Supreme Court Reinforces Legal Experience for Judicial Aspirants

In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court has mandated that candidates must have at least three years of legal practice to be eligible for entry-level judicial positions, such as Civil Judge (Junior Division). This move reinstates a critical eligibility norm to improve the quality of judicial appointments.

Background and Reasoning
This judgment reverses the 2002 ruling that permitted fresh law graduates to join the judiciary without practical courtroom experience. The Court highlighted that theoretical knowledge alone is insufficient. Practical exposure is crucial for judges to effectively deal with complex legal proceedings and deliver sound judgments.

Eligibility and Certification
The required three years of legal practice will be counted from the date of a candidate’s provisional enrollment as an advocate, not from the date of clearing the All India Bar Examination (AIBE). To validate this experience, candidates must present a certificate from an advocate with a minimum of 10 years of Bar experience, which must be endorsed by a judicial officer. The Court also allowed experience as a law clerk to judges to count as valid practice.

Scope and Applicability
This directive applies prospectively and will not impact recruitment processes already underway. The Supreme Court has asked all State Governments and High Courts to amend their judicial service rules accordingly for future appointments.

The Supreme Court’s ruling underscores the importance of courtroom experience in shaping competent judicial officers. Although it may delay the entry of fresh law graduates into judicial service, the requirement aims to enhance judicial quality, efficiency, and public trust in the legal system.