Please introduce yourself to our readers.
Introducing oneself, I believe, is quite a task. Anyone would definitely exaggerate things and would probably (well, definitely) be a bit biased. Reflection upon oneself is not easy. Having said that, I’ll try my best to be fair and marshal the facts as they are.
Hello there, readers!
I’m Vishal Vyas, and I completed my schooling from Saint Xaviers, Jaipur. I then went on to complete my law from Manipal University, Jaipur. I have completed my Master’s in criminology and simultaneously cleared the prestigious Rajasthan Judicial Services Examination in the year 2019.
Then, I was trained for a year at Rajasthan State Judicial Academy, Jodhpur, and I am now currently posted as Civil Judge at a place called Nawalgarh, Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan.
Please tell us about your preparation journey for Judicial Services Examinations. Also, did you take coaching to become Civil Judge in Rajasthan?
The journey of preparation (from aspiring to Judging) was indeed beautiful. The preparation also, to a great extent, teaches an aspirant two basic qualities of a Judge – Discipline & Hard work. Reading those Bare Acts and Judgments day in and day out was nothing short of fun!
To answer the second question, yes, I took coaching at JKILS, Jaipur. It helped me clear my concepts and complete the syllabus in a time-bound fashion. Moreover, it provided me with regular mock tests. However, joining any coaching is not a prerequisite for clearing the examination. It can only facilitate your preparation. In the end, it is your efforts that really count.
You are a Civil Judge in Nawalgarh, Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan. Was Rajasthan your first preference?
Since it’s a state-level examination, one may pick his/her preferable state. I hail from Jaipur, Rajasthan. So yes, the beautiful desert state was my first go-to option.
How many other states have you attempted before Rajasthan?
None.
What motivated you to take up Judiciary as a career option?
To answer this better, let me answer this question first- “What motivated me to choose Law as my education option?”
Growing up, I often used to see clients coming to our place where legal strategies were being made, discussion on drafts, and preparation of arguments. I had no idea what the word “law” means and what relevance it holds in our society. But I just knew that it was my dad’s daily job. I always saw him working so hard as a practicing lawyer, on each and every case to – defend other people, represent them, and become their voice. So, law was something that came naturally to me.
Having said all of that, towards the end of my law college, after exploring all possible career opportunities, Judiciary attracted me the most. My motivating factor for choosing this field is nothing but the sheer nature of this service. ‘The ability to dispense justice’ or ‘To make a meaningful difference in people’s lives‘ were my guiding stars.
Indeed, many aspirants don’t know what to expect when they join the service. We want to know what your day as a judge is like. Can you share your day-to-day schedule with us?
True. I couldn’t agree more. It is super important to check the depth of the water before cliff-jumping. The life of a Judge is like a discussion in itself. It is nothing short of a roller-coaster ride. Every single day in a court of law is a learning experience. I face new challenges every day.
To cut it short, I can’t describe it unless you experience it yourself.
More on this some other day!
Judiciary exams are conducted in three stages. What was your approach? Did you prepare in stages or your focus was always Mains oriented from the beginning?
The exam consists of three different stages. The first stage is a Preliminary examination that tests your skills to choose the best option available (multiple-choice format). The second stage is the Main examination which includes certain sets of questions (both theoretical and analytical). It tests your answer writing skills and ability to decide things, ability to explain things in your words. Last but not least – the Interview which is, broadly, a test of your personality.
In my opinion, each stage requires a different strategy. So, strategize accordingly. Also, don’t try to copy/adapt someone else’s strategy blindly. Remember this – the best strategy, always, is the one that you evolve for yourself!
In terms of the Mains examination, what is the importance of case laws? Are they essential for clearing the exam?
Law is definitely not limited to what you read in those Bare Acts. Reading case laws/judgments is super important! Not only do they explain the law better and the correct position of law but also improve one’s legal vocabulary and judgment writing skills.
Lastly, don’t forget Article 141 of the Indian Constitution: Law Declared by the Supreme Court to be binding on all courts (Stare decisis).
Given the aforesaid discussion, reading judgments (at least landmarks and recent ones) is essential for clearing the exam.
Many aspirants don’t know how to handle interview questions. Nervousness, anxiety, and under-confidence are some of the common hindrances. What is your suggestion for them?
My broad suggestions for the interview:
Firstly, just be yourself. Don’t show them what you are not. Your real personality (which I am sure is beautiful) is what they wish to see.
Secondly, listen carefully and think before you answer.
Thirdly, smile (when it is required). Such a powerful curve. Spreads so much positivity.
Lastly, visualize the interview as an opportunity to learn and engage with some great minds.
Please share some tips for our young minds who want to be a part of the Judiciary.
I honestly do not know about tips and tricks. Trust me – there are none! Just take this as a tip – Ask yourself this question – Why do you want to be a Judge? As someone wise said- if you’ve figured out the ‘WHY’ of doing something, you’ll figure out the ‘HOW’ of doing it any ‘HOW’.
Lastly, three qualities you think are necessary for any aspirant to become a successful Judicial Officer.
To become a successful Judicial officer? That’s a tough one. I am yet to figure this out as it’s a gradual process. And also, I make no claims to great insights on this question. I can share the little that I know about – ‘being successful in what you do’.
If you’ll give your one hundred percent to something, you increase the chances of being ‘successful in what you do’. Whether it be judging, lawyering, academia, or anything for that matter. With that, adios for now!
Ferrying best wishes to all the aspirants.
Did you enjoy reading it? Also check out Interview of Priyambada Lal, Civil Judge, Uttar Pradesh.
Source: Lawctopus
