Supreme Court mandates three year legal practice for judicial service aspirants

THE JHARKHAND STORY DESK

New Delhi, May 20: In a significant ruling set to impact aspiring judges across the country, the Supreme Court on Tuesday mandated a minimum of three years of legal practice as a prerequisite for appearing in entry-level judicial service examinations.

The decision effectively bars fresh law graduates from directly entering the lower judiciary.

Chief Justice B R Gavai, delivering the judgment alongside Justice Augustine George Masih, emphasized that hands-on courtroom experience is vital for judicial competence and efficient functioning.

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The CJI said that multiple high courts have flagged issues arising from the appointment of fresh graduates to judicial posts, and practical exposure is indispensable.

The bench made it clear that this requirement applies specifically to the recruitment of civil judges in the lower division cadre.

The ruling came in response to a petition filed by the All India Judges Association, which had called for reforms in the eligibility criteria for judicial appointments.

The Court’s decision underscores the growing consensus that real-world legal experience is essential for maintaining the quality and credibility of the judiciary.