Becoming a judge in India is a challenging yet rewarding career path. It requires a great deal of hard work, dedication, and a deep understanding of the law. In this article, we’ll discuss the step-by-step process for becoming a judge in India.
Introduction
Judges play a crucial role in the justice system of India. They are responsible for interpreting the law and delivering justice to citizens. Becoming a judge is not an easy task, but it is a highly respected and rewarding career path. In this article, we’ll explore the eligibility criteria, entrance exams, selection process, training, and career path for judges in India.
Eligibility Criteria for Becoming a Judge
Before aspiring to become a judge, it is essential to understand the eligibility criteria set by the government. Here are the requirements for becoming a judge in India:
Educational Qualifications
To become a judge, a candidate must have a degree in law from a recognized university in India. The degree should be a three-year or five-year course in law. A candidate must also be enrolled with the Bar Council of India or a State Bar Council.
Age Limit
The age limit for becoming a judge in India is typically between 21 to 35 years for lower judicial services and between 35 to 45 years for higher judicial services.
Work Experience
A candidate must have practiced as an advocate or worked in a judicial or legal profession for a minimum of 7 years for higher judicial services.
Entrance Exams for Becoming a Judge
After meeting the eligibility criteria, candidates must clear entrance exams to become a judge. There are two main entrance exams:
Judicial Services Examination
The Judicial Services Examination is conducted by state-level public service commissions. This exam is for candidates who want to become civil judges or magistrates. The exam has three stages – preliminary, main, and interview.
Higher Judicial Services Examination
The Higher Judicial Services Examination is for candidates who want to become district judges or judges in higher courts. The exam is conducted by the High Courts of each state. The exam has two stages – written and interview.
Selection Process for Judges
Once a candidate has cleared the entrance exam, they must undergo a rigorous selection process:
Preliminary Exam
The preliminary exam is the first stage of the selection process. It is a multiple-choice question exam that tests a candidate’s knowledge of the law.
Main Exam
The main exam is the second stage of the selection process. It is a written exam that tests a candidate’s understanding of the law and their ability to apply it to real-life situations.
Interview
The final stage of the selection process is the interview. It is conducted by a panel of judges who test the candidate’s suitability for the role.
Training for Judges
After the selection process, successful candidates must undergo training at the National Judicial Academy or State Judicial Academies. The training includes practical training, workshops, and seminars.
After completing the training, judges start their career as civil judges or magistrates. They can gradually progress to higher positions such as district judges, high court judges, and ultimately, judges in the Supreme Court of India.
Salaries of Judges
Judges in India are paid according to the pay scales set by the government. The salary of a judge varies depending on their position and experience. The starting salary for a civil judge is around Rs. 50,000 per month, and it can go up to Rs. 2,50,000 per month for a judge in the Supreme Court of India.
Challenges Faced by Judges
Becoming a judge is not an easy task, and being a judge comes with its own set of challenges. Judges often have to deal with complex legal issues and make difficult decisions. They also have to maintain a high level of integrity and impartiality. Judges may also face criticism and backlash for their decisions.
How many years does it take to become a judge in India?
To become a judge in India, one needs to have a degree in law and must have practiced law for a certain number of years. Typically, it takes around 10-15 years to become a judge in India.
Can we directly become a judge in India?
No, you cannot become a judge directly in India. You need to have a degree in law and have practiced law for a certain number of years.
How can I become a judge after 12th in India?
After completing 12th standard, you need to pursue a five-year integrated law course (BA LLB) to become a judge in India.
What is the qualification for judge exam in India?
To become a judge in India, you need to have a degree in law (LLB) from a recognized university and must have practiced law for a certain number of years.
What is the salary of a judge in India?
The salary of a judge in India varies depending on the level and type of court. On average, a judge in India earns around Rs. 2-3 lakhs per month.
Is it difficult to be a judge in India?
Yes, becoming a judge in India is not easy. You need to have a strong academic background, excellent communication skills, and a thorough understanding of the law.
Can I become judge in India without LLB?
No, you cannot become a judge in India without an LLB degree.
Which subject is best for judge in class 11?
If you are interested in becoming a judge, it is recommended that you take up subjects like Political Science, History, and Economics in class 11.
Which stream is best for law?
The best stream for law is Arts or Humanities. Subjects like Political Science, History, and Economics will be helpful for pursuing a career in law.
What is the most difficult part for a judge?
The most challenging part of being a judge is to deliver justice impartially and without fear or favor. It requires a lot of knowledge, experience, and critical thinking skills.
Which stream is best to become a judge?
As mentioned earlier, the best stream for becoming a judge is Arts or Humanities. This will give you a strong foundation in subjects like Political Science, History, and Economics, which will be useful in pursuing a career in law.
Is it easy to get a job as a judge?
No, it is not easy to get a job as a judge. The selection process is rigorous and competitive, and you need to meet specific qualifications and requirements.
What degree do most judges have?
Most judges have a degree in law (LLB) from a recognized university.
How many types of judges are there in India?
In India, there are two types of judges – District Judges and High Court Judges. District Judges preside over the district courts, while High Court Judges are appointed to the High Court.
Conclusion
Becoming a judge in India is a challenging yet rewarding career path. It requires hard work, dedication, and a deep understanding of the law. The eligibility criteria, entrance exams, selection process, training, and career path for judges in India have been discussed in detail in this article.
FAQs
How long does it take to become a judge in India?
It can take up to 7-8 years to become a judge in India.
What are the educational qualifications required to become a judge in India?
A degree in law from a recognized university in India is required.
What is the age limit for becoming a judge in India?
The age limit is between 21 to 35 years for lower judicial services and between 35 to 45 years for higher judicial services.
What is the salary of a judge in India?
The salary varies depending on the position and experience, with a starting salary of around Rs. 50,000 per month for civil judges and up to Rs. 2,50,000 per month for judges in the Supreme Court of India.
What are the challenges faced by judges in India?
Judges often have to deal with complex legal issues and make difficult decisions. They also have to maintain a high level of integrity and impartiality and may face criticism and backlash for their decisions.
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