If you're preparing for CLAT with the dream of becoming a judge, a big update has just been made that directly affects your career path. On May 20, 2025, the Supreme Court of India ruled that three years of legal practice is now mandatory before anyone can apply for entry-level judicial services like the Civil Judge (Junior Division) exam.
This means that you can’t become a judge immediately after completing your LL.B. degree anymore. You’ll first need to spend at least three years practicing law in a courtroom. Let’s understand why this decision was made, how it affects your future, and what you should do now as a CLAT aspirant.
Why Did the Supreme Court Make This Rule?
1. Real Experience Makes Better Judges
Judging isn’t just about knowing the law—it’s about knowing how to apply it in real situations. The Court found that fresh graduates who became judges often lacked confidence, couldn’t handle real courtroom challenges, and made more mistakes in judgment writing and case handling. Real legal practice helps build these crucial skills.
2. Confidence and Maturity Take Time
To sit on a judge’s bench, you need more than book knowledge. You need the ability to listen to arguments, understand people, evaluate evidence, and handle pressure. The Court believes that only time spent working as a lawyer can prepare someone for such responsibilities.
3. To Fix Past Problems in the System
Before this decision, many states allowed students to take judicial exams right after completing law school. Over time, High Courts across the country noticed that young, inexperienced judges were struggling. There were complaints about poor courtroom control, procedural confusion, and lack of understanding of practical law.
What Does This Mean for You as a CLAT Aspirant?
1. You Can Still Become a Judge
This rule doesn’t stop you from becoming a judge. It just adds an important step to your journey. Your roadmap now looks like this:
CLAT → Top Law University (like an NLU) → LL.B. Degree → 3 Years of Practice as an Advocate → Apply for Judicial Services Exam>
In fact, these three years will give you:
- Practical understanding of how courts function
- Better writing and reasoning skills
- A stronger profile when you apply for the judiciary
2. One Nation, One Standard
Earlier, some states asked for legal practice, others didn’t. This caused confusion and unfairness. Now, the Supreme Court has made it the same for all states—a level playing field.
What Will You Learn During Legal Practice?
Those three years of practice are not just a waiting period. You'll learn things you can’t learn in books, such as:
- How real cases are argued in court
- How to draft petitions, replies, and judgments
- How to deal with clients, judges, and court staff
- How to observe senior lawyers and learn from their strategy
By the time you apply for the judicial exam, you’ll be sharper, more prepared, and more confident.
What Was the Legal Reason Behind This Judgment?
The Court relied on Article 233(2) of the Indian Constitution, which says that district judges should be appointed from among advocates with experience. The decision also reflected years of feedback from High Courts and Law Commissions, all saying that practical training is essential for judges.
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