Lead track · Field guide
Judicial services
Civil judges decide cases that shape people’s lives. After a law degree, you can enter the judiciary through your state’s judicial service exam.
LLBrequired
1 yearcourt practice, under the 2026 ruling
March 2027fresh graduates may apply until then
State examfor Civil Judge (Junior Division)
Checked 13 October 2026 · rules and figures change, so confirm with the official links below
What this field is
Judges hear civil and criminal cases in district courts and rise to higher courts. Entry is through each state’s judicial service examination for Civil Judge (Junior Division).
In August 2026 the Supreme Court reduced the practice requirement for new judges from three years to one year of court practice, with further judicial training after selection. Fresh law graduates may still apply until March 2027.
It suits you if:
- You have, or are studying for, a law degree.
- You are fair, patient and careful.
- You can study law in depth for a long time.
Routes, time and cost
| Step | What it involves | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Law degree | 5-year integrated LLB or 3-year LLB — see Law | Enrol with a State Bar Council |
| Court practice | One year of practice (after March 2027) | Check your state’s notification |
| State judicial service exam | Prelims, Mains and interview | Run by the High Court or state PSC |
| Training after selection | Judicial academy training and clerkships | As required by the 2026 ruling |
The rules have changed recently. Always check the latest notification from your High Court before applying.
How to start
- Complete your LLB with strong marks.
- Enrol with your State Bar Council and practise in court.
- Study the bare acts, procedure codes and local laws in depth.
- Solve past judicial service papers and practise judgment writing.
- Apply when your state’s notification is released.
Where it can lead
- Law graduate and advocate
- Civil Judge (Junior Division)
- Civil Judge (Senior Division)
- District Judge and above
“O you who believe, stand firmly for justice, as witnesses for Allah, even against yourselves.” — Qur’an 4:135
Justice is a trust. If you are drawn to it, start building your knowledge of the law now.