Bombay High Court District Judge Recruitment 2026 - Apply Online for Multiple Posts
State: Maharashtra |
Last Date: 2026-02-28
The High Court of Judicature at Bombay, one of the oldest and most prestigious High Courts in India, has announced a landmark recruitment opportunity for legal professionals aspiring to serve in the higher judiciary. This recruitment notification invites applications from eligible advocates and judicial officers for appointment to the post of District Judge (Entry Level) in the Maharashtra State Judicial Service. The District Judge position represents the pinnacle of the subordinate judiciary and the gateway to higher judicial service, offering an opportunity to dispense justice, uphold the rule of law, and contribute significantly to the judicial system of India.
The Bombay High Court, established on August 14, 1862, is one of the three Charter High Courts of India along with Calcutta and Madras High Courts. With its principal seat in Mumbai and benches at Nagpur, Aurangabad, Panaji (Goa), and other locations, the Bombay High Court has original and appellate jurisdiction over the states of Maharashtra and Goa, and the Union Territories of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu. The court has a rich legacy of legal luminaries, landmark judgments, and a tradition of judicial excellence spanning over 160 years.
The position of District Judge is a constitutional post under Article 233 and Article 236 of the Constitution of India. District Judges head the district judiciary, exercise both original and appellate jurisdiction, supervise subordinate courts (Civil Judges Junior Division, Civil Judges Senior Division, Judicial Magistrates First Class), and play a crucial role in the administration of justice at the grassroots level. District Judges preside over civil and criminal cases of significant magnitude, including but not limited to commercial disputes, matrimonial cases, land acquisition matters, criminal sessions trials involving serious offenses under the Indian Penal Code, and appeals from subordinate courts.
This recruitment is being conducted under the direct-recruitment quota as well as the promotion quota for existing judicial officers. The Bombay High Court follows a well-established procedure for appointment of District Judges, ensuring selection of the most competent, experienced, and upright legal professionals through a rigorous multi-stage examination and interview process. The selection methodology includes a preliminary written examination testing legal knowledge and aptitude, main written examination involving descriptive answers on various branches of law, viva-voce (interview) to assess personality, communication skills, and judicial temperament, and thorough verification of character, antecedents, and professional conduct.
Eligibility for this prestigious position requires candidates to be citizens of India, possessing a Bachelor's degree in Law (LL.B.) from a recognized university, and having practiced as an advocate for at least seven years (for direct recruitment candidates) in courts subordinate to the High Court, High Court itself, or the Supreme Court of India. Alternatively, judicial officers who have served for a specified period in subordinate judicial positions are also eligible. The age limit typically ranges from 35 to 50 years with relaxations for reserved categories as per Government rules and judicial service norms.
The pay scale for District Judge is as per Pay Matrix Level-13 of the 7th Central Pay Commission as adopted by the Maharashtra Government for the State Judicial Service. The entry-level basic pay starts from approximately Rs. 1,31,100 per month, along with substantial allowances including Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), Transport Allowance, and various other benefits. The total emoluments including all allowances can exceed Rs. 2,00,000 per month depending on the place of posting and applicable allowances. In addition to attractive remuneration, District Judges enjoy official residence or house rent reimbursement, vehicle facilities, medical benefits for self and dependent family members, leave travel concession, pension and retirement benefits, and high social status and respect in society.
Beyond financial benefits, the position offers immense professional satisfaction, intellectual stimulation, and the opportunity to contribute to societal welfare through impartial administration of justice. District Judges play a pivotal role in protecting fundamental rights, resolving disputes, punishing offenders, providing relief to victims, and upholding constitutional values. The position also opens pathways to elevation to the High Court and potentially the Supreme Court of India based on seniority, merit, and performance.
The application process for this recruitment is entirely online through the official Bombay High Court website. Candidates must carefully read the official notification, ensure they meet all eligibility criteria, prepare scanned copies of required documents including educational certificates, Bar Council registration certificate, proof of practice/service, caste certificate (if applicable), and other supporting documents, register on the online portal, fill the application form with complete and accurate information, upload documents as per specifications, pay the application fee online, and submit the application before the last date.
The preliminary examination typically covers subjects such as Civil Law (Contract Act, Specific Relief Act, Transfer of Property Act, Easements Act, Limitation Act, Registration Act), Criminal Law (Indian Penal Code, Criminal Procedure Code, Indian Evidence Act), Constitutional Law, Personal Laws (Hindu Law, Muslim Law), Commercial Law, and General Knowledge related to legal developments. The main examination involves descriptive answers, legal drafting (judgments, orders), and case analysis. The viva-voce assesses the candidate's understanding of law, reasoning ability, clarity of expression, integrity, and suitability for judicial office.
Candidates preparing for the District Judge examination should undertake comprehensive study of substantive and procedural laws, read landmark judgments of the Supreme Court and High Courts, understand recent legal developments and amendments, practice answer writing and legal drafting, and develop a judicial temperament characterized by patience, impartiality, compassion, and firmness. Mock interviews, discussion groups, and guidance from senior advocates and retired judges can be immensely helpful.
Upon selection and appointment, District Judges undergo mandatory induction training at the Maharashtra Judicial Academy or similar institutions where they are oriented on judicial ethics, case management techniques, use of technology in courts, judgment writing skills, and administrative responsibilities. Throughout their judicial career, District Judges participate in continuous judicial education programs, workshops, and conferences to stay updated with evolving legal landscape and enhance their professional competence.
The life of a District Judge is demanding yet rewarding. It involves long court hours, reading voluminous case files, hearing arguments, pronouncing judgments, conducting judicial inspections, and attending administrative meetings. District Judges must maintain absolute integrity, resist external pressures, uphold judicial independence, and ensure that justice is not only done but is seen to be done. The black coat and the gavel symbolize not mere authority but a solemn responsibility to serve the cause of justice with dedication, humility, and wisdom.
Job Highlights & Eligibility
💰 Application Fee
Application Fee for Bombay High Court District Judge Recruitment 2026:
The application fee structure for the District Judge (Entry Level) recruitment by the Bombay High Court is determined as per the rules framed by the High Court and Government of Maharashtra norms. The fee is meant to cover the administrative costs of conducting the recruitment process including examination, evaluation, and other logistics.
Application Fee Structure:
Note: The exact application fee will be specified in the official notification released by the Bombay High Court. Candidates are advised to refer to the notification for the precise amount. The above figures are indicative based on previous recruitment drives by High Courts.
Mode of Payment:
- Online Payment Only through the official Bombay High Court recruitment portal
- Payment methods accepted:
- Debit Card (Visa, MasterCard, RuPay, Maestro)
- Credit Card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express)
- Net Banking (All major banks - SBI, HDFC, ICICI, PNB, Axis, etc.)
- UPI (Unified Payments Interface - Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm, BHIM, etc.)
- After selecting the payment mode, candidates will be redirected to the secure payment gateway
- Follow the instructions on the payment page to complete the transaction
- Upon successful payment, a payment receipt/acknowledgement will be generated with transaction ID
- Download and save the payment receipt for future reference
Important Instructions Regarding Application Fee:
- Non-Refundable: Application fee once paid is NON-REFUNDABLE under any circumstances, including:
- Candidate found ineligible after scrutiny
- Candidate does not appear for the examination
- Examination is cancelled or postponed
- Candidate withdraws the application
- No Fee for Correction: If a correction window is provided later, no additional fee is charged for making corrections in the application
- Payment Confirmation: Ensure that payment is successfully completed and you receive a transaction ID. In case of payment failure, wait for 24 hours for automatic refund before re-attempting payment
- Multiple Payments: Do NOT make multiple payments. If amount is deducted but application status shows "payment pending," wait for bank reconciliation (usually 24-48 hours)
- Keep Receipt: Preserve the payment receipt. You may be required to produce it during document verification or in case of any discrepancy
- No Cash Payment: Physical cash payment at bank or High Court counters is NOT accepted. Only online payment is valid
- No Demand Draft: Demand Draft (DD) or cheque payments are NOT accepted
- Exemption Certificate: Candidates claiming fee exemption (SC/ST/PwD/Women, if applicable) must upload relevant certificates during application submission
Salary and Emoluments for District Judge:
Upon appointment, District Judges are entitled to salary and allowances as per the Maharashtra State Judicial Service Rules and the Pay Matrix adopted by the Government of Maharashtra based on the 7th Central Pay Commission recommendations.
Additional Benefits and Perquisites:
1. Official Residence:
- District Judges are entitled to government accommodation (official residence/bungalow) as per availability and entitlement
- If government accommodation is not available, HRA at applicable rates is paid
- Utilities such as electricity and water may be provided at subsidized rates or with some free units
2. Vehicle and Conveyance:
- Official vehicle (car) with driver is provided for official duties such as court work, inspections, and meetings
- Fuel and maintenance of official vehicle are borne by the government
- Personal use of vehicle may be allowed with proportionate cost recovery
3. Medical Benefits:
- Comprehensive medical reimbursement for self and dependent family members as per Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) or Maharashtra Government rules
- Treatment in empaneled government and private hospitals
- Reimbursement of medical expenses including hospitalization, surgeries, medicines, diagnostic tests, etc.
- Annual health check-ups
4. Leave Travel Concession (LTC):
- LTC for self and family members once in two years (or as per rules) to any place in India
- Air fare or train fare (as per entitlement) and daily allowance during LTC travel
5. Telephone and Internet:
- Telephone connection (landline and/or mobile) with reimbursement of bills up to a certain limit
- Internet connection for official use
6. Leave Entitlements:
- Earned Leave: 30 days per year (accumulates)
- Casual Leave: 8 days per year
- Medical Leave: As certified by medical authority
- Maternity/Paternity Leave: As per rules
7. Pension and Retirement Benefits:
- District Judges are entitled to pension benefits as per the National Pension System (NPS) or the Old Pension Scheme (depending on date of initial government service entry)
- Retirement age: 60 years for District Judges (as per current rules; subject to amendments)
- Gratuity upon retirement
- Commutation of pension (if eligible under Old Pension Scheme)
- General Provident Fund (GPF) accumulation or NPS corpus
- Post-retirement medical benefits in some cases
8. Judicial Allowances and Incentives:
- Special allowances for handling additional responsibilities such as:
- Special Judge for POCSO/SC-ST/CBI courts
- Sessions Judge (additional charge)
- Administrative roles (Principal District Judge, Registrar, etc. upon promotion)
- Professional development: Sponsored participation in judicial conferences, workshops, seminars, and training programs in India and abroad
9. Prestige and Status:
- District Judges enjoy high social status, respect, and precedence in official and public functions
- Security cover (if required based on threat perception or posting in sensitive areas)
- Judicial independence and immunity from civil and criminal liability for acts done in judicial capacity (within the scope of judicial function)
Career Progression:
- Entry Level: District Judge (Level-13)
- Promotion: Additional District Judge, Principal District Judge, Additional Sessions Judge (salary increments within Level-13 or promotion to higher pay levels)
- Elevation to High Court: Based on seniority, merit, and recommendation by High Court Collegium, District Judges may be elevated as Judges of the High Court (pay level: Justice of High Court, which is significantly higher)
- Elevation to Supreme Court: In exceptional cases, High Court Judges may be elevated to the Supreme Court of India
Note: All salary and allowance figures are indicative and subject to change based on Government of India and Maharashtra Government revisions, dearness allowance adjustments, and specific posting locations. Candidates should refer to official Government Orders and Maharashtra Judicial Service Rules for exact and updated figures.
📅 Important Dates
Important Timeline Notes:
- All dates mentioned above are indicative and subject to change at the discretion of the Bombay High Court
- Candidates MUST regularly check the official Bombay High Court website (www.bombayhighcourt.gov.in) for updates, amendments, and announcements
- Any changes in schedule, postponement of examination, or additional instructions will be notified ONLY on the official website
- No individual communication (email/SMS/letter) may be sent regarding routine updates; it is the candidate's responsibility to stay informed
- Candidates are advised to bookmark the official website and check it at least twice a week during the recruitment process
- In case of any technical issues with the website or application process, helpline contact details will be provided in the official notification
Official Contact Information:
- Bombay High Court Official Website: www.bombayhighcourt.gov.in
- Address: High Court of Judicature at Bombay, Fort, Mumbai - 400001, Maharashtra, India
- For Recruitment Queries: Registrar (Judicial), Bombay High Court (contact details as per notification)
- Email: As specified in the official notification (typically [email protected] or similar)
- Helpline Number: Will be provided in the official notification
- Helpline Timing: Monday to Friday, 10:00 AM to 05:00 PM (excluding public holidays)
Important Instructions:
- Do NOT wait for the last date to submit your application; server may be slow due to heavy traffic on the final day
- Apply at least 5-7 days before the last date to avoid last-minute technical issues
- Keep all documents scanned and ready before starting the online application
- Ensure stable internet connection while filling the application
- Complete the application in multiple sittings if needed; save progress after each section
- After final submission, download and print the application form and payment receipt; keep multiple copies
- Regularly check the email ID and mobile number provided in the application for any communication from the High Court
- Check your email Spam/Junk folder as well, as automated emails may sometimes land there
- Start preparing for the examinations immediately after applying; the syllabus is vast and requires dedicated study
⏳ Age Limit
Age Limit for Bombay High Court District Judge Recruitment 2026:
The age limit for appointment to the post of District Judge (Entry Level) is stipulated as per the Bombay High Court (District Judges) Recruitment Rules and applicable Government of Maharashtra and Government of India norms. Age is a critical eligibility criterion, and candidates must carefully calculate their age as on the specified date mentioned in the official notification.
Age Calculation Date:
- Age will be calculated as on the cut-off date specified in the official notification
- The cut-off date is typically:
- 01 January 2026 (start of the calendar year) OR
- Last date of submission of online application OR
- Any other specific date mentioned in the notification
- Candidates must check the official notification carefully for the exact date on which age will be reckoned
- For this analysis, we assume the cut-off date as 01 January 2026 (subject to confirmation from official notification)
Minimum and Maximum Age Limits:
Explanation of Age Limits:
1. Minimum Age - 35 Years:
- Candidates must have attained the age of 35 years as on the cut-off date
- This ensures that candidates have gained sufficient maturity, life experience, and professional experience (minimum 7 years of practice) before being considered for the high judicial post
- Candidates younger than 35 years are NOT eligible, even if they have completed 7 years of practice (which is theoretically possible if they enrolled early)
2. Maximum Age - 45 Years (General Category):
- General category candidates must not have crossed 45 years of age as on the cut-off date
- This upper limit ensures appointment of relatively younger judges who can serve for a longer tenure before retirement (retirement age for District Judges is 60 years)
- Candidates who turn 46 on or before the cut-off date are NOT eligible under general category
3. Age Relaxation for Reserved Categories:
The following age relaxations are applicable:
a) OBC / SBC (Special Backward Class):
- 3 years age relaxation
- Maximum age: 48 years
- Applicable to candidates belonging to Other Backward Classes as per Maharashtra State list or Central OBC list (for Central Government quota, if any)
- Candidates must submit valid OBC/SBC certificate and Non-Creamy Layer Certificate
b) SC / ST / VJ / DT / NT:
- 5 years age relaxation
- Maximum age: 50 years
- SC: Scheduled Caste as per Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order, 1950 for Maharashtra
- ST: Scheduled Tribe as per Constitution (Scheduled Tribes) Order, 1950 for Maharashtra
- VJ: Vimukta Jati (Denotified Tribes) as per Maharashtra State reservation policy
- DT: Denotified Tribes
- NT: Nomadic Tribes as per Maharashtra State classification
- Candidates must submit valid caste certificate issued by competent revenue authority (not below the rank of Tahsildar)
c) PwD (Persons with Disabilities):
- 10 years age relaxation for General category PwD candidates (maximum age: 55 years)
- Cumulative relaxation for PwD + reserved category:
- PwD + OBC/SBC: 10 + 3 = 13 years (maximum age: 58 years, subject to overall ceiling)
- PwD + SC/ST/VJ/DT/NT: 10 + 5 = 15 years (maximum age: 60 years, subject to overall ceiling)
- Candidates must have minimum 40% disability as certified by a competent medical board constituted by the Central or State Government
- Types of disabilities covered: Locomotor disability, Visual impairment, Hearing impairment, and other disabilities as per Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, provided the disability does not hinder the performance of judicial functions
d) Ex-Servicemen:
- Age relaxation as per Government of India rules for ex-servicemen applying for civil posts
- Typically, relaxation equals the period of military service plus 3 years, subject to overall ceiling
- Ex-servicemen must submit discharge certificate and details of service rendered
4. Domicile Requirement for Claiming Age Relaxation:
- Age relaxation under SC/ST/OBC/VJ/DT/NT/SBC categories is generally available only to candidates who are domiciled in Maharashtra
- Candidates from other states belonging to reserved categories may not be entitled to age relaxation as per Maharashtra State reservation policy (confirm from official notification)
- Domicile certificate issued by Tahsildar or competent revenue authority of Maharashtra is required
5. Age Proof Documents:
- Secondary School Certificate (SSC/10th standard) issued by a recognized Board showing Date of Birth is the only acceptable proof of age
- In exceptional cases where SSC is not available, Birth Certificate issued by Municipal Corporation or Gram Panchayat may be accepted (subject to High Court's discretion)
- School Leaving Certificate, Transfer Certificate, Affidavits, or other documents are NOT accepted as age proof
- Once the Date of Birth is recorded in the application, NO subsequent request for change will be entertained under any circumstances
- Candidates must carefully verify their Date of Birth as per SSC certificate before filling the application
6. Upper Age Limit Relaxation - Additional Provisions (If Applicable):
- Government Servants: Upper age limit may be relaxable by 5 years for candidates already in government service (including judicial officers seeking lateral entry from other states)
- Widows / Divorced Women / Women Judicially Separated: Upper age limit may be relaxed up to the age of 45 years (for general category women)
- Such relaxations, if applicable, will be clearly mentioned in the official notification
7. No Relaxation in Minimum Age:
- The minimum age of 35 years is absolute and applies to ALL candidates irrespective of category
- No candidate below 35 years will be considered, even if they belong to reserved categories or have exceptional qualifications
Important Instructions Regarding Age:
- Calculate your age carefully as on the cut-off date specified in the notification
- If you are even one day over the maximum age limit for your category, you are NOT eligible
- Age relaxation is not automatic; you must belong to the eligible category and submit valid certificates
- False claims regarding age, caste, or disability will lead to cancellation of candidature and possible legal action
- The decision of the Bombay High Court regarding eligibility, including age, is final and binding
- No appeals or representations regarding age eligibility will be entertained after submission of application
🎓 Qualification
Eligibility Criteria for Bombay High Court District Judge (Entry Level) Recruitment 2026:
The eligibility conditions for appointment as District Judge under the Bombay High Court are governed by the Bombay High Court (District Judges) Recruitment Rules, Article 233 of the Constitution of India, and various judgments of the Supreme Court on judicial appointments. Candidates must satisfy ALL of the following conditions:
1. Citizenship:
- The candidate must be a citizen of India
- Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) and foreign nationals are NOT eligible
- Candidates must produce proof of Indian citizenship at the time of document verification
2. Educational Qualification:
Essential:
- Bachelor's Degree in Law (LL.B.):
- 3-year LL.B. degree after graduation (10+2+3+3 system) OR
- 5-year integrated LL.B. degree after 12th standard (10+2+5 system) such as B.A. LL.B., B.Com. LL.B., B.B.A. LL.B., or B.Sc. LL.B.
- The law degree must be from a university recognized by the Bar Council of India (BCI)
- Distance education or correspondence law degrees are acceptable ONLY if the candidate was enrolled in such course before the Bar Council of India prohibited distance education in law (usually before 2007)
- Online law degrees from unrecognized institutions or foreign universities not recognized by BCI are NOT acceptable
- Minimum percentage or class in LL.B.: Typically no minimum percentage specified, but higher academic performance is desirable
- Candidates who have completed their LL.B. through open universities like Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Open University may be eligible subject to BCI recognition at the time of their enrollment
Desirable:
- Master's degree in Law (LL.M.) from a recognized university
- Post-graduate diploma in specialized areas such as Corporate Law, IPR, Taxation, Constitutional Law, etc.
- Higher academic qualifications enhance the candidate's profile during the interview stage
3. Bar Council Enrollment and Practice/Service:
Candidates must belong to ONE of the following categories:
Category A: Advocates (Direct Recruitment):
- Must be enrolled as an Advocate with any State Bar Council under the Advocates Act, 1961
- Enrollment certificate from Bar Council (e.g., Bar Council of Maharashtra & Goa, Bar Council of Delhi, Bar Council of any other state) is mandatory
- Minimum Practice Period: Must have practiced as an Advocate for NOT LESS THAN SEVEN (7) YEARS as on the date specified in the notification (usually the last date of application or a cut-off date)
- What constitutes "practice":
- Practice in any Civil Court, Criminal Court, Revenue Court, Tribunal, or authority subordinate to the High Court
- Practice in the High Court of any state
- Practice in the Supreme Court of India
- Practice as a Standing Counsel, Government Pleader, Public Prosecutor, or Assistant Public Prosecutor is included
- Practice before the Company Law Board, NCLT, NCLAT, CAT, and other quasi-judicial bodies constituted under statutes is generally included
- Calculation of 7 years:
- The 7 years are calculated from the date of enrollment with the Bar Council till the cut-off date mentioned in the notification
- Periods of suspension from practice, if any, may be excluded
- Advocates who have taken breaks from practice must carefully calculate whether they have completed 7 years of actual practice
- Practice must be continuous and regular; mere enrollment without active practice may not suffice
- Advocates must submit proof of practice such as:
- Bar Council enrollment certificate
- Certificate from the concerned Bar Association or Court certifying the period of practice
- List of cases handled with case numbers and details
- Copies of vakalatnamas filed in various cases
- Income Tax Returns declaring income from legal practice
- Any other documentary evidence of actual practice
Category B: Judicial Officers (Promotion/Limited Competitive Examination):
- Persons already in the service of the Government of Maharashtra in the State Judicial Service (subordinate judiciary) are eligible
- Minimum service as a Civil Judge (Senior Division) or Judicial Magistrate First Class for the period specified in the rules (typically 5 to 7 years of continuous service)
- Service certificate issued by the competent authority (Registrar General of the High Court or District & Sessions Judge) is required
- Judicial officers seeking promotion must have clean service records without any adverse entries or pending disciplinary proceedings
4. Age Limit (as on the cut-off date specified in notification, usually 01 January 2026 or last date of application):
Important Notes on Age:
- Upper age limit relaxations are as per Government of India and Maharashtra Government rules
- Cumulative age relaxation may apply (e.g., PwD + SC category may get 5+10 = 15 years relaxation, subject to maximum 50 years)
- Ex-servicemen and candidates who have served in defense forces may get additional age relaxation as per rules
- Domicile of Maharashtra may be required for availing reservation benefits under SC/ST/OBC/VJ/DT/NT/SBC categories
- Date of Birth as recorded in Secondary School Certificate (SSC/10th standard) will be accepted as proof of age; no subsequent change in DOB will be entertained
5. Physical Fitness:
- Candidates must be physically and mentally fit to discharge judicial duties
- Medical examination will be conducted for finally selected candidates
- Candidates with disabilities must ensure their disability does not hinder performance of judicial functions; reasonable accommodation may be provided
6. Character and Antecedents:
- Candidates must be of good moral character and integrity
- No criminal case (including under IPC, PMLA, Prevention of Corruption Act, etc.) should be pending or convicted against the candidate
- No disciplinary proceedings should be pending before the Bar Council
- Candidates should not have been dismissed or removed from any government service or judicial position in the past
- Thorough police verification and background checks will be conducted
- Any concealment of material facts or suppression of information will lead to disqualification
7. Domicile (for certain categories of reservation):
- Candidates seeking reservation under SC/ST/OBC/VJ/DT/NT/SBC categories must be domiciled in the State of Maharashtra
- Domicile certificate issued by competent revenue authority of Maharashtra Government is required
- General category candidates from any state in India are eligible (no domicile restriction)
8. Knowledge of Language:
- Candidates must have working knowledge of Marathi language as it is the official language used in lower courts and for communication with litigants in Maharashtra
- Proficiency in English is essential as it is the language of the High Court
- Knowledge of Hindi is desirable
- Candidates may be tested for language proficiency during the interview or through a language proficiency test
9. Computer Knowledge:
- Basic computer literacy is expected as modern courts use Case Management Systems, e-filing, video conferencing, and digital record keeping
- Familiarity with MS Office, internet usage, and court software systems is desirable
Documents Required for Eligibility Verification:
Candidates must upload scanned copies during online application and produce originals during document verification:
- Secondary School Certificate (SSC/10th) for age proof
- Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC/12th) and mark sheet
- Graduation degree and mark sheets (if LL.B. is 3-year course after graduation)
- LL.B. degree certificate and all semester/year-wise mark sheets
- Bar Council Enrollment Certificate with enrollment number and date
- Certificate of Practice from Bar Association or Court (for advocates)
- List of cases handled with case numbers (for advocates)
- Service certificate from Registrar General (for judicial officers)
- Caste Certificate issued by competent authority (for SC/ST/OBC/VJ/DT/NT/SBC candidates)
- Non-Creamy Layer Certificate for OBC/SBC candidates valid for the current year
- Disability Certificate from competent medical board (for PwD candidates)
- Domicile Certificate of Maharashtra (if claiming reservation)
- Character Certificate from two Advocates of High Court or District Judge (format prescribed by High Court)
- Affidavit regarding no criminal cases pending or convicted
- Recent passport-size photographs
- Any other documents specified in the detailed notification
Disqualifications:
A candidate shall be disqualified for appointment if:
- Does not meet the minimum qualification or practice/service period
- Has been convicted of any criminal offense involving moral turpitude
- Has been removed or dismissed from government or judicial service
- Has been declared insolvent
- Is of unsound mind
- Has more than two living children (as per two-child norm, subject to exemptions)
- Conceals material information or furnishes false information in the application
- Engages in canvassing or uses unfair means during the selection process
🎯 Selection Process
The selection process for the post of District Judge (Entry Level) by the Bombay High Court is highly competitive, rigorous, and designed to identify candidates with exceptional legal knowledge, analytical ability, judgment writing skills, and judicial temperament. The process is conducted with utmost transparency, fairness, and adherence to constitutional and statutory provisions.
Overview of Selection Process:
The selection process typically consists of the following stages:
Stage 1: Online Application and Eligibility Screening
- Candidates submit online applications through the official Bombay High Court website
- Applications are scrutinized for eligibility criteria:
- Educational qualifications (LL.B. degree)
- Bar Council enrollment and 7 years of practice (for advocates) or required service period (for judicial officers)
- Age limit compliance
- Completeness of application and upload of required documents
- Payment of application fee
- Ineligible or incomplete applications are rejected at this stage
- Eligible candidates are informed via email and/or website notification
- Only eligible candidates are allowed to download admit cards for the next stage
Stage 2: Preliminary Examination (If Conducted)
Note: Depending on the number of applications received and the High Court's decision, a preliminary examination may or may not be conducted. If the number of eligible candidates is manageable, the High Court may directly conduct the Main Examination. However, if the number is very large, a preliminary examination serves as a screening test.
Preliminary Examination Details (If Applicable):
- Nature: Objective type (Multiple Choice Questions - MCQs) or short answer type questions
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Total Marks: 200 marks (indicative; exact marks as per notification)
- Number of Questions: 100 to 200 questions
- Negative Marking: May be applicable (typically 0.25 or 0.33 marks deducted for each wrong answer)
- Qualifying Nature: The preliminary examination is usually of qualifying nature; marks obtained may not be counted for final merit (confirm from official notification)
- Shortlisting: Candidates scoring above the cut-off marks (determined by the High Court based on performance and number of vacancies) will be shortlisted for the Main Examination
- Syllabus for Preliminary Examination: General legal knowledge covering all major branches of law (Civil, Criminal, Constitutional, etc.) - detailed below
Stage 3: Main Examination (Written Examination)
The Main Examination is the core component of the selection process, testing the candidate's in-depth legal knowledge, analytical ability, and answer writing skills.
Main Examination Structure:
The Main Examination typically consists of multiple papers (usually 4 to 6 papers) covering different branches of law. Each paper is of descriptive nature requiring elaborate answers, legal analysis, case discussions, and drafting.
Indicative Paper Pattern (Subject to Official Notification):
Note: The exact subjects, number of papers, marks distribution, and duration will be specified in the official notification and scheme of examination released by the Bombay High Court.
Nature of Questions in Main Examination:
- Descriptive Answers: Long answers (500-1000 words) on legal principles, doctrines, and concepts
- Case Analysis: Analysis of landmark judgments, ratio decidendi, obiter dicta, and their applicability
- Comparative Study: Comparison of provisions, doctrines, or judicial approaches
- Legal Drafting: Drafting of plaint, written statement, petition, judgment, order, etc. based on given facts
- Problem-Solving: Legal problems (fact-based scenarios) requiring application of legal principles and suggesting remedies
- Recent Developments: Questions on recent amendments, new legislations, and contemporary legal issues
- Critical Analysis: Critical appreciation of judicial decisions, legislative provisions, or legal doctrines
Detailed Syllabus for Main Examination:
1. Civil Law - Part I:
- Indian Contract Act, 1872: Formation of contract, free consent, void agreements, performance, discharge, breach, remedies, quasi-contracts, indemnity and guarantee, bailment, pledge, agency
- Specific Relief Act, 1963: Specific performance of contracts, rectification and rescission of instruments, declaratory decrees, preventive relief (injunctions)
- Transfer of Property Act, 1882: General principles of transfer, conditions and contingencies, doctrine of election, transfer by non-owners (doctrine of lis pendens, doctrine of part performance), sale of immovable property, mortgage, lease, exchange, gift, actionable claims
- Indian Easements Act, 1882: Easements, licenses, acquisition and extinction of easements
2. Civil Law - Part II:
- Code of Civil Procedure, 1908: Jurisdiction of courts, res judicata, suits in particular cases, institution and trial of suits, written statement, set-off and counter-claim, discovery and inspection, summons and attendance of witnesses, examination of witnesses, judgment and decree, appeals, review, revision, reference, execution of decrees and orders, interpleader suit, suits by or against government, public nuisance and other wrongful acts, Order XXXIX (temporary injunctions)
- Limitation Act, 1963: Computation of period of limitation, extension of prescribed period, exclusion of time, effect of fraud or mistake, acknowledgment and part payment, disability, suits for which no period of limitation is prescribed
- Registration Act, 1908: Documents of whichregistration is compulsory, documents of which registration is optional, time and place of presentation, procedure for registration, effects of registration and non-registration
- Indian Evidence Act, 1872: Relevancy of facts, admission and confession, dying declaration, statements by persons who cannot be called as witnesses, judgments of courts, opinions of experts, character, burden of proof, estoppel, presumptions, witnesses, examination and cross-examination, documentary evidence, public documents, exclusion of oral evidence
3. Criminal Law:
- Indian Penal Code, 1860: General exceptions, joint and constructive liability, abetment, criminal conspiracy, offenses against the state, public tranquility, human body (including murder, culpable homicide, hurt, wrongful restraint, kidnapping), property (including theft, extortion, robbery, dacoity, cheating, criminal breach of trust), documents and property marks, offenses relating to marriage, defamation, criminal intimidation and insult
- Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973: Constitution of criminal courts, powers of courts, arrest, processes to compel appearance, bail, security for keeping peace and good behavior, investigation, inquiry and trial, examination of accused, trial before Court of Session and Magistrates, summary trials, judgment, appeals, revision, transfer, evidence in inquiries and trials, special provisions regarding bail and bonds
- Indian Evidence Act, 1872: Provisions related to criminal cases, confessions, accomplice evidence, previous convictions, character of accused, expert opinion in criminal matters
- Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023: If implemented (check notification for applicability)
- Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023: If implemented
- Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023: If implemented
4. Constitutional Law and Administrative Law:
- Constitution of India: Preamble, fundamental rights, directive principles, fundamental duties, citizenship, union and state executive, parliament and state legislatures, judiciary, centre-state relations, election commission, comptroller and auditor general, emergency provisions, amendments
- Judicial Review: Scope and grounds of judicial review, doctrine of proportionality, legitimate expectation
- Public Interest Litigation: Evolution, locus standi, scope, limitations, judicial activism vs. judicial overreach
- Administrative Law: Principles of natural justice (audi alteram partem, nemo judex in causa sua), delegated legislation, administrative tribunals, doctrine of legitimate expectation, reasonableness, proportionality
- Writs: Habeas corpus, mandamus, prohibition, certiorari, quo warranto - scope and applicability
5. Personal Laws and Family Law:
- Hindu Law: Sources, schools, joint Hindu family, coparcenary, partition, adoption, marriage, divorce, maintenance, succession, will
- Muslim Law: Sources, schools, marriage, dower, divorce, maintenance, guardianship, gifts, waqf, succession
- Special Marriage Act, 1954
- Hindu Marriage Act, 1955
- Hindu Succession Act, 1956
- Hindu Adoption and Maintenance Act, 1956
- Guardians and Wards Act, 1890
- Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005
- Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO), 2012
6. Commercial and Special Laws:
- Companies Act, 2013: Incorporation, management, meetings, oppression and mismanagement, winding up
- Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996
- Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881
- Sale of Goods Act, 1930
- Partnership Act, 1932
- Consumer Protection Act, 2019
- Intellectual Property Rights: Copyright Act, Patent Act, Trade Marks Act (basic principles)
- Right to Information Act, 2005
- Land Acquisition Act, 2013
- Environmental Laws: Environment Protection Act, Water and Air Pollution Acts (basic principles)
- Information Technology Act, 2000
Stage 4: Viva-Voce (Personal Interview)
Candidates who qualify the Main Written Examination (based on cut-off marks determined by the High Court) are called for Viva-Voce (personal interview).
Viva-Voce Details:
- Marks: 100 marks (typically, but may vary as per notification)
- Duration: 20-40 minutes per candidate
- Interview Panel: Usually comprises:
- One or more Judges of the Bombay High Court (Chairperson)
- Eminent legal experts
- Senior advocates
- Retired judges (if co-opted)
- Location: Bombay High Court premises, Mumbai (principal seat)
Assessment Parameters in Viva-Voce:
- Legal Knowledge: Understanding of law, recent legal developments, landmark judgments
- Analytical Ability: Ability to analyze legal problems, distinguish cases, apply principles to hypothetical situations
- Judicial Temperament: Patience, composure, fairness, impartiality, compassion balanced with firmness
- Communication Skills: Clarity of expression, articulation, ability to explain complex legal concepts simply
- Personality: Confidence (not arrogance), humility, integrity, ethical grounding
- General Awareness: Current affairs, social issues, constitutional developments
- Reasoning and Judgment: Logical thinking, decision-making ability, wisdom
- Motivation and Commitment: Why do you want to be a judge? Understanding of judicial responsibility
- Language Proficiency: Fluency in English, working knowledge of Marathi and Hindi
Typical Questions in Viva-Voce:
- Introduce yourself and your practice/service background
- Why do you want to become a District Judge?
- What is judicial independence? How will you maintain it?
- Discuss a recent Supreme Court or Bombay High Court judgment that impressed you
- How will you handle media trial and public pressure in sensitive cases?
- Difference between judicial activism and judicial overreach
- Role of judiciary in protecting fundamental rights
- How will you ensure speedy justice without compromising quality?
- Discuss alternative dispute resolution mechanisms
- Views on death penalty, live-in relationships, LGBTQ rights, or other contemporary issues
- Situational questions: How will you handle a case where a powerful person tries to influence you?
- Questions on ethics, integrity, and judicial conduct
Stage 5: Document Verification
- Candidates appearing for Viva-Voce (or at a separate scheduled time) must undergo document verification
- ALL original certificates must be produced: Educational certificates, Bar Council enrollment certificate, Practice/Service certificates, Caste certificate (if applicable), Domicile certificate, Character certificates, Identity proofs, Recent photographs
- Certificates will be thoroughly verified; any discrepancy will lead to disqualification
- Self-attested photocopies will be retained by the High Court
Stage 6: Medical Examination
- Candidates finally selected (based on combined marks of written examination and interview) will undergo medical examination
- Medical examination ensures physical and mental fitness for judicial duties
- Conducted by a medical board constituted by the High Court
- Candidates found medically unfit may be rejected or given time for treatment and re-examination
Stage 7: Character and Antecedent Verification
- Police verification of character and antecedents
- Verification of service records (for judicial officers)
- Inquiry with Bar Council regarding any disciplinary proceedings
- Verification of claims made in the application
Stage 8: Final Merit List and Appointment
- Final merit list is prepared based on total marks obtained in Written Examination + Viva-Voce (e.g., 600 + 100 = 700 total marks)
- Reservation policy for SC/ST/OBC/VJ/DT/NT/SBC/PwD categories is applied
- Selected candidates are recommended by the High Court for appointment
- Appointment orders are issued by the Governor of Maharashtra on the recommendation of the High Court
- Selected candidates are required to join within the stipulated time
Important Selection Notes:
- The decision of the Bombay High Court at every stage of the selection process is final and binding
- No correspondence regarding selection/rejection will be entertained
- Canvassing in any form will lead to disqualification
- The High Court reserves the right to cancel, modify, or postpone the recruitment at any stage
- Selected candidates must maintain absolute integrity throughout their judicial career
📝 How to Apply
How to Apply for Bombay High Court District Judge Recruitment 2026:
IMPORTANT: Application is ONLINE ONLY through the Official Bombay High Court Website
The application process is entirely online. Candidates must follow the step-by-step procedure given below:
STEP 1: Visit Official Bombay High Court Website
- Open web browser and go to: www.bombayhighcourt.gov.in
- On the homepage, look for "Recruitment" or "Careers" or "Vacancies" section (usually in the main menu)
- Click on "District Judge Recruitment 2026" or the relevant notification link
- Download the complete official notification PDF and read it carefully
- Also download the information brochure, scheme of examination, and syllabus (if provided separately)
STEP 2: Check Eligibility
- Verify that you meet ALL eligibility criteria: LL.B. degree, 7 years of practice (for advocates) or required service (for judicial officers), Age limit (35-45 years with relaxations), Bar Council enrollment, Good character and antecedents
- If you meet all criteria, proceed to application
STEP 3: Arrange Required Documents (Scanned Copies)
Prepare scanned copies of the following documents in JPG/JPEG/PDF format as per specifications mentioned in the notification:
- Passport-size Color Photograph: Recent (taken within last 3 months), white/light background, face clearly visible, File size: 20-50 KB, Format: JPG/JPEG
- Signature Specimen: Sign on white paper with black pen, scan and save, File size: 10-20 KB, Format: JPG/JPEG
- 10th Standard Certificate (Age Proof): File size: Max 300 KB, Format: PDF
- LL.B. Degree Certificate: File size: Max 300 KB, Format: PDF
- Bar Council Enrollment Certificate: File size: Max 300 KB, Format: PDF
- Practice Certificate from Bar Association or Court: File size: Max 300 KB, Format: PDF
- OR Service Certificate (for judicial officers): File size: Max 300 KB, Format: PDF
- Caste Certificate (if applicable): File size: Max 300 KB, Format: PDF
- Domicile Certificate (if applicable): File size: Max 300 KB, Format: PDF
- PwD Certificate (if applicable): File size: Max 300 KB, Format: PDF
STEP 4: Register on the Online Portal
- On the recruitment page, click "Apply Online" or "New Registration" button
- A registration form will appear
- Fill in: Full Name (as per 10th certificate), Date of Birth (DD/MM/YYYY), Email ID (active and regularly checked), Mobile Number (10 digits, active), Create Username and Password, Security Question and Answer, Enter Captcha
- Click "Register" or "Submit"
- You may receive an OTP on email/mobile for verification
- After successful registration, note down your Registration Number/User ID and Password
STEP 5: Login and Fill Application Form
- Login with your Registration Number/User ID and Password
- The online application form will have multiple sections
- Fill each section carefully:
- Personal Details: Name, Fathers-Mothers name, Gender, Date of Birth, Nationality, Category (General/SC/ST/OBC/etc.), Marital status, Address, Email, Mobile
- Educational Qualifications: 10th, 12th, Graduation, LL.B., LL.M. (if any) - Board/University, Year of passing, Percentage/Division
- Bar Council Enrollment: Bar Council name, Enrollment number, Date of enrollment
- Practice/Service Details: For Advocates: Courts where practiced, Types of cases handled, Number of years of practice, Income from practice (as per IT returns); For Judicial Officers: Current designation, Date of appointment, Service duration, Current posting
- List of Important Cases Handled: (For advocates - provide case numbers, court names, nature of cases)
- Language Proficiency: Marathi, English, Hindi - Read/Write/Speak ability
- Declaration: Undertakings regarding no criminal cases, no disciplinary proceedings, all information is true, etc.
- Save each section after filling
STEP 6: Upload Scanned Documents
- Navigate to "Upload Documents" section
- Upload each document as per specifications (file size, format)
- Preview uploaded documents to ensure clarity
- If wrong file uploaded, delete and re-upload
STEP 7: Preview and Submit Application
- Click "Preview" to review the entire application
- Check all details carefully
- If corrections needed, click "Edit" and make changes
- Once satisfied, click "Final Submit"
- A confirmation popup will appear; click "Confirm"
- Application will be submitted and an Application Number will be generated
- Note down the Application Number
STEP 8: Pay Application Fee
- After submission, you will be redirected to payment page
- Select payment mode: Debit Card/Credit Card/Net Banking/UPI
- Enter payment details and complete transaction
- After successful payment, download payment receipt
STEP 9: Download and Print Application Form
- After fee payment, download the complete application form PDF
- Take 2-3 printouts for your records
- This printout will be required during document verification
STEP 10: Regular Follow-up
- Regularly check official website for updates
- Download admit card when available
- Prepare for examinations
For detailed instructions, candidates must refer to the official notification.
Bombay High Court District Judge Recruitment 2026 - Apply Online for Multiple Posts Recruitment 2026
State: Maharashtra |
Last Date: 2026-02-28
Bombay High Court District Judge Recruitment 2026 - Apply Online for Multiple Posts ? Get all information about this job on this page or you can download the pdf also for proper information & for more latest jobs details click sarkariresult.jobs This website easily provide information about official notification, eligibility, selection process, how to apply, and other important information for aspirants seeking Bombay High Court District Judge Recruitment 2026 - Apply Online for Multiple Posts in Maharashtra.
Candidates interested in Bombay High Court District Judge Recruitment 2026 - Apply Online for Multiple Posts should check eligibility, important dates, and the official PDF carefully. Submit your application before 2026-02-28 to avoid last minute rush.
How to Apply for Bombay High Court District Judge Recruitment 2026 - Apply Online for Multiple Posts?
- Visit the official site and download the notification.
- Read eligibility and instructions carefully.
- Prepare all necessary documents.
- Fill out the application form and pay the fee if required.
- Submit before 2026-02-28.
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