Archive · 15 Jan 2026
SC seeks input on 3-year practice norm for judicial exams
The Supreme Court of India is asking for opinions from all High Courts, National Law Universities, and other law schools about a rule that says law graduates need to practice law for at least three years before they can take the exam to become judges.
This rule was made last year to stop fresh law graduates from taking the exam.
Now, the court wants to know if this rule is fair, especially for people with disabilities who might have a hard time getting hired as lawyers.
The court also wants to make sure the rules are the same for everyone and is planning to get feedback from students and institutions to decide if any changes should be made.
The Supreme Court sought opinions on the 3-year law practice requirement for judicial services exams.
The court is considering feedback from High Courts, National Law Universities, and law schools.
Bhumika Trust petitioned for exempting Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) from the 3-year practice requirement.
The court emphasized uniform rules for all law graduates and requested suggestions within four weeks.
The initial decision to bar fresh law graduates was based on feedback from High Courts citing behavioral and temperamental issues.
- Who
- Supreme Court of India, High Courts, National Law Universities, Bhumika Trust
- What
- Seeking input on 3-year law practice norm for judicial services exam
- When
- May 20, 2023 (initial decision), Thursday (current hearing)
- Where
- Supreme Court of India
- Why
- To assess the impact and gather broader perspectives on the 3-year practice requirement
- Date of Decision
- May 20, 2023
- Bench Composition
- Chief Justice Surya Kant, Justice Joymalya Bagchi, Justice Vijay Bishnoi
- Petitioner
- Bhumika Trust
- Current Requirement
- 3 years of law practice
- Time for Feedback
- 4 weeks