Mandatory Legal Practice For Judicial Service: A Progressive Step Towards Enhancing Judicial Competence
- IJLLR Journal
- Jun 1
- 1 min read
Ananya Tyagi, Advocate
ABSTRACT
The Supreme Court of India has recently mandated a minimum of three years’ legal practice as a prerequisite for candidates aspiring to enter the judicial service at the civil judge (junior division) level. This ruling underscores the indispensability of practical courtroom experience to ensure judicial competence and efficiency. The judgment represents a critical departure from the erstwhile practice of permitting fresh law graduates to directly enter the judiciary, highlighting the shortcomings of such appointments. This article analyses the Court’s rationale, explores the implications of the ruling on judicial aspirants and the legal ecosystem, and advocates the view that practical knowledge is paramount in judicial function beyond mere theoretical learning.