Judges are responsible for interpreting laws, delivering fair judgments and ensuring justice in society. They have to be impartial and unbiased, as they need to make decisions based on facts and what is written in the law. Whereas lawyers represent their clients and can manipulate facts and evidence as per their narrative. That’s why becoming a judge is one of the most desired careers in the legal profession.
For those wondering how to become a judge, the journey requires dedication, legal expertise, and a commitment to fairness. This role comes with a lot of respect, authority and stability making it an attractive career option for law graduates.
In recent years there has been a growing interest among BA LLB students to join the judiciary. Many law graduates prefer this path because it offers direct entry into the judicial system through state level judicial service exams. Unlike litigation, which requires years of practice and client building, judicial services provide young graduates with a stable government job early in their career. Apart from job security and financial benefits, being a judge allows you to contribute to society by upholding justice and the rule of law.
If you’re curious about how to become a judge after BA LLB, this article will guide you through the eligibility criteria, preparation strategy and everything else you need to know to achieve this goal.
Steps on How to Become a Judge in India
If you’re currently pursuing a BA LLB and wondering how to become a judge right after you complete your BA LLB course, then let’s discuss the steps and eligibility criteria.
Eligibility Criteria
To become a judge after completing a BA LLB course, you must meet the following eligibility requirements.
Educational Qualification: BA LLB degree (or equivalent law degree) from a recognised university is mandatory.
Age: 21 to 35 years for fresh graduates appearing for the Judicial Services Examination (PCS-J). Age relaxations are available for reserved categories as per government rules.
Minimum Marks: Most states do not have a minimum percentage but some may require at least 55% in LLB.
Nationality: Indian.
For Higher Judiciary Services (HJS), 7+ years of legal practice as an advocate is required.
Judiciary Exams
- Judicial Services Examination (PCS-J/Civil Judge Exam)
- Conducted by state public service commissions.
- Structure of the exam: Prelims, Mains, and Interview.
- Higher Judiciary Services (for experienced lawyers)
- For those with 7+ years of legal practice.
Preparation Strategy to Become a Judge
- Key Subjects to Focus On
- Constitutional Law, Criminal Law (IPC, CrPC, Evidence Act), and Civil Law (CPC, Contract Act, Torts, Property Law).
- Jurisprudence, Local Laws (state-specific), and General Knowledge (current legal developments).
- Importance of Mock Tests & Previous Papers
Solving previous year’s question papers helps understand exam patterns, and enhances answer-writing skills.
Mock tests help improve time management, accuracy, and confidence.
- Coaching vs. Self-Study: Pros & Cons
Coaching offers structured guidance, expert explanations, and regular mock tests but it’s costly, whereas self-study is more flexible and affordable but requires strong discipline.
A hybrid approach is often the best.
Skills Required to Become a Judge
- Legal Acumen and Analytical Thinking
As a judge you need to interpret laws, analyse complex cases and apply legal principles effectively. To do that you need to have a sharp mind. Strong analytical thinking helps in evaluating evidence, identifying loopholes, and ensuring well-reasoned judgments.
You need to have great logical abilities and good knowledge of the law to deliver fair decisions.
- Ethical Integrity and Impartiality
Judges can’t base their decisions on favouritism or personal influence, as the entire process of serving justice rests on their shoulders. Being fair and impartial is what we expect from a judge. After all, a judge’s credibility rests on their honesty and impartiality.
- Strong Communication and Decision-Making Skills
Strong communication is a must in almost anything you do in life. But to become a judge you need to sharpen this skill even more; you need to listen carefully and ask questions wisely so that you communicate your judgements clearly.
Courtroom proceedings can be intense, so quick and confident decision-making is essential. Judges are required to explain their reasoning in a way that’s clear, logical, and easy to understand for everyone involved.
Challenges and Opportunities in Becoming a Judge
Common Difficulties Faced During Preparation
Judicial exams are highly competitive, requiring years of rigorous study, strong legal knowledge, and consistent practice. Balancing multiple subjects, staying updated with legal developments, and handling exam pressure can be overwhelming. But with smart preparation, discipline, and perseverance, cracking the exam is possible!
Career Options after BA LLB
The judiciary offers a structured and prestigious career path, starting as a Civil Judge (Junior Division) and progressing to Senior Judge, District Judge, and even High Court or Supreme Court positions. With experience and a strong track record, judges can also be appointed to tribunals, commissions, or advisory roles.
All of these are great career options after BA LLB
Perks and Responsibilities of the Role
You get many perks after you become a Judge, such as job security, a high salary and respect, along with government accommodation and allowances. However, it also carries a huge responsibility; providing fair judgments, maintaining judicial integrity, and upholding the Constitution. It’s a career of great power but also great accountability!
Conclusion
Hope this article has helped you with the process of becoming a judge. Becoming a judge after BA LLB goes beyond just knowing the eligibility criteria or passing an exam. To become a successful judge, you must develop strong legal knowledge, logical reasoning, impartiality, communication skills, and ethical integrity. The judiciary is not just a career; it’s a responsibility to uphold justice and fairness in society.
If you are into law and keeping justice at the top then you need to start working on these essential skills that we discussed today. By putting in consistent and dedicated efforts your journey of becoming a judge will be fulfilling and successful. Since you understand now how to become a judge after BA LLB, it’s time to take action and work towards your goal.
Read Also – What Are The Best Internships For BA LLB Students?
