Exam guide
Judicial Services Exam (Civil Judge)
Recruitment of Civil Judges (Junior Division), in every State
This guide is a draft under review. Always check dates, eligibility, marks and pattern against the official notification.
About the exam
Civil Judges (Junior Division) are recruited by the State's High Court or its Public Service Commission. Most States hold three stages. The subjects, marks and language are set by each State's rules and each year's notification.
How the exam works
- Preliminary exam
Objective questions; in most States only a screening test.
- Main exam
Written papers: civil and criminal law, language, and in many States judgment writing.
- Interview
For those who clear the main exam.
Main subjects
- Constitution of India
- BNS, BNSS and BSA
- Code of Civil Procedure
- Transfer of Property, Contract, Specific Relief and Limitation
- Local laws of the State
- Language and judgment writing
Eligibility
In its ruling of 21 August 2026 (Bhumika Trust v. Union of India, 2026 INSC 904), the Supreme Court changed the three-year practice rule of May 2025. For recruitments notified up to 31 March 2027, fresh law graduates may apply. From 1 April 2027, at least one year of practice is needed. Selected candidates first do one year of training at the State Judicial Academy and one year of law clerkship. For age and other conditions, see your State's notification.