Are you interested in becoming an esteemed judge, respected by your peers and seen as a leader in the Pakistani legal system? Becoming a judge requires great passion and dedication for upholding justice, withstanding immense pressure from difficult cases, as well as adhering to court rules and regulations.
It is no easy feat to become a judge in Pakistan it takes years of persistence and hard work if you are determined to reach this lofty goal. It also involves understanding entire systems around courts knowledge that needs regular updating. If you’re up for the challenge though, here’s how you can begin the journey of fulfilling your dream of joining the country’s judiciary.
How to Become a Judge in Pakistan
If you have set your sights on a career as a civil judge in Pakistan, this is the perfect platform for you. Get all the necessary information about the civil judge’s syllabus right here.
In Pakistan’s judicial system, the first step towards becoming a judge is being appointed as a civil judge-cum-magistrate. The provinces in Pakistan can be divided into civil districts as per the requirements of this Ordinance. Additionally, the government has the authority to define the boundaries of these districts and establish administrative centers for each district.
Under Article 6 of the Punjab Civil Court Ordinance, the government, in collaboration with the High Court, is responsible for deciding the number of Civil Judges to be appointed, creating regulations for the selection process, and specifying the required qualifications.
Furthermore, it is worth noting that civil judges and magistrates can eventually ascend to the prestigious position of a judge in Pakistan’s Supreme Court as their legal careers progress.
Becoming a judge is an honorable and prestigious career path in Pakistan. In this article, we will discuss the steps required to become a civil judge in Pakistan.
Who is Accountable For Administering Judiciary Examinations?
The government of Pakistan conducts regular examinations for civil judges. These comprehensive exams are organized by the esteemed Lahore High Court, ensuring a fair and transparent selection process. Interested candidates have the convenience of applying online through the official website, where they can find all the necessary information and guidelines.
Upon successful submission of the application and payment of the required fees, applicants will be provided with further instructions and necessary arrangements as determined by the Lahore High Court. This meticulous approach ensures that the recruitment process is thorough, efficient, and in accordance with legal standards.
What is the availability of seats?
The seats for civil judges in Pakistan are typically open in the month of November or towards the end of the year. However, the exact timing may vary depending on the needs and requirements of the judiciary system, as well as the number of vacancies to be filled. The process usually involves conducting written exams, followed by interviews and evaluations to select the most qualified candidates. It is a rigorous and competitive process, aimed at ensuring the appointment of competent and capable individuals to serve as civil judges in the country.
Education and Qualifications
To become a judge in Pakistan, you must first obtain a law degree from an accredited university. This can be either a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) or a Juris Doctor (JD) degree. After completing your law degree, you will need to pass the bar exam, also known as the Law Graduate Assessment Test (LAW-GAT), which is conducted by the Pakistan Bar Council. This test is mandatory for all law graduates who want to practice law in Pakistan.
In addition to these basic requirements, you must have a minimum of five years of experience as a practicing lawyer. This means that you must have worked in a legal firm or under the supervision of a senior lawyer for at least five years before you can be considered for a judgeship.
Eligibility Criteria
Before applying for the position of a civil judge in Pakistan, there are certain eligibility criteria that must be met by the candidate. These include:
- LLB degree from a recognized university
- Completion of two years of practice as a licensed advocate
- Obtaining a High Court license after two years of continuous practice
Ineligibility Criteria
There are certain factors that may render a candidate ineligible to become a civil judge in Pakistan. These include:
- Having been rejected three times by the Bar Council Exam/Interview
- Failing to meet the aforementioned eligibility criteria
Seats & Quota
The total number of seats for civil judges in Pakistan is not fixed and varies based on the administration’s discretion. However, in accordance with the Disabled Persons (Employment and Rehabilitation) Ordinance of 1981, as amended by Section 2 of the Punjab Disabled Persons (Employment and Rehabilitation) (Amendment) Act of 2015, a 3% quota is specifically allocated for disabled individuals to ensure their inclusion and participation.
Moreover, in order to promote diversity and equal representation, an additional 5% of the quota is reserved for minorities, as stated in the Punjab Government’s official notification. These provisions aim to foster an inclusive and equitable judicial system that values the rights and contributions of all citizens.
Age Limit
Candidates aspiring to become civil judges in Pakistan must be between the ages of 22 and 35 years. Any candidate falling outside this age range will not be eligible to apply for the position.
It is important to note that becoming a judge requires continuous learning and development even after being appointed to the position. Judges are expected to keep themselves updated with the evolving laws and regulations, making it a challenging yet rewarding career choice. If you are passionate about upholding justice and promoting the rule of law in Pakistan, then becoming a judge may be the perfect career path for you.
Other Opportunities in the Legal Field
Apart from becoming a civil judge, there are various other opportunities in the legal field in Pakistan. Short courses and diploma programs are available for individuals interested in expanding their knowledge and skills in specific areas of law. These programs can help individuals enhance their career prospects and make them more competitive in the job market.
Pre-Test MCQs
The first step towards becoming a civil judge in Pakistan is to clear the Pre-Test MCQs. This test consists of four subjects: Criminal Law, Civil Law, English Language, and General Knowledge. Each subject carries 25 marks.
Written Test
If you successfully clear the Pre-Test MCQs, you will be eligible to appear in the Written Test. The syllabus for the Judiciary Exam in Pakistan to become a civil judge includes seven subjects: Civil Law-I, Civil Law-II, Criminal Law, General Law, English Language, Urdu, and General Knowledge. Each subject carries 100 marks.
Must-Read Syllabus
It is important to thoroughly understand the syllabus for the ADPP (Assistant District Public Prosecutors) in Pakistan in order to prepare for the Judiciary Exam. The syllabus includes Acts and laws related to each subject, such as the Contract Act of 1872 and the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908.
- Civil Law-I (100 marks)
- Civil Law-II (100 marks)
- Criminal Law (100 marks)
- General Law (100 marks)
- English (100 marks)
- Urdu (100 marks)
- General Knowledge (100 marks)
- Viva Voce (300 marks)
Civil Law-I (Paper 1)
This paper includes topics such as the Contract Act of 1872, Guardian and Ward Act of 1890, Limitation Act of 1908, Muslim Family Laws (Pakistan), and more.
Civil Law-II (Paper 2)
In this paper, you will study the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908, Court Fee Act of 1870, Specific Relief Act of 1877, and other relevant laws.
Criminal Law (Paper 3)
This paper covers The Pakistan Penal Code 1860, The Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898, The Juvenile Justice System Act, 2000, Police Order and Rules (2002 and 1934), and more.
General Law (Paper 4)
Topics in this paper include the Qanoon e Shahadat Order 1984, Lahore High Court Rules & Orders, The Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan 1973, and more.
English (Paper 5)
This paper tests your skills in essay writing, comprehension, literature, and grammar.
Urdu (Paper 6)
Similar to the English paper, this tests your proficiency in essay writing, comprehension, grammar, and Urdu literature.
General Knowledge (Paper 7)
This paper covers everyday science, Islamic studies, Pakistan affairs, international affairs, and general knowledge.
Passing Marks
In order to pass the Judiciary Exam and become a civil judge, you must score at least 40% in each subject and a total of 50% in aggregate. Those who clear the Written Test will also have to appear in the compulsory Psychological and Aptitude Test.
Psychological and Aptitude Compulsory Test
This test is conducted to assess the psychological and aptitude skills of candidates. It is not a scoring test but is considered during the interview process.
Viva Voce
After successfully completing the written exam and demonstrating their aptitude through the psychological assessment, candidates will be required to participate in a viva voce or interview. This crucial stage serves as the final step in the selection process, providing an opportunity for candidates to showcase their knowledge, skills, and suitability for the position. The interview carries a significant weightage of 300 marks, making it a pivotal factor in determining the final outcome.
Salary of Civil Judge
Civil judges in Pakistan hold a prestigious position in the judicial system. With a salary equivalent to BS-17, they are well-compensated for their important role. In addition to their salary, they also receive various allowances and benefits, further enhancing their total income. This comprehensive package of financial rewards and perks makes their early-stage income nearly 5 Lac, providing them with stability and motivation in their careers.
Jurisdiction of Civil Judge
The local scope of authority for a Civil Judge is determined by the High Court. Unless specified otherwise, it is assumed that a Civil Judge’s jurisdiction is within the boundaries of their assigned district.
Additional Resources for Becoming a Judge in Pakistan
For those who are interested in pursuing a career as a judge in Pakistan, there are various resources available to help with the preparation process. Some of these include:
- Online study materials and practice tests for pre-test MCQs and written exams.
- Coaching centers that offer specialized courses for judiciary exams.
- Reference books on relevant subjects and Acts mentioned in the syllabus.
- Previous judges or legal professionals who can provide guidance and mentorship.
Overall, by dedicating time and effort towards studying, practicing, and gaining practical experience, one can successfully clear the exams and become a respected judge in Pakistan. So, it is imperative to be committed and focused towards this goal. With determination and hard work, anyone can achieve their dream of becoming a judge in Pakistan.
Conclusion
Becoming a judge in Pakistan is not an easy feat, and it requires dedication, hard work, and years of experience. However, if you are passionate about upholding justice and making a difference in society, this profession can be incredibly fulfilling. By following the steps outlined above, you can fulfill your dream of becoming a judge in Pakistan and serve the country with honor and integrity. So, if you are interested in pursuing a career in law and aspire to become a judge, start working towards fulfilling these requirements today!
Keep researching and learning about the legal system in Pakistan, gain experience as a lawyer, and continue to improve your knowledge and skills. With determination and perseverance, you can achieve your goal of becoming a judge in Pakistan. So, don’t give up and keep working towards your dream! The judiciary needs dedicated individuals like you to uphold justice and serve the people of Pakistan with fairness and impartiality. Good luck on your journey to becoming a judge in Pakistan!