Supreme Court of India Recruitment 2026 for 90 Law Clerks

Supreme Court of India Recruitment 2026 for 90 Law Clerks

Advertisement No. F.21(LC)/2026-SC(RC): The Supreme Court of India has announced a prestigious opportunity for law graduates and final-year law students to work as Law Clerk-cum-Research Associates on a short-term contractual basis for the 2026-2027 term. A panel of approximately 90 candidates will be selected for this full-time assignment, which offers a consolidated monthly remuneration of ₹1,00,000. The selection process involves a three-phase examination, including an MCQ test, a subjective written test, and an interview. The online application window is open from January 20, 2026, to February 07, 2026.

Post Name:	Law Clerk-cum-Research Associate
Last Date:	07 February 2026
Total Posts:	90 (Approximately)

The Supreme Court of India, the apex judicial body of the country, has opened its doors for aspiring legal minds to gain invaluable experience by working closely with the judiciary. Through its latest advertisement, the SCI is seeking to prepare a panel of around 90 candidates for the engagement of Law Clerk-cum-Research Associates. This role is a highly sought-after position for young law professionals, offering a unique opportunity to assist the Hon'ble Judges of the Supreme Court in their judicial and research work. It provides an unparalleled insight into the workings of the highest court of the land and exposure to a wide spectrum of legal issues.

This engagement is purely contractual for the 2026-2027 term and is a full-time commitment. Selected candidates will receive a substantial consolidated stipend of ₹1,00,000 per month. The selection process is comprehensive, designed to test the candidates' legal acumen, analytical abilities, and writing skills through a multi-stage examination scheduled for March 07, 2026. This is not just a job but a stepping stone for a distinguished career in law, be it in litigation, academia, or the corporate sector. Eligible candidates, including those in their final year of law school, are encouraged to apply online before the deadline of February 07, 2026.

Supreme Court Law Clerk Recruitment 2026 (Important Points)

Candidates must take note of the crucial dates and details for this recruitment process. The entire process, from application to admit card generation, will be conducted online.

Particulars	Details
Recruitment Organization	Supreme Court of India (SCI)
Advertisement Number	F.21(LC)/2026-SC(RC)
Post Name	Law Clerk-cum-Research Associate
Total Panel Size	Approximately 90 Candidates
Application Start Date	20 January 2026
Application Last Date	07 February 2026
Written Examination Date	07 March 2026
Application Mode	Online
Job Type	Short-term Contractual Assignment
Official Website	www.sci.gov.in

Vacancy and Remuneration Details

This recruitment is for the preparation of a panel for a short-term contractual assignment. The details are as follows:

Position	Number of Panelists	Monthly Remuneration
Law Clerk-cum-Research Associate	Approximately 90	₹1,00,000/- (Consolidated)

Note: This is a full-time contractual assignment for the term 2026-2027. The engagement will not confer any right for regular appointment or continuance in the service of the Supreme Court of India. Law Clerks are prohibited from practicing as advocates in any court during their term.

Application and Test Fee

• All candidates are required to pay a non-refundable Application/Test Fee of ₹750/- plus applicable bank charges.

The fee must be paid online through the payment gateway provided by UCO Bank. No other mode of payment will be accepted.

Eligibility Criteria

Candidates must fulfill all the essential qualifications and age criteria to be eligible for the Written Tests.

Criteria	Eligibility Details
Educational Qualification	Law Graduates: The candidate must be a Law Graduate holding a Bachelor's Degree in Law (including a 5-Year Integrated Degree Course) from a university/institution recognized by the Bar Council of India for enrolment as an Advocate. This must be acquired before taking up the assignment. Final Year Law Students: Candidates currently in the fifth year of a Five-Year Integrated Law Course or the third year of a Three-Year Law Course are also eligible to apply. However, they must furnish proof of acquiring their Law qualification before their engagement as a Law Clerk begins.
Essential Skills	Candidates must possess: Strong research and analytical skills. Excellent writing and comprehension abilities. Proficiency in computer operations, including the ability to retrieve information from legal search engines like e-SCR, Manupatra, SCC Online, LexisNexis, Westlaw, etc.
Age Limit (as on 07.02.2026)	Minimum Age: 20 Years Maximum Age: 32 Years The candidate must not be below 20 years or above 32 years of age as on the closing date of the online application.

Selection Process

The selection of Law Clerk-cum-Research Associates is a rigorous three-phase process designed to identify candidates with strong legal knowledge, analytical depth, and effective communication skills.

1. Part I: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ) Test: This initial phase is an objective test designed to assess the candidate's foundational knowledge of the law, their ability to apply legal principles, and their comprehension skills.
2. Part II: Subjective Written Test: Candidates clearing Part I will proceed to this stage, which is held on the same day. This descriptive test evaluates the candidate's writing abilities, analytical skills, and the capacity to articulate legal arguments coherently.
3. Part III: Interview: Candidates who successfully qualify in both Part I and Part II will be called for a personal interview. This final stage assesses the candidate's personality, communication skills, presence of mind, and overall suitability for the role.

Shortlisting Criteria: If a large number of candidates secure the minimum qualifying marks (60%) in Part I, the answer sheets for Part II will be evaluated for candidates in a 1:10 ratio against the number of vacancies. Subsequently, candidates qualifying in both written tests will be called for the interview in a 1:3 ratio.

Exam Pattern and Syllabus

The written examination will be conducted in two parts on the same day across 23 cities in India. The total duration and marks for each part are structured to comprehensively test the candidates.

Part	Test Name	Mode	Key Details
Part I	Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ) Test	Online (Computer Based)	- Tests understanding and application of law, and comprehension skills. - There will be negative marking of 0.25 marks for each incorrect answer.
Part II	Subjective Written Test	Pen-and-Paper (Hybrid Mode)	- Questions will be displayed on the computer screen. - Answers must be written on paper provided at the exam center. - Tests writing and analytical skills.

Indicative Syllabus:

While the Supreme Court has not prescribed a detailed syllabus, based on the nature of the role, candidates should prepare thoroughly in the following areas:

• Core Law Subjects: Constitutional Law, Jurisprudence, Indian Penal Code (IPC), Code of Civil Procedure (CPC), Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), Indian Evidence Act, Law of Contracts, Property Law, Torts, and Family Law.
• Specialized Laws: Company Law, Intellectual Property Rights, Environmental Law, and Administrative Law.
• Legal and General English: Comprehension, essay writing, and legal drafting skills are crucial for the subjective paper.
• Legal Research & Current Affairs: In-depth knowledge of recent landmark judgments of the Supreme Court and High Courts, significant legal developments, and contemporary legal issues is essential.

PET (Physical Efficiency Test)

There is no Physical Efficiency Test (PET) or Physical Standard Test (PST) for the position of Law Clerk-cum-Research Associate, as it is a research-based and academic role.

How to Prepare for the Exam and Interview

A focused and disciplined approach is necessary to succeed in this highly competitive selection process.

Preparation for Written Tests (Part I & II):

• Build a Strong Foundation: Revisit the bare acts and authoritative commentaries for all core law subjects. Conceptual clarity is key for both MCQ and subjective questions.
• Stay Judicially Aware: Regularly read and analyze recent and landmark judgments of the Supreme Court. Follow legal news portals like LiveLaw, Bar & Bench, and the Supreme Court's official website to stay updated on legal developments.
• Practice Writing: This is non-negotiable for the subjective paper. Practice writing case comments, legal essays, and answers to previous years' judiciary exam questions. Focus on structuring your arguments logically and writing concisely.
• Mock Tests: Solve as many MCQs as possible from sources like CLAT PG, UGC NET (Law), and Judicial Services exam papers. This will help you manage time and improve accuracy, especially with negative marking.

Preparation for the Interview (Part III):

• Know Your CV: Be prepared to discuss everything mentioned in your application form, including internships, papers published, and areas of interest.
• Revise Core Concepts: The interview panel will test your fundamental understanding of the law. Be ready for in-depth questions on your favorite subjects.
• Develop a Legal Opinion: Form well-reasoned opinions on recent controversial legal issues and landmark judgments.
• Communication Skills: Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Your demeanor, clarity, and legal reasoning will be assessed.

Best Books for Preparation

Candidates should refer to standard textbooks and authoritative commentaries for their preparation.

Constitutional Law: "Introduction to the Constitution of India" by D.D. Basu; "Indian Constitutional Law" by M.P. Jain. Jurisprudence: "Jurisprudence & Legal Theory" by V.D. Mahajan. Criminal Law (IPC, CrPC, Evidence): Commentaries by Ratanlal & Dhirajlal; "Textbook on Indian Penal Code" by K.D. Gaur. Civil Law (CPC, Contract, Property): "Code of Civil Procedure" by C.K. Takwani; "Contract & Specific Relief" by Avtar Singh. For Current Legal Developments: Follow journals like SCC and legal news websites.

How to Apply Online

The application process is entirely online. Candidates must follow these steps carefully:

1. Visit the official Supreme Court of India website: www.sci.gov.in.
2. Navigate to the 'Recruitment' section and find the link for "Engagement of Law Clerk-cum-Research Associates".
3. Click on the application link and register by providing your basic details.
4. Fill in the online application form with accurate personal, academic, and contact information.
5. Upload a scanned copy of your recent photograph and signature as per the specified dimensions and size.
6. Proceed to pay the application fee of ₹750/- through the online payment gateway.
7. Before final submission, preview the application form to ensure all details are correct. No modifications can be made after submission.
8. Submit the application and take a printout of the final form and the fee receipt for your records. Note down your Application Number for future reference.

Documents Needed to Apply

During the online application process, candidates will need to upload scanned copies of the following:

1. A recent passport-size photograph.
2. Signature.

Candidates should keep all their academic certificates, ID proof, and other relevant documents ready, as they will be required during the later stages of the selection process (document verification).

Important Links

Action	Link
Official Notification and Scheme	Click Here
Apply Online	Click Here

(FAQs)

Q1: Is this a permanent government job?

No, this is a short-term contractual assignment for the 2026-2027 term only. It does not grant any right to a permanent position in the Supreme Court.

Q2: I am in the 4th year of a 5-year law course. Am I eligible to apply?

No, only students who are in their final year (5th year of a 5-year course or 3rd year of a 3-year course) are eligible to apply.

Q3: Is there any negative marking in the examination?

Yes, there is a negative marking of 0.25 marks for every incorrect answer in the Part-I (MCQ) Test.

Q4: What is the monthly salary for a Law Clerk?

The position offers a consolidated remuneration of ₹1,00,000 per month for the duration of the assignment.