How to Crack the Judiciary Mains & Interview Round?
- Kanishka Makhijani
- Jan 29
- 3 min read
The Judiciary Services Examination is one of the most prestigious and challenging exams for law graduates aspiring to become judges. The exam consists of three stages: Preliminary Exam, Mains Exam, and the Interview Round. While clearing the prelims is a significant achievement, success in the Judiciary Mains & Interview Round is what ultimately determines your selection.
In this detailed guide, we will provide strategies, study plans, and expert tips to help you crack the Judiciary Mains and Interview Round with confidence.

Understanding the Judiciary Mains Examination
The Mains Exam is the second and most crucial stage of the judicial services examination. Unlike the preliminary exam, which is objective in nature, the mains exam is descriptive and tests your analytical ability, legal knowledge, and writing skills.
Structure of the Judiciary Mains Exam
While the exact pattern may vary from state to state, the Judiciary Mains typically consists of the following papers:
Civil Law Papers – Covers laws such as CPC, Contract Law, Property Law, and Family Law.
Criminal Law Papers – Includes IPC, CrPC, Indian Evidence Act, and Special Laws.
Language Papers – Tests proficiency in English, Hindi, or the regional language of the state.
Essay & Judgment Writing – Evaluates your ability to draft judgments and legal essays.
How to Prepare for Judiciary Mains Examination
1. Develop a Subject-Wise Study Plan
Each subject in the Judiciary Mains requires a different approach. Here’s how you can prepare effectively:
Subject | Preparation Strategy |
Civil Law | Focus on landmark judgments and key provisions. Use short notes for quick revision. |
Criminal Law | Practice answer writing with case laws and illustrations. Learn procedural aspects thoroughly. |
Evidence Act | Understand important sections and practice applying them to case scenarios. |
Language Paper | Improve essay writing and practice translation exercises. |
Judgment Writing | Analyze real judgments and practice writing clear, logical, and well-reasoned judgments. |
2. Improve Answer Writing Skills
One of the biggest challenges in Judiciary Mains is writing well-structured answers within a limited time.
Follow a Structured Format: Your answers should include:
Introduction – Define the legal issue or provision.
Legal Provisions & Case Laws – Explain relevant laws with case references.
Application & Conclusion – Apply the law to the given problem and conclude logically.
Practice Daily Answer Writing: Set a timer and attempt previous years’ mains questions.
Use Simple and Precise Language: Avoid lengthy, complicated sentences.
3. Stay Updated with Legal Developments
Read recent Supreme Court and High Court judgments.
Follow legal news websites like Live Law and SCC Online.
Maintain a separate notebook for important case laws and their legal principles.
4. Revise Regularly
Revise key sections, case laws, and legal principles multiple times.
Create flashcards for quick review of important topics.
How to Prepare for the Judiciary Interview Round
The Interview Round (Viva-Voce) is the final stage of the judiciary exam. It assesses not just your legal knowledge but also your personality, confidence, and communication skills.
What to Expect in the Judiciary Interview?
The interview panel may ask:
Legal Questions – Application-based questions on law, procedural aspects, and case laws.
Current Affairs – Legal and general awareness topics.
Situational Judgment – Ethical dilemmas and decision-making questions.
Personal Questions – About your background, motivation, and career goals.
How to Prepare for the Interview?
1. Enhance Your Legal Knowledge
Revise all core subjects (IPC, CrPC, CPC, Evidence, Constitution, etc.).
Stay updated with recent legal developments and judgments.
2. Work on Your Communication Skills
Speak clearly and confidently while answering questions.
Practice mock interviews with mentors or peers.
Avoid memorized answers – Focus on structured and logical responses.
3. Improve Personality and Presentation
Dress professionally in formal attire.
Maintain positive body language – Sit upright, make eye contact, and listen attentively.
Stay calm under pressure – Take a moment before answering complex questions.
Importance of Judiciary Coaching in India
Many aspirants find that Judiciary Coaching in India helps them stay disciplined and focused during preparation.
How Coaching Institutes Can Help?
Structured Study Plans – Covering the entire syllabus efficiently.
Mock Tests & Answer Writing Practice – Regular tests improve writing speed and quality.
Personalized Guidance – Expert mentors provide feedback on performance.
Interview Preparation – Mock interviews and personality development sessions.
If you prefer self-study, ensure you follow a strict study schedule and take mock tests regularly.
Final Tips for Success
Start Early & Stay Consistent – Judiciary preparation requires long-term commitment.
Master Answer Writing – This is crucial for Mains success.
Stay Updated with Current Affairs – Read newspapers daily.
Practice Mock Interviews – This helps in overcoming nervousness.
Stay Positive & Confident – Believe in your preparation.
By following these strategies, you can crack the Judiciary Mains & Interview Round with confidence and achieve your goal of becoming a judge.
Would you like personalized tips or study materials for your preparation? Let us know!
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