The UP Judiciary Exam, also known as UP PCS J, is your gateway to a prestigious career in the judicial services of the state. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the exam – from the selection process and syllabus to preparation tips – to help you crack one of the most competitive law exams in India.
What is the UP Judiciary Exam?
The Uttar Pradesh Judicial Service Civil Judge (Junior Division) Examination, commonly referred to as UP PCS J, is conducted by the Uttar Pradesh Public Service Commission (UPPSC). This exam is held to recruit candidates for the post of Civil Judge (Junior Division) in the state judiciary.
It is an excellent opportunity for law graduates who aspire to serve in the judicial system and make a meaningful impact in public service.
UP PCS J Exam Pattern 2025–2026
The exam is conducted in three phases:
- Preliminary Examination – Objective type (MCQs)
- Mains Examination – Descriptive type (Written)
- Interview – Personal assessment
Each stage is crucial and tests a candidate’s legal knowledge, analytical ability, language proficiency, and personality traits.
Prelims Exam Pattern
The Preliminary exam is conducted offline and consists of two papers:
| Paper | Subject | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper I | General Knowledge | 150 | 2 Hours |
| Paper II | Law | 300 | 2 Hours |
| Total | 450 |
- Negative Marking: 0.33 marks deducted for each incorrect answer.
- Purpose: This is a screening test to shortlist candidates for the Mains.
Mains Exam Pattern
Candidates who qualify in Prelims move on to the Mains, which is a subjective, written examination.
| Paper | Subject | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper I | General Knowledge | 200 | 3 Hours |
| Paper II | English Language | 100 | 3 Hours |
| Paper III | Hindi Language | 100 | 3 Hours |
| Paper IV | Law I (Substantive Law) | 200 | 3 Hours |
| Paper V | Law II (Procedure and Evidence) | 200 | 3 Hours |
| Paper VI | Law III (Penal, Revenue & Local Laws) | 200 | 3 Hours |
| Total | 1000 |
Interview/Personality Test
| Stage | Marks |
|---|---|
| Interview | 100 |
Candidates who qualify the Mains exam are called for a personal interview, where their legal aptitude, communication skills, confidence, and personality are evaluated.
UP Judiciary Syllabus 2025
Understanding the detailed syllabus is crucial for targeted preparation. Here’s the breakdown of topics for each stage:
Prelims Syllabus
| Paper | Subject | Topics Covered |
|---|---|---|
| Paper I | General Knowledge | Indian History, Culture, Polity, Economy, Geography, Science & Technology, International Affairs, Current Events |
| Paper II | Law | Jurisprudence, Indian Constitution, Transfer of Property Act, Contract Act, IPC, CrPC, CPC, Evidence Act, International Organizations |
Mains Syllabus
| Paper | Subject | Topics Covered |
|---|---|---|
| Paper I | General Knowledge | History, Culture, Economy, Women & Child Protection Laws, Disabled Rights, Polity, International Affairs |
| Paper II | English Language | Essay, Precis Writing, Translation (Hindi to English) |
| Paper III | Hindi Language | Essay, Precis Writing, Translation (English to Hindi) |
| Paper IV | Law I | Contract Act, Partnership Act, TPA, Specific Relief, Hindu & Muslim Law, Equity, Constitutional Law |
| Paper V | Law II | CPC, CrPC, Evidence Act, Pleadings, Framing of Issues & Charges |
| Paper VI | Law III | Local & Revenue Laws: U.P. Land Reforms Act, U.P. Municipalities Act, Tenancy Act, Panchayat Raj Act, Consolidation Act |
Interview Syllabus
In this stage, the focus is on evaluating:
- Legal understanding
- General awareness
- Personality traits
- Confidence and communication
- Suitability for judicial responsibility
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