By Rishi Pal | January 21, 2026
Supreme Court Law Clerk Recruitment 2026: For many young law graduates in India, the dream of working in the highest court of the land feels both inspiring and within reach. The Supreme Court of India has just released its notification for engaging Law Clerk-cum-Research Associates on a short-term contractual basis for the 2026-2027 term, offering around 90 positions with a handsome consolidated remuneration of Rs 1,00,000 per month. This prestigious opportunity allows freshers and early-career lawyers to assist judges directly, gain invaluable exposure to landmark cases, and build a strong foundation for future legal careers. With applications open only until February 7, 2026, aspiring candidates need to act quickly while preparing thoroughly for the multi-stage selection process.
Overview
The Supreme Court regularly engages Law Clerk-cum-Research Associates to support its judges with legal research, case analysis, and drafting assistance. According to the official notification released on the Supreme Court website (sci.gov.in) on January 20, 2026, a panel of approximately 90 candidates will be prepared for the 2026-2027 assignment term.
This recruitment stands out among government job vacancies because it is purely contractual and merit-based, with no provisions for reservations mentioned in the advertisement. It attracts thousands of applications each year from top law schools like NLSIU Bengaluru, NLU Delhi, and NALSAR Hyderabad, as well as graduates from other recognised institutions. Reputable sources such as LiveLaw and Hindustan Times have highlighted the role’s appeal for building networks and enhancing resumes for judiciary exams, corporate law firms, or litigation practice.
The assignment typically lasts one year, with possible extensions at the court’s discretion, and requires full-time commitment without allowing private practice.
Important Dates
Here is a clear timeline based on the official advertisement:
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Online registration starts | January 20, 2026 |
| Last date for online application | February 7, 2026 |
| Written examination (Part I & II) | March 7, 2026 |
| Release of model answer key | March 8, 2026 |
| Last date for objections | March 9, 2026 (till 11:59 PM) |
| Interview dates | To be notified later |
Candidates should bookmark the official portal and check regularly for admit card releases and centre allocations. The written test will be held across major cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad, and others.
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Eligibility Criteria
The Supreme Court maintains strict yet accessible eligibility standards to ensure quality research support. As per the detailed notification available on sci.gov.in:
- Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s Degree in Law (three-year LLB or five-year integrated course) from an institution recognised by the Bar Council of India.
- Final-year students in the fifth year of integrated courses or third year of three-year LLB are eligible to apply, provided they submit proof of degree completion before joining the assignment.
- Age should be between 20 and 32 years as on February 7, 2026. No relaxations are specified in the current advertisement.
- Strong research and writing skills, along with working knowledge of computers and legal databases like SCC Online, Manupatra, or e-SCR, are essential.
No prior work experience is required, making this an excellent entry point for fresh graduates. However, candidates already in employment must resign before joining.
Application Process
Applying is completely online, with no provision for offline submissions. Follow these steps carefully to avoid rejection:
- Visit the official Supreme Court website at sci.gov.in.
- Go to the ‘Recruitments’ section and click on the Law Clerk-cum-Research Associates 2026-2027 notification.
- Register by providing basic details to generate login credentials.
- Log in and fill the application form accurately, including educational qualifications and personal information.
- Upload scanned copies of required documents (photograph, signature, degree certificates if available).
- Pay the application fee of Rs 750 (plus bank charges) through the UCO Bank payment gateway.
- Submit the form and take a printout for records.
Download the official detailed advertisement PDF here: Direct link to notification.
Common rejection reasons include incomplete forms, incorrect uploads, or fee payment failures, so double-check everything before final submission.
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Selection Process and Exam Pattern
The selection comprises three rigorous stages designed to test legal knowledge, analytical ability, and personality:
Part I: Objective Written Test
- Computer-based multiple-choice questions.
- Focuses on understanding and application of law, along with comprehension skills.
- Qualifying in nature; marks may be used for shortlisting.
Part II: Subjective Written Test
- Pen-and-paper mode.
- Assesses writing skills, analytical thinking, and ability to draft legal opinions or summaries.
Part III: Interview
- Personal interaction with a committee to evaluate clarity of thought, research aptitude, and suitability for assisting judges.
The written tests are scheduled for March 7, 2026. Candidates can raise objections to the model answer key for a fee of Rs 100 per question (refundable if upheld). Final selection depends on combined performance, with emphasis on interview scores.
Remuneration and Benefits
Selected Law Clerks receive a consolidated monthly remuneration of Rs 1,00,000, as stated in the official scheme amended in January 2024. There are no additional allowances mentioned, but the role offers immense non-monetary benefits like exposure to constitutional matters, interaction with senior advocates, and a prestigious credential valued in judiciary exams or top law firms.
The assignment demands working odd hours or holidays when required, but many former clerks describe it as a transformative experience.
Preparation Tips
With limited time after applications close, structured preparation is key. Drawing from patterns observed in previous cycles and advice shared by former clerks in outlets like LiveLaw:
- Build Core Legal Knowledge: Focus on substantive laws (Constitution, IPC, CrPC, CPC, Evidence Act, Contract, Tort) and landmark Supreme Court judgments from the past 2-3 years.
- Practice MCQs: Use standard books like Universal’s Multiple Choice Questions or online platforms for law entrance-style tests.
- Hone Writing Skills: Regularly practice drafting case summaries, legal opinions, or notes on recent judgments. Read Supreme Court reports daily.
- Master Research Tools: Familiarise yourself with e-SCR, SCC Online, and other databases for quick case lookups.
- Mock Interviews: Discuss current legal issues with mentors or peers to improve articulation.
Toppers often recommend reading The Hindu’s legal section and following SC orders on the official website. Consistency over cramming works best here.
FAQs: Supreme Court Law Clerk Recruitment 2026
1. Is there any reservation for SC/ST/OBC/EWS categories?
No reservations are mentioned in the 2026-2027 notification; selection is purely merit-based.
2. Can final-year law students apply?
Yes, provided they obtain the degree before joining the assignment.
3. What is the application fee?
Rs 750 plus bank charges, non-refundable.
4. Will there be negative marking in the objective test?
The notification does not specify; check updated guidelines on admit cards.
5. How many vacancies are there exactly?
A panel for approximately 90 engagements will be prepared.
6. Can I practice law during the assignment?
No, selected candidates must devote full time and cannot undertake other professional work.
7. Are there age relaxations?
None specified in the current advertisement.
8. Where can I download previous years’ question papers?
Official papers are not released, but similar patterns can be practised from judicial service exam resources.
Conclusion
The Supreme Court Law Clerk Recruitment 2026 presents a golden opportunity for dedicated law graduates to contribute to justice delivery at the apex level while gaining unparalleled professional growth. With applications closing soon on February 7, start by visiting sci.gov.in today to register and download the full notification. Focused preparation on core laws, writing practice, and staying updated with court developments can make all the difference. Thousands apply, but those who prepare systematically often secure this coveted role. Take the first step now; your journey towards a rewarding legal career could begin right here. Which part of the preparation excites you most? Share your thoughts and good luck!
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