EXAM SYLLABUS

The detailed syllabus for the Jharkhand Civil Judge (Junior Division) exam is based on Advertisement No. 22/2023 (dated 14.08.2023) from JPSC, which lists broad subjects without ultra-fine topic breakdowns (common for state judiciary exams). Candidates must cover the full bare acts, key sections, amendments, landmark judgments, and principles.

As of 2026 (current time), many sources indicate the syllabus has been updated to incorporate the new criminal laws effective from July 1, 2024:

Indian Penal Code, 1860 ? replaced by Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (BNS)

Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973 ? replaced by Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 (BNSS)

Indian Evidence Act, 1872 ? replaced by Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023 (BSA)

Exam Structure

1. Prelims Examination

2. Mains Examination

3. Viva-Voce Test

Preliminary Entrance Test 

Detailed Syllabus (broad subjects; cover entire acts + basics):

EXAM PATTERN

The exam pattern for the Civil Judge (Junior Division) in the Jharkhand Judicial Service, as per Advertisement No. 22/2023 (dated 14.08.2023) from JPSC, is structured in three stages. This pattern has remained consistent in recent references (up to 2025–2026 sources), though always confirm with the latest official notification on jpsc.gov.in or jharkhandhighcourt.nic.in for any updates in newer recruitments.

Exam Structure

1. Prelims Examination

2. Mains Examination

3. Viva-Voce Test

Preliminary Entrance Test

Nature: Written Examination – Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) / Objective Type.

Total Marks: 100 marks (aggregate).

Duration: 2 hours.

Negative Marking: No negative marking (as per the 2023 advertisement).

Purpose: Qualifying/Screening only. Marks not counted in final merit/selection.

Subjects/Syllabus

General English

General Knowledge (including Current Affairs)

The Code of Civil Procedure, 1908

The Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973

The Indian Evidence Act, 1872

The Law of Contract, 1872

The Indian Penal Code, 1860

Shortlisting: Candidates up to 15 times the total vacancies (category-wise) are called for Main Examination. In case of ties at the cutoff, all such candidates are called (even if it exceeds 15 times).

Note: Conducted only if the number of applicants is very large, at the discretion of the Jharkhand High Court.

Final Selection / Merit List

Basis: Combined marks of Main Examination (400 marks) + Viva-Voce (100 marks) ? Total 500 marks.

Tie-Breaker (if marks equal in final list):

Preference to candidates with Post Graduate Degree in Law.

Then, based on experience in legal practice (if any).

Then, seniority in age.

Category-wise Merit Lists: Prepared separately.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

The eligibility criteria for the post of Civil Judge (Junior Division) in the Jharkhand Judicial Service, as per Advertisement No. 22/2023 (dated 14.08.2023) issued by Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC), are detailed below.

Nationality

Must be an Indian citizen.

Age Limit

Minimum Age: Above 22 years.

Maximum Age: Below 35 years.

Age Relaxation

Female candidates, Scheduled Caste (SC), or Scheduled Tribe (ST) candidates: Relaxation of 3 years in the upper age limit (i.e., up to 38 years).

Disabled Candidates (Persons with Disabilities): Category-wise relaxation of 10 years in the upper age limit.

Educational Qualification

Graduate in Law (LL.B. or equivalent) from a recognized University.

Must be enrolled as an advocate under The Advocates Act, 1961 (valid enrollment/registration required) till the last date of submission of the application form (i.e., 21.09.2023 for this recruitment).

Additional Requirement: Candidate should possess sound health, bear good moral character, and not be involved in, or related to, any criminal case involving moral turpitude.

Important Conditions

Reservation Benefits: Applicable as per category (Unreserved, ST, SC, BC-I, BC-II, EWS), with horizontal reservations for women, primitive tribe, sports, and handicapped categories (Low Vision, Low Hearing, Locomotor Disability except Cerebral Palsy).

To claim reservation, candidates must submit required certificates (e.g., caste certificate in prescribed format, income & asset certificate for EWS, disability certificate with at least 40% relevant disability, local resident certificate, etc.) as detailed in the advertisement.

Certificates must match the entries in the online application; mismatches can lead to rejection.

Disqualifications: Candidates involved in misconduct, using unfair means, or previously debarred by UPSC or any State PSC are ineligible. No benefit if reservation not claimed in the application.

IMPORTANT DATES

The Jharkhand Public Service Commission has not yet announced any recruitment notification for the Jharkhand Judicial Service 2026. The Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) issued the official notification for the recruitment of Civil Judge (Junior Division) in August 2023 under Advertisement No. 22/2023. A total of 138 vacancies were announced through this recruitment process. The Commission announced the results of the Preliminary Examination on 2 July 2024, which had been conducted on 10 March 2024.

STUDY TIPS

To succeed in the Jharkhand Judicial Service Examination conducted by the Jharkhand High Court, candidates should prioritize thorough study of Bare Acts, especially CPC, CrPC, IPC, the Evidence Act, and relevant local laws. Equal importance should be given to General Knowledge, current affairs, and English/Hindi translation practice on a daily basis.

Start answer-writing practice for the Mains examination from the very beginning to build structure and clarity. Follow a disciplined study routine of around 10–12 hours daily and ensure continuous revision to strengthen retention and accuracy. Consistency and regular practice are key to clearing the exam successfully.

1. Master the Bare Acts

Read CPC, CrPC, IPC (BNS), Evidence Act, Constitution, and local laws thoroughly.

Focus on definitions, important sections, provisos, and illustrations.

Most Prelims questions are directly based on Bare Acts.

2. Prepare Prelims & Mains Together

Practice daily MCQs for Prelims.

Simultaneously work on descriptive answer writing for Mains.

Develop a structured format: Introduction – Law/Section – Analysis – Conclusion.

3. Strengthen Major & Local Laws

Give extra attention to procedural laws (CPC & CrPC).

Cover Jharkhand-specific local laws carefully.

4. Daily GK & Current Affairs

Read newspapers regularly.

Focus on legal current affairs and constitutional developments.

Revise static GK topics like History, Polity, and Geography.

5. Practice Previous Year Papers (PYQs)

Analyze trends and frequently asked topics.

Attempt papers under timed conditions.

6. Improve Language & Translation Skills

Practice English to Hindi and Hindi to English translation.

Work on grammar, vocabulary, and précis writing.

7. Regular Mock Tests & Revision

Take sectional and full-length mock tests.

Maintain short notes for quick revision.

Revise repeatedly to strengthen retention.

8. Maintain Discipline

Follow a strict study schedule (8–10+ hours daily).

Stay consistent and avoid last-minute cramming.

6 Month Study Plan

Month 1 – Foundation & Major Laws (Part 1)

Start with CPC and Constitution (read Bare Acts line by line).

Make concise notes of important sections and case laws.

Begin daily MCQ practice (25–30 questions).

Start writing 1–2 Mains answers daily.

Month 2 – Major Laws (Part 2)

Cover CrPC, IPC (BNS), Evidence Act thoroughly.

Focus on procedural aspects and frequently asked sections.

Increase MCQ practice (40–50 daily).

Write 2–3 descriptive answers daily.

Weekly revision of Months 1 & 2 topics.

Month 3 – Minor & Local Laws

Study Contract Act, Torts, Specific Relief Act, Transfer of Property Act.

Cover Jharkhand-specific local laws carefully.

Attempt sectional Prelims mock tests.

Practice translation (English ? Hindi) and précis writing.

Month 4 – Consolidation & Answer Writing

Revise all major laws again from Bare Acts.

Attempt 2 sectional mocks weekly.

Write 1 full Mains paper every week.

Improve answer structure and time management.

Month 5 – Full-Length Practice Phase

Attempt 2–3 full-length Prelims mocks weekly.

Write 1–2 full Mains papers per week.

Analyze mistakes and revise weak areas.

Revise important landmark judgments and constitutional amendments.

Month 6 – Final Revision & Polishing

Quick revision of all Bare Acts and short notes.

Re-solve Previous Year Question Papers (PYQs).

Focus on high-weightage topics and frequently asked sections.

Prepare lightly for Interview (legal awareness, personality, current issues).

Suggested Daily Routine

6–7 hours Law subjects

1–2 hours MCQs

1–2 hours Answer writing

30–45 minutes GK & current affairs

3 Month Study Plan

Month 1 – Major Laws Intensive Revision

Revise CPC, CrPC, IPC (BNS), Evidence Act, Constitution thoroughly from Bare Acts.

Highlight important sections, provisos, and illustrations.

Practice 40–50 MCQs daily.

Write 2–3 structured Mains answers daily.

Start revising important landmark judgments.

Month 2 – Minor & Local Laws + Practice

Cover Contract Act, Torts, Specific Relief Act, Transfer of Property Act.

Revise Jharkhand-specific local laws carefully.

Solve Previous Year Question Papers (PYQs).

Attempt 2 sectional Prelims mocks per week.

Practice translation (English ? Hindi) and improve answer presentation.

Month 3 – Full-Length Mocks & Final Revision

Attempt 2–3 full-length Prelims mocks per week.

Write at least 1 full Mains paper weekly.

Revise all Bare Acts and short notes repeatedly.

Identify weak areas and strengthen them.

Focus on time management and structured answers.

Suggested Daily Schedule

5–6 hours Law revision

1–2 hours MCQ practice

1–2 hours Answer writing

30–45 minutes GK & curren

STUDY TIPS

To succeed in the Jharkhand Judicial Service Examination conducted by the Jharkhand High Court, candidates should prioritize thorough study of Bare Acts, especially CPC, CrPC, IPC, the Evidence Act, and relevant local laws. Equal importance should be given to General Knowledge, current affairs, and English/Hindi translation practice on a daily basis.

Start answer-writing practice for the Mains examination from the very beginning to build structure and clarity. Follow a disciplined study routine of around 10–12 hours daily and ensure continuous revision to strengthen retention and accuracy. Consistency and regular practice are key to clearing the exam successfully.

1. Master the Bare Acts

Read CPC, CrPC, IPC (BNS), Evidence Act, Constitution, and local laws thoroughly.

Focus on definitions, important sections, provisos, and illustrations.

Most Prelims questions are directly based on Bare Acts.

2. Prepare Prelims & Mains Together

Practice daily MCQs for Prelims.

Simultaneously work on descriptive answer writing for Mains.

Develop a structured format: Introduction – Law/Section – Analysis – Conclusion.

3. Strengthen Major & Local Laws

Give extra attention to procedural laws (CPC & CrPC).

Cover Jharkhand-specific local laws carefully.

4. Daily GK & Current Affairs

Read newspapers regularly.

Focus on legal current affairs and constitutional developments.

Revise static GK topics like History, Polity, and Geography.

5. Practice Previous Year Papers (PYQs)

Analyze trends and frequently asked topics.

Attempt papers under timed conditions.

6. Improve Language & Translation Skills

Practice English to Hindi and Hindi to English translation.

Work on grammar, vocabulary, and précis writing.

7. Regular Mock Tests & Revision

Take sectional and full-length mock tests.

Maintain short notes for quick revision.

Revise repeatedly to strengthen retention.

8. Maintain Discipline

Follow a strict study schedule (8–10+ hours daily).

Stay consistent and avoid last-minute cramming.

6 Month Study Plan

Month 1 – Foundation & Major Laws (Part 1)

Start with CPC and Constitution (read Bare Acts line by line).

Make concise notes of important sections and case laws.

Begin daily MCQ practice (25–30 questions).

Start writing 1–2 Mains answers daily.

Month 2 – Major Laws (Part 2)

Cover CrPC, IPC (BNS), Evidence Act thoroughly.

Focus on procedural aspects and frequently asked sections.

Increase MCQ practice (40–50 daily).

Write 2–3 descriptive answers daily.

Weekly revision of Months 1 & 2 topics.

Month 3 – Minor & Local Laws

Study Contract Act, Torts, Specific Relief Act, Transfer of Property Act.

Cover Jharkhand-specific local laws carefully.

Attempt sectional Prelims mock tests.

Practice translation (English ? Hindi) and précis writing.

Month 4 – Consolidation & Answer Writing

Revise all major laws again from Bare Acts.

Attempt 2 sectional mocks weekly.

Write 1 full Mains paper every week.

Improve answer structure and time management.

Month 5 – Full-Length Practice Phase

Attempt 2–3 full-length Prelims mocks weekly.

Write 1–2 full Mains papers per week.

Analyze mistakes and revise weak areas.

Revise important landmark judgments and constitutional amendments.

Month 6 – Final Revision & Polishing

Quick revision of all Bare Acts and short notes.

Re-solve Previous Year Question Papers (PYQs).

Focus on high-weightage topics and frequently asked sections.

Prepare lightly for Interview (legal awareness, personality, current issues).

Suggested Daily Routine

6–7 hours Law subjects

1–2 hours MCQs

1–2 hours Answer writing

30–45 minutes GK & current affairs

3 Month Study Plan

Month 1 – Major Laws Intensive Revision

Revise CPC, CrPC, IPC (BNS), Evidence Act, Constitution thoroughly from Bare Acts.

Highlight important sections, provisos, and illustrations.

Practice 40–50 MCQs daily.

Write 2–3 structured Mains answers daily.

Start revising important landmark judgments.

Month 2 – Minor & Local Laws + Practice

Cover Contract Act, Torts, Specific Relief Act, Transfer of Property Act.

Revise Jharkhand-specific local laws carefully.

Solve Previous Year Question Papers (PYQs).

Attempt 2 sectional Prelims mocks per week.

Practice translation (English ? Hindi) and improve answer presentation.

Month 3 – Full-Length Mocks & Final Revision

Attempt 2–3 full-length Prelims mocks per week.

Write at least 1 full Mains paper weekly.

Revise all Bare Acts and short notes repeatedly.

Identify weak areas and strengthen them.

Focus on time management and structured answers.

Suggested Daily Schedule

5–6 hours Law revision

1–2 hours MCQ practice

1–2 hours Answer writing

30–45 minutes GK & current legal updates

1 Month Study Plan

Week 1 – Major Laws Revision

Thoroughly revise CPC, CrPC, IPC (BNS), Evidence Act, and Constitution from Bare Acts.

Mark important sections, provisos, and frequently asked topics.

Practice 40–50 MCQs daily.

Write 2–3 Mains answers daily with proper structure.

Week 2 – Minor & Local Laws

Revise Contract Act, Torts, Specific Relief Act, Transfer of Property Act.

Carefully revise Jharkhand-specific local laws.

Practice translation (English ? Hindi) and précis writing.

Attempt 2 sectional mock tests.

Week 3 – Full-Length Mock Practice

Attempt 3–4 full-length Prelims mock tests under exam conditions.

Write at least 2 full Mains practice papers.

Analyze mistakes and revise weak areas.

Improve time management and answer presentation.

Week 4 – Final Revision & Polishing

Quick revision of all Bare Acts and short notes.

Re-solve important Previous Year Question Papers (PYQs).

Focus on high-weightage topics.

Keep the last 2–3 days for light revision and mental relaxation.

Suggested Daily Routine

6–7 hours Law revision

1–2 hours MCQs

1–2 hours Answer writing

30 minutes GK & current affairs

OVERVIEW

The Jharkhand High Court conducts the Jharkhand Judicial Service Examination annually to select eligible and qualified candidates for the post of Civil Judge (Junior Division) in the state.  This is a prestigious state-level judicial service examination conducted by the Jharkhand High Court, through which Civil Judges (Junior Division) are appointed in the subordinate courts. The selection process is carried out in three stages - Preliminary Examination (100 marks), Main Examination (400 marks), and Interview (100 marks). A Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree is mandatory to be eligible for this examination.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

The eligibility criteria for the post of Civil Judge (Junior Division) in the Jharkhand Judicial Service, as per Advertisement No. 22/2023 (dated 14.08.2023) issued by Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC), are detailed below.

Nationality

Must be an Indian citizen.

Age Limit

Minimum Age: Above 22 years.

Maximum Age: Below 35 years.

Age Relaxation

Female candidates, Scheduled Caste (SC), or Scheduled Tribe (ST) candidates: Relaxation of 3 years in the upper age limit (i.e., up to 38 years).

Disabled Candidates (Persons with Disabilities): Category-wise relaxation of 10 years in the upper age limit.

Educational Qualification

Graduate in Law (LL.B. or equivalent) from a recognized University.

Must be enrolled as an advocate under The Advocates Act, 1961 (valid enrollment/registration required) till the last date of submission of the application form (i.e., 21.09.2023 for this recruitment).

Additional Requirement: Candidate should possess sound health, bear good moral character, and not be involved in, or related to, any criminal case involving moral turpitude.

Important Conditions

Reservation Benefits: Applicable as per category (Unreserved, ST, SC, BC-I, BC-II, EWS), with horizontal reservations for women, primitive tribe, sports, and handicapped categories (Low Vision, Low Hearing, Locomotor Disability except Cerebral Palsy).

To claim reservation, candidates must submit required certificates (e.g., caste certificate in prescribed format, income & asset certificate for EWS, disability certificate with at least 40% relevant disability, local resident certificate, etc.) as detailed in the advertisement.

Certificates must match the entries in the online application; mismatches can lead to rejection.

Disqualifications: Candidates involved in misconduct, using unfair means, or previously debarred by UPSC or any State PSC are ineligible. No benefit if reservation not claimed in the application.

EXAM PATTERN

The exam pattern for the Civil Judge (Junior Division) in the Jharkhand Judicial Service, as per Advertisement No. 22/2023 (dated 14.08.2023) from JPSC, is structured in three stages. This pattern has remained consistent in recent references (up to 2025–2026 sources), though always confirm with the latest official notification on jpsc.gov.in or jharkhandhighcourt.nic.in for any updates in newer recruitments.

Exam Structure

1. Prelims Examination

2. Mains Examination

3. Viva-Voce Test

Preliminary Entrance Test

Nature: Written Examination – Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) / Objective Type.

Total Marks: 100 marks (aggregate).

Duration: 2 hours.

Negative Marking: No negative marking (as per the 2023 advertisement).

Purpose: Qualifying/Screening only. Marks not counted in final merit/selection.

Subjects/Syllabus

General English

OVERVIEW

The Jharkhand High Court conducts the Jharkhand Judicial Service Examination annually to select eligible and qualified candidates for the post of Civil Judge (Junior Division) in the state.  This is a prestigious state-level judicial service examination conducted by the Jharkhand High Court, through which Civil Judges (Junior Division) are appointed in the subordinate courts. The selection process is carried out in three stages - Preliminary Examination (100 marks), Main Examination (400 marks), and Interview (100 marks). A Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree is mandatory to be eligible for this examination.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

The eligibility criteria for the post of Civil Judge (Junior Division) in the Jharkhand Judicial Service, as per Advertisement No. 22/2023 (dated 14.08.2023) issued by Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC), are detailed below.

Nationality

Must be an Indian citizen.

Age Limit

Minimum Age: Above 22 years.

Maximum Age: Below 35 years.

Age Relaxation

Female candidates, Scheduled Caste (SC), or Scheduled Tribe (ST) candidates: Relaxation of 3 years in the upper age limit (i.e., up to 38 years).

Disabled Candidates (Persons with Disabilities): Category-wise relaxation of 10 years in the upper age limit.

Educational Qualification

Graduate in Law (LL.B. or equivalent) from a recognized University.

Must be enrolled as an advocate under The Advocates Act, 1961 (valid enrollment/registration required) till the last date of submission of the application form (i.e., 21.09.2023 for this recruitment).

Additional Requirement: Candidate should possess sound health, bear good moral character, and not be involved in, or related to, any criminal case involving moral turpitude.

Important Conditions

Reservation Benefits: Applicable as per category (Unreserved, ST, SC, BC-I, BC-II, EWS), with horizontal reservations for women, primitive tribe, sports, and handicapped categories (Low Vision, Low Hearing, Locomotor Disability except Cerebral Palsy).

To claim reservation, candidates must submit required certificates (e.g., caste certificate in prescribed format, income & asset certificate for EWS, disability certificate with at least 40% relevant disability, local resident certificate, etc.) as detailed in the advertisement.

Certificates must match the entries in the online application; mismatches can lead to rejection.

Disqualifications: Candidates involved in misconduct, using unfair means, or previously debarred by UPSC or any State PSC are ineligible. No benefit if reservation not claimed in the application.

EXAM PATTERN

The exam pattern for the Civil Judge (Junior Division) in the Jharkhand Judicial Service, as per Advertisement No. 22/2023 (dated 14.08.2023) from JPSC, is structured in three stages. This pattern has remained consistent in recent references (up to 2025–2026 sources), though always confirm with the latest official notification on jpsc.gov.in or jharkhandhighcourt.nic.in for any updates in newer recruitments.

Exam Structure

1. Prelims Examination

2. Mains Examination

3. Viva-Voce Test

Preliminary Entrance Test

Nature: Written Examination – Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) / Objective Type.

Total Marks: 100 marks (aggregate).

Duration: 2 hours.

Negative Marking: No negative marking (as per the 2023 advertisement).

Purpose: Qualifying/Screening only. Marks not counted in final merit/selection.

Subjects/Syllabus

General English

General Knowledge (including Current Affairs)

The Code of Civil Procedure, 1908

The Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973

The Indian Evidence Act, 1872

The Law of Contract, 1872

The Indian Penal Code, 1860

Shortlisting: Candidates up to 15 times the total vacancies (category-wise) are called for Main Examination. In case of ties at the cutoff, all such candidates are called (even if it exceeds 15 times).

Note: Conducted only if the number of applicants is very large, at the discretion of the Jharkhand High Court.

Mains Examination

Nature: Written Examination (Subjective/Descriptive type questions).

Total Papers: 4 papers, each of 100 marks ? Total 400 marks.

Duration Per Paper: 3 hours.

Compulsory to Appear: In each paper.

Subjects/Papers

Paper – I (Procedural & Criminal Laws):

The Code of Civil Procedure, 1908

The Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973

The Indian Penal Code, 1860

The Indian Evidence Act, 1872

The Limitation Act, 1963

Paper – II (Commercial & Property Laws):

The Contract Act, 1872

The Sale of Goods Act, 1930

The Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881

The Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996

The Transfer of Property Act, 1882

Paper – III (Personal & Other Laws):

Hindu Law and Mohammedan Law

Rent Control Law

The Specific Relief Act, 1963

Jurisprudence

Paper – IV (Language Paper):

Hindi & English (Essay, Precis Writing, Translation & Paraphrase)

Shortlisting: Candidates up to 3 times the total vacancies (category-wise) are called for Viva-Voce. In case of ties at the cutoff, all such candidates are called (even if it exceeds 3 times).

Qualifying Marks: As per State Government resolutions (minimum marks required to qualify; exact figures vary but generally apply category-wise).

Viva-Voce Test (Personal Interview / Oral Examination)

Total Marks: 100 marks.

Nature: Oral examination to assess personality, legal knowledge, suitability, etc.

Minimum Qualifying Marks:

25% for General / EWS candidates.

20% for SC / ST / EBC / BC candidates.

Important: No candidate is eligible for final selection/appointment if they score below the minimum in Viva-Voce, regardless of high marks in the Main Examination.

Final Selection / Merit List

Basis: Combined marks of Main Examination (400 marks) + Viva-Voce (100 marks) ? Total 500 marks.

Tie-Breaker (if marks equal in final list):

Preference to candidates with Post Graduate Degree in Law.

Then, based on experience in legal practice (if any).

Then, seniority in age.

Category-wise Merit Lists: Prepared separately.

???????EXAM SYLLABUS

The detailed syllabus for the Jharkhand Civil Judge (Junior Division) exam is based on Advertisement No. 22/2023 (dated 14.08.2023) from JPSC, which lists broad subjects without ultra-fine topic breakdowns (common for state judiciary exams). Candidates must cover the full bare acts, key sections, amendments, landmark judgments, and principles.

As of 2026 (current time), many sources indicate the syllabus has been updated to incorporate the new criminal laws effective from July 1, 2024:

Indian Penal Code, 1860 ? replaced by Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (BNS)

Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973 ? replaced by Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 (BNSS)

Indian Evidence Act, 1872 ? replaced by Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023 (BSA)

Exam Structure

1. Prelims Examination

2. Mains Examination

3. Viva-Voce Test

Preliminary Entrance Test 

Detailed Syllabus (broad subjects; cover entire acts + basics):

General English: Grammar (tenses, articles, prepositions, voice, narration), vocabulary (synonyms/antonyms, idioms, one-word substitution), comprehension, sentence correction, precis/essay basics.

General Knowledge (including Current Affairs): Indian History, Geography, Polity, Economy, Science & Technology, Environment, Jharkhand-specific GK (history, culture, geography, economy), National/International Current Affairs (last 1–2 years), Awards, Sports, Books & Authors.

The Code of Civil Procedure, 1908: Full act – Sections on jurisdiction, decrees/orders, execution, appeals, suits (representative, res judicata, limitation), temporary injunctions, attachments, etc. Key principles + amendments.

Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 (BNSS) (replaces CrPC): Investigation, trial procedures, bail, FIR, charge sheet, summons/warrants, trial types (sessions/magistrate), appeals, revisions, maintenance, juvenile justice links.

Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023 (BSA) (replaces Evidence Act): Relevancy of facts, admissions/confessions, burden of proof, witnesses, documentary/oral evidence, presumptions, electronic evidence, privileged communications.

The Law of Contract, 1872: Full act – Formation (offer, acceptance, consideration), capacity, free consent, void/voidable agreements, performance, breach/remedies, quasi-contracts, indemnity/guarantee, bailment, agency.

Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (BNS) (replaces IPC): General exceptions, punishments, offenses against body (murder, hurt, kidnapping), property (theft, robbery, dacoity), state (sedition/treason updates), women/children, defamation, criminal intimidation, new provisions (mob lynching, organized crime, terrorism links).

Mains Examination

Paper – I (Procedural & Criminal Laws – 100 marks):

The Code of Civil Procedure, 1908: Jurisdiction, place of suing, res judicata, foreign judgments, execution, appeals, reference/revision/review, suits by/against government, temporary injunctions, attachments before judgment.

Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 (BNSS): Full procedural aspects – FIR, investigation, arrest, bail (anticipatory/regular), charge framing, trial (warrant/summons/summary), judgment, appeals, transfer of cases, maintenance under Section 125 equivalent, compounding.

Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (BNS): General explanations, punishments, abetment, conspiracy, offenses against public tranquility, body (culpable homicide, murder, hurt, grievous hurt), property (theft, extortion, robbery, cheating), documents/forgery, criminal breach of trust.

Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023 (BSA): Full act – Relevancy, facts forming part of same transaction, motive/opportunity, admissions, confessions, dying declarations, estoppel, witnesses (competency, examination), burden of proof, presumptions.

The Limitation Act, 1963: Computation of limitation, bar of limitation, acknowledgment, suits (specific periods), appeals/revisions.

Paper – II (Commercial & Property Laws – 100 marks):

The Contract Act, 1872: As above, plus special contracts (sale, indemnity, guarantee, bailment, pledge, agency).

The Sale of Goods Act, 1930: Formation of contract of sale, conditions/warranties, effects of contract (property transfer, risk), unpaid seller rights, suits for breach.

The Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881: Promissory notes, bills of exchange, cheques; negotiation, endorsement, presentment, dishonor, notice, liability of parties, crossing, banker protection.

The Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996: Arbitration agreement, composition, conduct, award (making, challenge, enforcement), conciliation, international commercial arbitration.

The Transfer of Property Act, 1882: Movable/immovable property, sale, mortgage (types), lease, exchange, gift, actionable claims, doctrine of lis pendens, part-performance, ostensible owner.

Paper – III (Personal Laws & Others – 100 marks):

Hindu Law (Hindu Marriage Act, 1955; Hindu Succession Act, 1956; Hindu Minority & Guardianship Act, 1956; Hindu Adoptions & Maintenance Act, 1956): Marriage (conditions, ceremonies, divorce, restitution), joint family/coparcenary, succession (intestate/testate), maintenance, adoption, guardianship.

Mohammedan Law (Sunni & Shia): Marriage (nikah, dower), divorce (talaq, khula), maintenance, inheritance (sharers, residuaries), gifts (hiba), wakf.

Rent Control Law: Jharkhand-specific Rent Control Act provisions (if any) or general principles – eviction grounds, fair rent, tenant/landlord rights.

The Specific Relief Act, 1963: Recovering possession, specific performance, contracts not specifically enforceable, injunctions (temporary/perpetual), declaratory decrees, rectification/cancellation.

Jurisprudence: Schools (analytical, historical, sociological), sources of law, rights/duties, ownership/possession, liability, legal personality, precedent, custom, legislation.

Paper – IV (Language Paper – 100 marks):

Hindi & English: Essay writing (on legal/social topics), Precis writing, Translation (English to Hindi & vice versa), Paraphrase, Comprehension, Grammar/vocabulary application.

Viva-Voce (Interview)

100 marks; minimum qualifying: 25% (General/EWS), 20% (SC/ST/EBC/BC).

Assesses personality, legal knowledge, current affairs, ethics, suitability for judiciary. No fixed syllabus – prepare from mains subjects + recent judgments, constitutional issues, Jharkhand-specific legal developments.

SELECTION PROCESS

The Jharkhand Judicial Service Examination is conducted by the Jharkhand High Court for recruitment to the post of Civil Judge (Junior Division). The selection process consists of three stages:

Preliminary Examination (100 Marks)

Objective-type (MCQ) paper

Acts as a screening test

Marks are generally not counted in the final merit list

Covers core law subjects and general knowledge

Main Examination (400 Marks)

Descriptive (written) examination

Includes papers on major law subjects, procedural laws, language, and judgment writing

Marks obtained in Mains are considered for final merit

Interview / Viva-Voce (100 Marks)

Personality assessment round

Tests legal knowledge, practical application, confidence, and communication skills

Final Merit List

The final selection is based on the combined marks obtained in the Main Examination and Interview. Candidates who successfully clear all three stages are appointed as Civil Judge (Junior Division) in Jharkhand.