The Supreme Court on Tuesday ruled that candidates aspiring to become Civil Judge (Junior Division) must have a minimum of three years of experience as practising lawyers. The verdict was delivered by a bench comprising Chief Justice of India BR Gavai, along with Justices AG Masih and K Vinod Chandran.

The apex court observed that the direct appointment of fresh law graduates into the judiciary has created several challenges on the ground, particularly due to their lack of practical exposure. To address these concerns, the court emphasised that a foundational period of legal practice is essential before one steps into the judicial role.

“We hold that the three-year minimum practice requirement to appear for civil judges (junior division) exam is restored …. All State governments shall amend rules to ensure that for any candidate appearing for civil judges (junior division) exam shall have a minimum practice of three years. This shall be certified and endorsed by a lawyer having standing of 10 years at the Bar. Experience as a law clerk to judges shall also be counted in this regard. They (judicial service entrants) must undergo a year of training before presiding in a court,” the Court ordered.