SC Restores 3-Year Practice Rule for Civil Judges
In News
What Happened
Why It Matters
Background
History & Context
What Changed
- ▶
Eligibility: BEFORE, fresh law graduates could directly apply for judicial service exams without courtroom experience. NOW, candidates must have at least three years of active legal practice or experience as a law clerk.
- ▶
Calculation of Experience: BEFORE, there was no uniform standard for calculating practice time for entry-level judges. NOW, the three years are counted strictly from the date of provisional enrollment with the State Bar Council, not from the date of clearing the All India Bar Examination (AIBE).
- ▶
Certification: BEFORE, no practice certificate was needed for fresh graduate applicants. NOW, candidates must produce a certificate of practice issued by a Principal Judicial Officer or an advocate with at least 10 years of standing, duly endorsed by the court.
Prelims Angle
NCERT Connection
Practice Questions
Q1
With Reference ToWith reference to the Supreme Court's 2025 judgment on Civil Judge (Junior Division) eligibility, consider the following statements: 1. The mandatory three-year practice experience is calculated from the date a candidate passes the All India Bar Examination (AIBE). 2. Experience working as a law clerk to a judge is recognized as valid practice experience under the new rules. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?