levels of Judicial Exams in India For Becoming A Judge After LLB

To become a judge in India, candidates must clear specific judicial exams based on the level of the judiciary:

• Lower Judiciary (PCS-J): Conducted by State Public Service Commissions or High Courts for law graduates. Selected candidates become Civil Judges or Judicial Magistrates, handling civil/criminal matters of lower jurisdiction.

• Higher Judiciary (HJS): Open to lawyers with at least 7 years of experience. Candidates are appointed as District Judges, dealing with more complex legal cases. Promotions from the lower judiciary are also common.

• All-India Judicial Services (AIJS): A proposed national-level exam to centralise and standardise judicial recruitment. It is yet to be implemented.

Salary After Becoming a Judge in India

India’s judiciary holds a position of high respect, and judges are compensated well in line with their responsibilities. Judge salary in India differ based on rank, ranging from Civil Judges in lower courts to the Chief Justice of India at the Supreme Court level.

Additional Tips for Aspiring Judges 

• Understand the Constitution of India and relevant laws.
• Stay updated on legal developments.
• Participate in mooting competitions and legal debates.
• Seek mentorship from experienced judges and legal professionals.
• Maintain high ethical standards and integrity.