Delhi Higher Judicial Service Examination 2026: Full Recruitment Guide
Table of Contents
- Vacancy Overview
- About The Recruitment
- Eligibility Criteria
- Examination Structure
- Application Process
- Why This Recruitment Matters
- Final Takeaway
The Delhi High Court has released the Delhi Higher Judicial Service (DHJS) Examination 2026 for direct recruitment to the Delhi Higher Judicial Service. The notification invites online applications for 45 vacancies, including 43 existing vacancies and 2 anticipated vacancies. This is one of the most important judicial recruitment opportunities for experienced advocates in Delhi.[delhihighcourt.nic]
Vacancy Overview
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Conducting Body | High Court of Delhi |
| Examination | Delhi Higher Judicial Service Examination 2026 |
| Total Vacancies | 45 |
| Vacancy Split | 43 existing + 2 anticipated |
| Mode of Application | Online |
| Selection Stages | Preliminary, Mains, Viva-Voce |
About The Recruitment
The DHJS recruitment is a direct entry examination for appointment to the Higher Judicial Service in Delhi. It is intended for experienced advocates who want to enter the judicial service at a senior level. The process involves three successive stages: a preliminary exam, a mains written exam, and viva-voce.
The pay scale for members of the Delhi Higher Judicial Service is in Level 13A of the 7th CPC matrix. This reflects the seniority and responsibility attached to the post.
Eligibility Criteria
The official rules for DHJS direct recruitment require the following:
- The candidate must be a citizen of India.
- The candidate must have been continuously practising as an advocate for not less than seven years as on the last date for receipt of applications.
- The candidate must have attained the age of 35 years and must not have attained the age of 45 years on the specified date in the advertisement.
These eligibility conditions mean the examination is open only to seasoned advocates with substantial courtroom experience.
Examination Structure
The DHJS selection process is divided into three stages:
- Preliminary Examination
This is an objective-type screening test and includes 25% negative marking. - Mains Examination
This is a written examination used to shortlist candidates for the viva-voce. - Viva-Voce
Candidates who qualify the mains examination are called for interview.
Application Process
The candidates must apply online only through the official Delhi High Court website. The application must be submitted in the prescribed format within the schedule given in the notification. The earlier DHJS rules page also shows that the Delhi High Court uses a formal online application process with prescribed fee and timeline.
Why This Recruitment Matters
The Delhi Higher Judicial Service Examination is a prestigious gateway into the judicial service for experienced lawyers. Since the selection process includes both written tests and interview, the recruitment assesses not only legal knowledge but also practical judgment and judicial aptitude.
For advocates seeking a career on the bench, this is one of the most significant opportunities in the Delhi judicial system.
Final Takeaway
The Delhi Higher Judicial Service Examination 2026 is a high-value judicial recruitment for experienced advocates with at least seven years of practice and the required age eligibility. With 45 vacancies and a three-stage selection process, eligible candidates should review the official notification carefully and prepare for the preliminary exam, mains, and viva-voce.
