How to Become a Judge after CLAT?

After successfully completing your law degree through CLAT, the journey to becoming a judge involves clearing the judicial services exams conducted by the state public service commissions. These exams assess your knowledge of law, aptitude, and suitability for the role of a judge. Once you pass these exams, you may be appointed as a judge in the lower courts. From there, with experience and further qualifications, you can aspire to become a judge in higher courts, such as the High Court or even the Supreme Court. It's an exciting and rewarding career path that allows you to contribute to the legal system and uphold justice. Keep in mind that the specific requirements and processes may vary depending on the country or state you're in.

Are you passionate about law and dream of wearing the judge's robe? In this article, we will uncover the path to becoming a judge after clearing CLAT, the most popular law entrance exam in India. From the essential steps to the qualities you need, get ready to embark on a journey towards the honourable bench. Let's dive in and explore the fascinating world of judicial careers!

Also Read:How To Become A Lawyer After CLAT?

Who is a Judge?

A judge is an individual who presides over the court proceedings, either alone or as a part of a panel of judges. In the judicial realm, becoming a judge is considered to be the biggest achievement. 

Embarking on a judicial path is a commendable journey, entailing the duty of maintaining justice and fairness. For numerous hopeful judges, completing either a 5-year or 3-year LLB degree serves as a crucial initial phase toward entering this esteemed field. Although an LLB degree alone doesn't directly confer entry to the judiciary, it establishes a strong basis for a prosperous legal career that may eventually lead to a judgeship. 

Being a judge is among the country's most prestigious and respected professions. If you want to become a judge in India, you first need to be a lawyer, as only after completing your law degree will you be eligible to become a judge. 

Eligibility to Become a Judge in India 

The question of how to become a judge in India is very popular amongst legal aspirants. To qualify as a judge in India, obtaining a bachelor's degree in law is a prerequisite. Alternatively, individuals with a minimum of seven years of legal practice, whether as a pleader, public prosecutor, or advocate, are also eligible. Citizenship in India and maintaining a good moral character are additional requirements.

Aspiring judges must pass the state judiciary examination conducted by the State Public Service Commission. Following the written examination, candidates are selected based on merit, proceeding to the interview and viva voce rounds. After successful completion, selected candidates undergo a year-long training and are appointed as metropolitan or judicial magistrates.

Following a mandatory three-year service as judicial magistrates, individuals become eligible for appointment as district judges. Further advancement to higher judiciary roles, such as in the High Court or Supreme Court, is possible through application and promotion.

How to Become a Judge after CLAT?

To qualify for a judgeship in India after CLAT, individuals must meet specific criteria. Here's a breakdown:

• Initially, aspiring judges must pass their class 12th board exams with a minimum of 60% aggregate marks or an equivalent CGPA.
• Following that, they need to succeed in a national or university-level entrance exam, such as CLAT, to pursue law from esteemed institutions.
• Upon clearing the CLAT exam, they should enroll in an LLB course or an equivalent undergraduate law degree of their choice.
• After completing the undergraduate law degree, it's advisable, though not mandatory, to obtain an LLM degree. Candidates pursuing LLM need a bachelor's degree in law from a recognised university or college with a minimum of 55% aggregate in final examinations. They might also need to qualify an entrance exam for LLM admission.
• To become a judge in India, individuals must take the Judicial Services Examination or PCS (J), also known as the Provincial Civil Service Judicial Examination. This exam is designed for law graduates aspiring to practice in the subordinate judiciary.
• While the journey to becoming a judge is long and demanding, with the right qualifications and adherence to eligibility criteria, it can be accomplished.

Step by Step Guide to Become a Judge after CLAT 

Here's a step-by-step guide to become a judge after clearing CLAT:

• 1. Pursue a UG Law Course: After clearing CLAT, enrol in a five-year integrated law course or an LLB course offered by reputed law colleges. Apart from the National Law Universities (NLUs), many other law colleges accept CLAT for their UG and PG admission process.
• 2. Excel in Your Studies: Focus on your academics and strive for excellence throughout your law school journey. Build a strong foundation in various areas of law, including constitutional law, criminal law, and civil law.
• 3. Gain Practical Experience: Participate in moot court competitions, internships, and legal research projects to gain practical exposure. This will enhance your understanding of the legal system and develop essential skills.
• 4. Prepare for Judicial Services Exams: Start preparing for the judicial services exams conducted by state public service commissions. These exams assess your knowledge of law and aptitude for the judicial role.
• 5. Clear the Judicial Services Exams: Study diligently, practice solving previous years' question papers, and stay updated with current legal affairs. Clearing the judicial services exams will qualify you for judicial appointments.
• 6. Join as a Judicial Officer: Upon clearing the exams, you'll be appointed as a judicial officer. Begin your career as a magistrate or a civil judge and gain valuable experience in the courtroom.
• 7. Progress in Your Career: Through dedication and hard work, continue to excel in your role as a judicial officer. With experience, you can progress to higher positions, such as a district judge or a high court judge.

Remember, the journey to becoming a judge requires perseverance, continuous learning, and a passion for justice. 

Also Read: Private Law Colleges in India Accepting CLAT 2024

How to Apply for CLAT to Become a Judge?

Applying for the CLAT exam is a straightforward process. Candidates who meet the CLAT eligibility criteria can submit its application form online. Here's the guide on how to apply for CLAT in order to become a judge:

• 1. Registration: Visit the official CLAT website and register yourself by providing the required details. Make sure to create a unique login ID and password.
• 2. Fill the Application Form: Log in using your credentials and fill out the CLAT application form. Provide accurate personal, educational, and contact information as per the instructions.
• 3. Upload Documents: Upload scanned copies of your photograph, signature, and any other required documents as specified in the application form.
• 4. Pay the Application Fee: Pay the application fee online through the available payment options. The fee amount may vary, so check the official website for the current fee details.
• 5. Submit the Application: Review all the details you have entered, and if everything looks good, submit the application form.
• 6. Download and Print: After successful submission, download and print a copy of the filled application form for future reference.

Remember to keep track of important dates, such as the application deadline and exam date, as mentioned on the official CLAT website. 

Also Read: CLAT Rank vs NLU 2024: Cut off, Marks, Result Analysis

Is CLAT Mandatory to Become a Judge?

CLAT, which stands for the Common Law Admission Test, is an entrance exam that law aspirants take to secure admission into law colleges. While CLAT can be beneficial in pursuing a law degree, it is not mandatory to become a judge. To become a judge, you typically need to clear the judicial services exams conducted by state public service commissions. These exams assess your knowledge of law and aptitude for the judicial role. So, while CLAT can help you secure admission to a reputed law college for UG or PG education, it is not a direct requirement for a career in the judiciary. Students need a law degree to become a judge and that can be achieved through CLAT or other law exams such as AILET, TS LAWCET, MH CET Law, etc. Some law colleges also provide direct admission based on merit.

Also Read: CLAT Marks Vs Rank 2024: CLAT Score and Result Analysis

Skills Required to Become a Judge

The legal realm offers abundant possibilities, yet a coveted aspiration for those seeking to positively influence the country's legal landscape is to pursue a career as a judge. Being a judge goes beyond adjudicating cases; it represents a source of profound pride and honour. Judges in India enjoy elevated status, bear significant responsibilities, and command immense respect. To get such a supreme position is very challenging, only clearing the exams and the training process is not enough. Students also need to acquire some skills to be eligible to become a judge. These skills need to be acquired into the individual's personality even before or during their journey as a judge. Given below, we have provided some of the skills required to be a judge in India.

1. Absorbing and Clarifying Information: Swiftly absorbs information to pinpoint crucial issues, fosters a clear understanding, and resolves uncertainties by actively seeking and exploring information.

2. Collaboration: Conducts proceedings appropriately, values diversity, and demonstrates empathy and sensitivity while cultivating relationships.

3. Exercising Judgment: Upholds integrity, and applies independent thinking to render sharp, fair, and legally sound decisions.

4. Acquiring and Developing Knowledge: Possesses an intricate understanding of relevant jurisdiction, law, and practice, showcasing an ability and willingness to continuously learn and grow professionally.

5. Efficient Work Management: Operates effectively, strategically plans, and optimizes the utilization of available resources.

6. Effective Communication: Exhibits strong oral and written communication skills, conveying authority in expression.

Benefits of Becoming a Judge After CLAT

Here are some key points to explain the pros of becoming a judge after CLAT:

• Prestigious Career: Becoming a judge after CLAT offers a prestigious and respected career in the legal field.
• Interpreting and Applying the Law: As a judge, you have the responsibility to interpret and apply the law, ensuring justice is served.
• Impactful Role: Judges have the power to make important decisions that can have a significant impact on individuals and society.
• Fairness and Equality: Judges play a crucial role in upholding the principles of fairness, equality, and the rule of law.
• Professional Growth: With experience, judges can progress to higher courts, such as the High Court or Supreme Court, and take on more complex cases
• Contribution to Society: Being a judge allows you to contribute to the legal system and make a positive impact on society.