Supreme Court restores 3-year practice rule for civil judge aspirants

New Delhi, May 20: The Supreme Court on Tuesday ruled that candidates must have at least three years of legal practice to be eligible for judicial service as civil judges (junior division), reinstating a requirement earlier introduced by some States reports Bar & Bench. “All State governments shall amend rules to ensure that any candidate appearing for the exam has a minimum practice of three years,” said a Bench of Chief Justice BR Gavai and Justices AG Masih and K Vinod Chandran, as reported by Bar & Bench.

The experience must be certified by an advocate with at least 10 years at the Bar, and service as a law clerk will count toward eligibility. A one-year training will also be mandatory before assuming judicial office. The Court clarified that the rule will apply only to future recruitment cycles and not to ongoing judicial selection processes. The case stemmed from challenges to a 2002 Madhya Pradesh rule requiring prior legal practice for civil judge aspirants.

While proponents argued the rule ensures courtroom readiness, critics said it unfairly blocks fresh law graduates. The Court ultimately sided with the former, citing the importance of practical experience in handling matters involving life, liberty, and property. The judgment, as reported by Bar and Bench I yet to be published in full, is expected to standardise entry-level judicial appointments across India.