Supreme Court of India Law Clerk Recruitment 2026: The Supreme Court of India has announced an exciting opportunity for law graduates and students to serve as Law Clerk-cum-Research Associates on a contractual basis. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about this prestigious recruitment drive for the 2026-2027 term.
Supreme Court of India Law Clerk Recruitment 2026: The Supreme Court of India has released an official notification for the engagement of Law Clerk-cum-Research Associates on a short-term contractual basis for the 2026–2027 assignment year. This recruitment is an excellent opportunity for fresh law graduates and final-year law students to work closely with Hon’ble Judges of the Supreme Court and gain unmatched legal exposure.
Online applications are invited to prepare a panel of approximately 90 candidates, offering a monthly consolidated remuneration of ₹1,00,000/-.
Supreme Court of India Law Clerk Recruitment 2026 Overview and Summary
This is a full-time contractual position that offers young legal professionals an invaluable opportunity to gain experience at India’s apex court. The position comes with an attractive monthly remuneration and exposure to high-level judicial work.
Key Highlights:
- Advertisement Number: F.21(LC)/2026-SC(RC)
- Release Date: January 20, 2026
- Number of Positions: Approximately 90
- Position: Law Clerk-cum-Research Associate
- Employment Type: Short-term contractual (full-time)
- Assignment Term: 2026-2027
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | Supreme Court of India |
| Post Name | Law Clerk-cum-Research Associate |
| Total Vacancies | Approx. 90 |
| Engagement Type | Contractual (Full-time) |
| Assignment Term | 2026–2027 |
| Salary | ₹1,00,000/- per month (consolidated) |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Exam Date | 07 March 2026 |
| Official Website | www.sci.gov.in |
Detailed Position Description
Nature of Assignment
The Law Clerk-cum-Research Associate position is a full-time contractual assignment that does not confer any right to claim regular appointment or continuance in service at the Supreme Court of India. The Registry reserves the right to terminate the engagement at any point with prescribed notice.
Important Restrictions and Conditions
Selected candidates must understand the following critical conditions:
- Full-Time Commitment: This is an exclusive assignment requiring dedication during the entire term
- No Other Assignments: Law Clerks cannot accept any other assignment during their tenure
- Practice Restriction: Selected candidates shall not practice as an Advocate in any Court of Law during their assignment term
- Work Hours: Candidates must be prepared to work even at odd hours and on holidays as per work exigency
- Posting Flexibility: The Registry reserves the right to post Law Clerks at any location within the Registry/Courts/Chambers/Residential Office of the Hon’ble Chief Justice of India/Hon’ble Judges
Roles and Responsibilities
Law Clerks will be engaged in:
- Legal research and analysis on complex constitutional and legal matters
- Preparation of research notes and case summaries
- Utilizing legal databases and search engines (e-SCR, Manupatra, SCC Online, LexisNexis, Westlaw, etc.)
- Assisting in various judicial and administrative functions as assigned
Supreme Court of India Law Clerk Recruitment 2026 Vacancy Details
-
Tentative number of posts: Approximately 90
-
Final number may vary based on administrative requirements and directions of the Hon’ble Chief Justice of India.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Positions | Approximately 90 |
| Position Name | Law Clerk-cum-Research Associate |
| Employment Nature | Contractual (Short-term) |
| Assignment Duration | 2026-2027 |
| Organization | Supreme Court of India |
| Selection Basis | Merit-based through competitive examination and interview |
- Download Supreme Court of India Law Clerk Recruitment 2026 Notification
Supreme Court of India Law Clerk Recruitment 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualifications Required
Candidates must meet the following essential qualifications:
For Graduates:
- Must possess a Bachelor Degree in Law (including Integrated Degree Course in Law)
- The degree must be from any School/College/University/Institution established by law in India
- The institution must be recognized by the Bar Council of India for enrollment as an Advocate
- Important: Candidates must have completed their law degree before taking up the assignment
For Current Students:
- Students in the fifth year of the Five-Year Integrated Law Course are eligible to apply
- Students in the third year of the Three-Year Law Course (after graduation in any stream) are eligible to apply
- Such candidates must furnish proof of acquiring Law qualification before taking up the assignment as Law Clerk-cum-Research Associate
Essential Skills and Knowledge
Candidates must possess:
- Research and Analytical Skills: Ability to conduct thorough legal research and analyze complex legal issues
- Writing Abilities: Strong legal writing and drafting skills
- Computer Knowledge: Proficiency in computer operations
- Legal Database Expertise: Knowledge of retrieving information from various search engines and legal databases including:
- e-SCR (electronic Supreme Court Reports)
- Manupatra
- SCC Online
- LexisNexis
- Westlaw
- Other relevant legal research platforms
Supreme Court of India Law Clerk Recruitment 2026 Age Limit
The age criteria for this recruitment are strictly defined:
- Minimum Age: 20 years
- Maximum Age: 32 years
- Crucial Date: Age will be calculated as on February 7, 2026
Note: Candidates must not be below 20 years and must not be above 32 years on the specified date. There is no mention of age relaxation in the advertisement, so candidates should ensure they fall within this age bracket.
Supreme Court of India Law Clerk Recruitment 2026 Application and Examination Fee
Fee Structure
| Category | Amount | Payment Mode |
|---|---|---|
| Application/Test Fee | ₹750/- | Online only |
| Bank Charges | As applicable | Included in online payment |
| Objection Fee (for answer key challenges) | ₹100/- per objection | Online only |
Important Points About Fees
- Non-Refundable: The application fee of ₹750/- is non-refundable under any circumstances
- Online Payment Only: Fee must be paid through the Payment Gateway provided by UCO Bank
- No Other Mode Accepted: Fees will not be accepted in any other form (cash, cheque, demand draft, etc.)
- Objection Fee Refund: The ₹100/- objection fee will be refunded only if the objection is found to be valid
Supreme Court of India Law Clerk Recruitment 2026 Salary and Remuneration Details
Monthly Remuneration: ₹1,00,000/- (One Lakh Rupees per month)
Remuneration Structure
- Nature: Consolidated remuneration (all-inclusive)
- Payment Frequency: Monthly
- Duration: For the entire assignment term 2026-2027
Additional Benefits and Allowances
Important Note: The advertisement specifies “consolidated remuneration,” which typically means this is an all-inclusive amount. The document does not mention additional allowances such as:
- House Rent Allowance (HRA)
- Dearness Allowance (DA)
- Travel Allowance (TA/DA)
Specific Mention: No TA/DA shall be paid to candidates for appearing in the Written Test.
Supreme Court of India Law Clerk Recruitment 2026 Selection Process
The selection process is comprehensive and conducted in three distinct phases to assess different competencies:
Phase I: Multiple Choice Based Questions (MCQ)
Objective: Testing candidates’ ability to understand and apply the law, and comprehension skills
Format:
- Online mode examination
- Multiple choice questions
- Minimum Qualifying Marks: 60%
- Negative Marking: 0.25 marks deducted for each incorrect answer
Important: In case a large number of candidates qualify Part-I Test by securing minimum qualifying marks, the system will follow a merit-based shortlisting for Part-II evaluation (1:10 ratio against tentative vacancies).
Phase II: Subjective Written Test
Objective: Assessing writing and analytical skills
Format:
- Question paper will be visible on computer screen
- Answers must be written in pen-paper mode (offline writing)
- Covers legal writing, analysis, and reasoning abilities
Evaluation Criteria: Only the answer sheets of candidates shortlisted from Part-I (in 1:10 ratio if required) will be evaluated.
Phase III: Interview
Objective: Final assessment of candidate’s suitability, personality, and communication skills
Shortlisting: Candidates who successfully qualify both Part-I and Part-II Tests will be called for interview in the ratio of 1:3 against the number of tentative vacancies.
Answer Key Challenge Process
- Model Answer Keys Upload: March 8, 2026
- Objection Period: Available till 11:59 PM on March 9, 2026
- Objection Fee: ₹100/- per objection
- Mode: Online objections only (letters, emails, or applications will not be entertained)
- Refund Policy: Fee refunded only if objection is found valid
Supreme Court of India Law Clerk Recruitment 2026 Examination Details
Date of Examination
Written Tests: March 7, 2026
Schedule:
- Part-I Test: First session (online mode)
- Break: Provided between tests
- Part-II Test: Second session (pen-paper mode for answers)
Supreme Court of India Law Clerk Recruitment 2026 How to Apply
Application Process – Step by Step
Step 1: Visit Official Website
- Go to the Supreme Court of India website: www.sci.gov.in
- Navigate to the Judicial Clerkship section: https://www.sci.gov.in/judicial-clerkship/
Step 2: Online Registration
- Click on the application link (available from January 20, 2026)
- Fill in all required personal, educational, and contact details
- Ensure all information is accurate as modifications are not allowed after submission
Step 3: Upload Documents
- Upload scanned copy of recent photograph (as per specifications)
- Upload scanned copy of signature (as per specifications)
- Follow the instructions displayed on the upload interface carefully
Step 4: Preview Application
- Review all entered information thoroughly
- Check for any errors or omissions
- Remember: Application once submitted cannot be withdrawn or modified
Step 5: Fee Payment
- Pay ₹750/- plus applicable bank charges
- Payment through UCO Bank Payment Gateway only
- Keep payment confirmation for records
Step 6: Final Submission
- Submit the application form
- Note down the Application Number generated
- Take a printout of the filled application for your records
Supreme Court of India Law Clerk Recruitment 2026 Important Application Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Advertisement Release | January 20, 2026 |
| Online Registration Starts | January 20, 2026 |
| Last Date for Online Applications | February 7, 2026 |
| Written Test Date | March 7, 2026 |
| Answer Key Upload | March 8, 2026 |
| Objection Period Ends | March 9, 2026 (11:59 PM) |
Supreme Court of India Law Clerk Recruitment 2026 Documents Required
While the advertisement doesn’t provide an exhaustive list, candidates should keep the following ready:
- Recent Photograph: Scanned copy as per specifications
- Signature: Scanned copy as per specifications
- Educational Certificates: Law degree or proof of ongoing law course
- Identity Proof: Valid government-issued ID
- Age Proof: Birth certificate or equivalent
- Disability Certificate: If applicable (for scribe facility)
Supreme Court of India Law Clerk Recruitment 2026 Certificate Requirements
Annexure-I: For candidates with physical limitation hampering writing/typing capabilities
- Must be certified by Chief Medical Officer/Civil Surgeon/Medical Superintendent of a Government healthcare institution
- Certificate should be given by a specialist of the relevant stream/disability
Annexure-IA: For persons with specified disability covered under Section 2(s) of the RPwD Act, 2016 but not covered under Section 2(r) (persons having less than 40% disability with difficulty in writing)
- Requires certification from multiple medical authorities
- Valid for maximum period of six months or as certified
No Attendant Allowed: Only the scribe for eligible candidates will be allowed in the examination hall; no other attendant is permitted.
Supreme Court of India Law Clerk Recruitment 2026 Important Instructions and Guidelines
General Instructions
- Verification of Eligibility: Candidates are admitted to tests based on information provided; ensure you fulfill all eligibility conditions before applying
- False Information: Candidature will be cancelled if false information is detected; no correspondence will be entertained
- Admit Card: Issuance of Admit Card does NOT confer any right for selection
- Accuracy of Information: Ensure all particulars are correct before final submission
- No Modification: Application once submitted cannot be withdrawn or modified
- Multiple Applications: If more than one application is submitted, only the last submitted application will be entertained
- Application Rejection: Non-compliant applications will be summarily rejected
Important Points to Remember
- Application Number: Retain carefully for generating admit card and future correspondence
- Communication: Information sent to registered email ID and mobile number is deemed received
- Fee Non-Refundable: Under no circumstances will the fee be refunded
- Unfair Means: Any attempt to obtain support through unfair means will result in disqualification and legal action
- Helpline: Technical or other queries can be addressed through helpline numbers on the website
Document Verification
Final engagement is subject to:
- Fulfilling eligibility conditions
- Verification of academic certificates
- Completion of other required formalities
Supreme Court of India Law Clerk Recruitment 2026 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, students in the fifth year of Five-Year Integrated Law Course or third year of Three-Year Law Course are eligible to apply. However, you must furnish proof of acquiring the law qualification before taking up the assignment.
Q2: Is this a permanent position?
No, this is a purely contractual assignment for the term 2026-2027. It does not confer any right to claim regular appointment or continuance in service.
Q3: Can I practice as an advocate during this assignment?
No, Law Clerks cannot practice as Advocates in any Court of Law during their assignment term.
Q4: What is the negative marking scheme?
There is a negative marking of 0.25 marks for each incorrect answer in Part-I (MCQ) test.
Q5: Can I modify my application after submission?
No, applications once submitted cannot be withdrawn or modified. Ensure all information is correct before final submission.
Q6: Will I receive TA/DA for appearing in the written test?
No, candidates will not receive any TA/DA for appearing in the written test.
Q7: In which cities will the examination be conducted?
The examination will be conducted in 23 cities across India, including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, and 18 other cities.
Q8: Is the application fee refundable?
No, the application fee of ₹750/- is non-refundable under any circumstances.
Q9: How do I challenge the answer key?
You can submit online objections between March 8-9, 2026, by paying ₹100/- per objection. The fee is refundable only if your objection is found valid.
Q10: What happens if I submit multiple applications?
Only the last submitted application will be entertained by the Registry. No previous applications will be considered.
Q11: Can PwD candidates avail scribe facility?
Yes, PwD candidates can avail scribe facility by filling the required proforma and producing necessary certificates. The scribe cannot be a law graduate or pursuing law.
Q12: What databases should I be familiar with?
Candidates should have knowledge of legal databases including e-SCR, Manupatra, SCC Online, LexisNexis, Westlaw, and other legal research platforms.
Q13: Will all qualifying candidates be called for interview?
No, only candidates qualifying both Part-I and Part-II tests will be called for interview in the ratio of 1:3 against tentative vacancies.
Q14: What is the format of Part-II examination?
Questions will be visible on the computer screen, but answers must be written in pen-paper mode.
Q15: Where can I get more information about the scheme?
The complete “Scheme of Engaging Law Clerk-cum-Research Associates on Short-Term Contractual Assignment in the Supreme Court of India-January 2024, as amended” is available on www.sci.gov.in.
Conclusion
The Law Clerk-cum-Research Associate position at the Supreme Court of India offers an exceptional opportunity for young legal professionals to gain invaluable experience at India’s apex judicial institution. With an attractive monthly remuneration of ₹1,00,000/- and exposure to high-level judicial work, this position serves as an excellent stepping stone for a legal career.
Interested and eligible candidates should carefully review all eligibility criteria, prepare thoroughly for the three-phase selection process, and ensure timely submission of their online applications between January 20 and February 7, 2026.
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