How to Clear the Law Clerk Research Associate Supreme Court Examination: A Comprehensive Guide

Authored by Harsh Gupta, former Law Clerk Cum Research Associate, Supreme Court of India.

A Complete Guide — From a Former Law Clerk

Over the years, I’ve received many messages from law students, interns, and young lawyers, all eager to know one thing:

“How to become a Law Clerk at the Supreme Court of India?”

Having worked as a Law Clerk myself in the Supreme Court Registry—and having interacted closely with others posted in Judges’ chambers—I want to share the real picture of the process, the work, and how to prepare for the 2026 examination. For many students, this examination is a gateway into a highly respected and rewarding career. In this blog post, I will address common queries and provide actionable insights for those looking to clear the exam successfully.

Understanding the Examination

The Law Clerk Research Associate Supreme Court Examination is designed to assess candidates' knowledge and analytical abilities in legal matters pertinent to the Supreme Court. This examination holds significant importance as the role of a law clerk involves assisting judges in research and writing, contributing directly to the judicial decision-making process.

A law clerk not only aids in handling case files but also engages in comprehensive research that supports judges in formulating their opinions. Understanding the intricacies of law and the examination format can be pivotal in achieving success. However, this facet stands true only when a law clerk is attached to a judicial chamber of the Hon'ble Supreme Court.

So, let's dive deep into the different roles a law clerk may get into during clerkship tenure.

What Does a Law Clerk-cum-Research Associate Do?

A Law Clerk-cum-Research Associate is engaged on a short-term contractual assignment to assist either:

✅ A Judge directly (in the Judge’s Chamber):

• Conduct legal research for ongoing and reserved matters

• Prepare briefs and synopses of petitions and appeals

• Assist in drafting speeches, research notes, and sometimes judgments

• Observe court proceedings and prepare detailed hearing notes

• Summarise judgments and identify key legal issues

OR

✅ The Supreme Court Registry:

• Work in administrative and research sections, such as:

  • Centre for Research and Planning (CRP): policy research, analytical projects, legal studies

  • National Court Management Systems (NCMS): data-driven reforms, case management tools

  • Information & Statistics Secretariat: reports, statistical studies, and analytics

• Assist in projects relating to judicial administration and systemic reforms

  
  

📝 How Are Law Clerks Allocated Between Chambers and the Registry?

This is crucial to understand.

• All successful candidates are placed in a pool after the examination and interviews.

• Based on the number of vacancies arising:

  • In Judges’ Chambers

  • In various sections of the Registry

• Candidates are called in batches, not all at once.

• Whether you’re posted to a Judge’s Chamber or the Registry depends on:

  • Vacancies at that particular point in time

  • Administrative requirements

  • Internal matching of candidates to roles

Hence, a candidate may receive a call for a Judges’ Chamber, for the Registry, or for either depending on the vacancies when their turn comes.

Your rank is certainly important, but it’s not the sole factor deciding your posting. Timing and administrative needs play a significant role.

For example, in my own case, I received an offer for a Judges’ Chamber but could not join due to personal reasons, and instead worked in the Registry later. Many clerks similarly rotate between roles as vacancies change during the year.

A well-organized law library offering a wealth of resources for study.

Eligibility Criteria

Before diving into preparation, it is crucial to understand the eligibility criteria for the examination:

Educational Qualifications Required

• The official 2024 Scheme specifies the following:

  ✅ Indian citizen, aged 20–32 years as on the last date of registration

• ✅ Law graduate from a BCI-recognized university OR

• ✅ Final-year student of 5-year or 3-year LL.B. (must complete degree before joining)

• ✅ Must possess:

  • Strong research and analytical skills

  • Legal drafting ability

  • Familiarity with legal research databases (SCC Online, eSCR, Manupatra, LexisNexis, etc.)

  
  

Exam Pattern and Syllabus

The latest process involves three stages:

Part I — MCQ Test

• 100 questions

• Duration: 2½ hours

• Tests:

  • Constitution of India

  • CPC, CrPC, IPC, Evidence Act, Contract Law

  • Reading comprehension

  • Recent legal developments

• Negative marking: 0.25 per wrong answer

Part II — Subjective Written Paper

• Duration: 3½ hours (including reading time)

• Total marks: 300

• Includes:

  1. Brief/Synopsis Writing (150 marks)Summarising a legal file (max 750 words)

  2. Draft Research Memo (75 marks)Providing legal opinion on given facts with statutes and precedents

  3. Analytical Essay (75 marks)Writing on one of five provided legal topics (350–500 words)

Candidates must secure at least 50% to qualify Part II.

Part III — Interview

• 150 marks

• Assesses:

  • Legal reasoning

  • Communication skills

  • Awareness of current legal issues

• Conducted only for candidates clearing both written parts.

  
  

  What Happens After You Clear the Exam?

  • Designated officials from Judicial Chambers inform the Registry of their clerkship vacancies.

  • Registry shares lists of candidates based on the merit list and preferences.

  • Judges may conduct online or in-person interviews to select Law Clerks.

  • Those not immediately placed may:

    • Join the Reserve Pool, waiting for vacancies in Judges’ Chambers or Registry sections

    • Remain on the Waitlist for future vacancies

  Throughout the year, as new Judges are appointed, existing Judges retire, or new projects arise in the Registry, the Supreme Court calls candidates as required.

  Hence, successful candidates might:

  • Be immediately appointed to a Judge’s Chamber

  • Initially join the Registry and shift later to a Judge’s Chamber

  • Or be assigned to projects under the Centre for Research and Planning

  
  

• 💰 Salary and Contract Terms

  • ₹80,000/month in the first year

  • ₹90,000/month if extended

  • No additional allowances or perks

  • Engagement is purely contractual—no claim for permanent employment

  • Clerks must maintain strict confidentiality even after leaving the role

  • Clerks are barred from practising law during the tenure and cannot appear before the Judge they served for 2 years afterward

    
    

Key Subjects and Topics to Focus On

1. Indian Constitutional Law

2. Legal Research and Writing

3. Civil Procedure Code, CrPC, and Evidence Act

4. Recent Landmark Judgments

5. Jurisprudence

   
   

Develop a robust study schedule targeting these key subjects as they form the core of the examination.

An inviting study space filled with law textbooks that encourage learning.

Preparation Tips

Effective preparation is the cornerstone of success. Here are some actionable tips:

Recommended Study Materials and Resources

🧠 How to Prepare for the Exam

From my own experience:

• Study Bare Acts thoroughly, including illustrations and recent amendments

• Regularly summarise judgments to practice concise legal writing

• Write mock legal memos and briefs to simulate Part II

• Keep up with recent Supreme Court judgments and policy developments

• Practise precise, structured writing — clarity matters more than length

Effective Study Strategies and Time Management Tips

• Create a study timetable allocating time specifically for each subject.

• Utilize active recall and spaced repetition techniques to enhance memory retention.

• Join study groups to discuss challenging topics and gain different perspectives.

• Practice previous years' question papers to get familiar with the exam format.

  
  

Common Queries from Students

Here, I address several common queries that often arise among law aspirants.

Query 1: How should I start my preparation?

Answer: Begin by gathering all necessary study materials and understanding the syllabus thoroughly. Set up a study plan where you allocate time slots for each subject while ensuring some time for revision. Start with the most challenging topics to build confidence, and gradually move to your stronger areas.

Query 2: What are the best books and resources for this exam?

Answer: From my personal prep and observations:

• Bare Acts — especially Constitution, CPC, CrPC, Evidence Act, Contract, IPC

• Supreme Court judgments — Read recent landmark rulings

• Legal writing practice — Summarize judgments in ~200-300 words

• Legal GK updates — Keep track of big judgments and government notifications

Specific helpful resources:

• M.P. Jain – Indian Constitutional Law

• Takwani – Civil Procedure

• Ratanlal & Dhirajlal – Criminal Law

• Online portals like SCC Online Blog, LiveLaw, Bar & Bench.

Query 3: How can I manage my time effectively during preparation?

Answer: A structured study schedule is critical. Use a planner to break down your daily study goals, ensuring you mix difficult concepts with easier topics for better flow. Consider using apps like Trello or Notion for keeping track of your progress and adjustments.

Query 4: What are the key areas to focus on for the exam?

Answer: Focus heavily on Constitutional Law, as it is foundational to many legal principles. Additionally, stay updated on recent judgments as they can appear in both objective and descriptive sections of the exam.

Query 5: How can I stay motivated throughout the preparation period?

Answer: Motivation can wane over time, so it's important to set small, manageable goals and reward yourself upon achieving them. Incorporate breaks and self-care routines to rejuvenate and refocus. Surround yourself with supportive peers who share the same goals.

Personal Experience and Tips

During my preparation for the Law Clerk Research Associate Supreme Court Examination, I faced struggles just like many of you might. I found that consistent study habits coupled with a positive mindset can create remarkable outcomes. Use visual aids, such as charts and summaries, as they can help in grasping complex topics effectively.

One crucial insight from my journey is the value of networking with legal professionals. Connect with judges and current clerks through workshops and seminars, as their experiences can provide unmatched insight into the role.

Encouraging Words for Aspiring Candidates

The journey to becoming a law clerk is filled with challenges and learning opportunities. However, with the right preparation, passion, and resilience, you can succeed in clearing the Law Clerk Research Associate Supreme Court Examination. Each step of your preparation can contribute immensely to your legal acumen and future career.

Remember, the effort you invest today will determine your future. Stay focused, stay curious, and most importantly, believe in your abilities. Best of luck to all aspiring candidates!

My Personal Reflection

Working as a Law Clerk at the Supreme Court was one of the most enriching experiences of my career. Whether in a Judge’s chamber or the Registry, you’ll find yourself immersed in the legal system’s nerve center. If you’re passionate about law and ready for hard work, this role can truly transform your perspective.

If you’re preparing for the exam or considering applying, go for it — and feel free to drop me your questions. I’ll be happy to help.

A tranquil study corner ideal for focused legal studies.