The Supreme Court of India has announced recruitment for 90 Law Clerk-cum-Research Associate posts for 2025. This is an exceptional opportunity for law graduates and final-year students to gain invaluable experience in India’s apex judicial institution. Understanding the syllabus and exam pattern is crucial for success. This guide offers a comprehensive overview of the recruitment process, syllabus, exam structure, and preparation strategies.
Table of Contents
Process Overview
Stage
Description
Applicable Posts
Subjective Written Examination+MCQ
CBT covers law aptitude, comprehension, and analytical writing skills
All applicants
Interview
Assessment of verbal communication, analytical thinking, and suitability
Shortlisted candidates
Supreme Court Selection Process
Selection Stages
Part I: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
Objective-based test assessing comprehension, legal knowledge, and analytical ability.
Part II: Subjective Written Examination
Detailed answers to evaluate writing, legal analysis, and articulation skills.
Interview
Interaction with the selection committee to assess communication, knowledge, and personality.
Complete Exam Pattern
Part I: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
Section
Questions
Marks
Duration
Legal Aptitude
50
50
Reading Comprehension
20
20
General Knowledge
20
20
Computer Awareness
10
10
Total
100
100
2.5 hrs
Part II: Subjective Written Examination
Section
Marks
Word Limit
Duration
Case Synopsis
100
500-750
Legal Analysis
100
550-750
General Studies
100
450-600
Total
300
3.5 hrs
Negative Marking: 1/4th mark deducted for every incorrect answer in Part I.
Syllabus for Law Clerk-cum-Research Associate 2025
Part I: Multiple-Choice Questions
Legal Aptitude
Subtopics
Examples
Constitutional Law
Analyze the concept of Fundamental Rights.
Indian Penal Code
Discuss the key provisions of Section 302 (Murder).
Contract Law
Evaluate the elements of a valid contract.
Civil Law
Interpret provisions related to property transfer.
Criminal Law
Analyze the concept of criminal intent under IPC.
Legal Maxims
Explain the meaning of Nemo Judex in causa sua.
Important Judgments
Discuss the significance of Kesavananda Bharati vs. the State of Kerala.
Reading Comprehension
Subtopics
Examples
Passage Comprehension
Infer the tone of the author in a legal article.
Critical Reasoning
Identify logical flaws in an argument.
Inferential Questions
Determine the implications of a legal opinion presented.
General Knowledge
Subtopics
Examples
Current Affairs
Discuss recent amendments to the Constitution of India.
Major Supreme Court Judgments
Analyze the impact of the Sabarimala Temple judgment.
Indian Polity
Explain the structure of the Indian Parliament.
International Legal Updates
Discuss the role of the ICJ in recent global disputes.
Computer Awareness
Subtopics
Examples
MS Office
Shortcut keys for editing in MS Word.
Legal Research Tools
Features of SCC Online and Manupatra.
Basic IT Terminologies
Define terms like IP address and DNS.
Part II: Subjective Written Examination
Case Synopsis
Subtopics
Examples
Word Limit
Case Analysis
Summarize the facts and legal issues of a landmark judgment.
500-750
Application of Legal Principles
Apply doctrines like res judicata to hypothetical cases.
500-600
Legal Analysis
Subtopics
Examples
Word Limit
Constitutional Law
Analyze the implications of the Basic Structure Doctrine.
550-750
Civil Law
Evaluate disputes over property inheritance.
550-750
Criminal Law
Discuss the concept of self-defense under IPC.
550-750
Administrative Law
Examine the principles of natural justice.
550-750
General Studies
Subtopics
Examples
Word Limit
Indian Polity
Write essays on topics like federalism in India.
450-600
Current Affairs
Analyze the impact of recent legislative changes on society.
450-600
Social Issues
Discuss the role of the judiciary in combating gender discrimination.
450-600
Examples of Key Subtopics in Each Section
Legal Aptitude: “Explain the Doctrine of Separation of Powers.”
Reading Comprehension: “Infer the author’s stance from a provided passage.”
General Knowledge: “Who is the current Chief Justice of India?”
Computer Awareness: “What is the shortcut for saving a document in MS Word?”
Study Tips
Concept Clarity: Focus on fundamental legal concepts and judgments.
Mock Tests: Practice regularly with sample papers to improve speed and accuracy.
Current Affairs: Stay updated on legal developments and judgments.
Writing Practice: Hone your legal drafting and essay-writing skills.
Interview Guidelines
Be Confident: Speak clearly and concisely.
Know Your Basics: Be prepared for questions on legal principles and judgments.
Stay Updated: Mention recent legal developments during discussions.
Recommended Books and Resources
Topic
Recommended Books
Legal Aptitude
“Universal’s Guide to CLAT & LLB Entrance Exam” by Manish Arora
Reading Comprehension
“High School English Grammar and Composition” by Wren & Martin
General Knowledge
“India 2025” by Publications Division
Computer Awareness
Online tutorials and guides
Strategic Preparation Plan
Time Slot
Activity
Focus Area
Morning (7-9 AM)
Practice MCQs
Legal Aptitude
Afternoon (2-4 PM)
Mock Test
Exam Pattern Familiarity
Evening (6-8 PM)
Essay Writing & Current Affairs
Writing Skills
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Skipping Writing Practice: Writing clarity is vital for subjective sections.
Overlooking Computer Skills: Familiarity with legal research tools is essential.
Ignoring Updates: Regularly follow legal news and updates.
The Supreme Court Law Clerk-cum-Research Associate recruitment is a golden opportunity for law graduates to work with India’s highest judiciary. With structured preparation and determination, success is within reach. Start your preparation early and aim for excellence!
FAQs
What are the eligibility criteria for this recruitment?
Law graduates or final-year law students aged between 20 and 32 as of February 7, 2025.
What is the application fee?
₹500/- plus bank charges.
Is there a negative marking?
Yes, the 1/4th mark will be deducted for incorrect answers in Part I.