In a landmark ruling on Tuesday, the Supreme Court held that fresh law graduates are no longer eligible to appear for judicial service examinations.
The Court mandated a minimum of three years of legal practice for candidates aspiring to join the judiciary at the entry level.
A bench led by Chief Justice B.R. Gavai and Justice Augustine George Masih delivered the decision, stressing the importance of real-world legal experience in shaping competent judges.
“The appointment of fresh law graduates has led to several difficulties, as noted by multiple high courts. Practical experience in court is essential for ensuring judicial efficiency and competence,” the CJI said during the pronouncement of the judgment.
The ruling specifically applies to entry-level positions of civil judges in the lower judicial cadre, where courtroom exposure is deemed crucial for performing judicial duties effectively.
Blow To Fresh Graduates
The verdict came in response to a petition filed by the All India Judges Association, which raised concerns over the direct recruitment of inexperienced law graduates into the judiciary. The plea highlighted administrative and performance issues observed in lower courts across several states due to the lack of practical legal training among newly appointed judges.
According to the bench, allowing fresh graduates to enter the judiciary without any litigation experience had become a significant impediment to judicial functioning. Reports submitted by various high courts supported this view, citing frequent challenges faced by judges with no courtroom background.
Far-Reaching Implications For Judicial Aspirants
The decision will have a profound impact on judicial service aspirants across India. Traditionally, many law students have aimed for a direct judicial career immediately after graduation. This ruling alters that path, making practical court experience a prerequisite and aligning judicial recruitment with real-world legal competence.
While the detailed judgment is still awaited, the Court’s clear emphasis on improving the quality and readiness of the judiciary signals a shift toward a more experience-based recruitment model.
This verdict may prompt changes in recruitment rules across state public service commissions and judicial academies. Legal education institutions may also have to adjust their guidance and support structures to help graduates gain necessary courtroom exposure before applying for judicial posts.
As the legal fraternity digests this major development, one thing is clear: the road to becoming a judge in India now requires not just knowledge of the law, but time spent practicing it.
(Inputs By Sambhav Sharma)
Read More: Supreme Court, Delhi High Court, States High Court, International
