This article is written by Lavi Singh. The article seeks to elucidate the detailed strategy to be followed for the Haryana Judicial Preliminary Examination along with the reference materials and common mistakes which the candidates make while attempting the exam.
Introduction
The Haryana Judicial Services Examination is one of the most highly esteemed and competitive selection processes for judicial officers in the Country.
The judicial services examination for the state of Haryana conducted by the High Court of Punjab and Haryana is officially known as “Haryana Civil Service Judicial Examination/ HCS (Judicial)”. This Civil Services Judicial Examination is held in pursuance of the Punjab Civil Services (Judicial Branch) Rules, l951 under the aegis of the Haryana Public Service Commission.
In this exam, the selected candidates are recruited at the lower judiciary level who work as Civil Judge (Junior Division) or Judicial Magistrate. They are not only given the task of upholding justice by deciding the matters before them but are also allotted various administrative duties for the proper functioning of the entire judicial system.
Additionally, the job provides a dignified post with ample benefits and perks, for instance, all the Judges irrespective of their seniority are being provided with a separate security staff in the State. Therefore, it is a dream for all judicial aspirants to crack this exam.
In this article, the focus is made on the preliminary examination with special reference to the exam pattern, the importance of analysis of past year papers and the strategy to be followed and other related issues with reference to the Haryana Judiciary Preliminary Examination.
Haryana Judicial Services Examination : an overview
The Haryana Civil Service (Judicial Branch) recruits Civil Judges through the Haryana Judicial Services Exam (HJS), which is held every year by the Punjab and Haryana High Court. The exam is held in three stages, namely; the preliminary stage, the mains stage, and the viva voice (or interview). The candidate has to clear the exams in the aforesaid order to get recruited for the post of Civil Judge.
Let’s have a look at some important details like the pattern, eligibility criteria, pay scale, vacancies, etc. pertaining to the Haryana Judicial Services Examination.
The pattern of the exam
The exam is conducted in three phases, i.e.,
- Preliminary,
- Mains and
- Interview or viva-voice.
In these aforementioned stages, the evaluation is done for the analytical, legal and reasoning aptitude and skills of the candidates so as to see whether they are fit for the post and whether they will effortlessly justify the roles allotted to them or not.
It decides whether a candidate has an in-depth understanding of the law which he/ she is going to interpret and apply.
Vacancies in 2024
The Selection Committee of the Haryana Public Service Commission has issued notification for the Haryana Civil Services (Judicial Branch) Examination 2023-24 via advertisement no.1/2024 on 01.01.2024 for 174 posts (129 actual vacancies and 45 anticipated vacancies) for the post of Civil Judge (Junior Division).
The current vacancies are bifurcated into the following category wise posts:
| Categories | No.of Posts |
| General/ Unreserved | 77 |
| Scheduled Castes of Haryana | 30 |
| Backward Classes-A of Haryana | 11 |
| Backward Classes-B of Haryana | 01 |
| Economically Weaker Sections of Haryana | 10 |
| Total | 129 |
In the above categories, further seats are reserved for the following:
- Ex-Servicemen (General/Unreserved) of Haryana: 04
- Ex-Servicemen (Scheduled Castes) of Haryana: 01
- Ex-Servicemen (Backward Class-A) of Haryana: 01
- Persons with Benchmark Disabilities belonging to:
- Visually Handicapped: 03
- Hearing Handicapped: 03
- Ortho Handicapped: 01
- Multiple Disability: 02
The anticipated vacancies are bifurcated into the following category wise posts:
| Categories | No.of Posts |
| General/ Unreserved | 24 |
| Scheduled Castes of Haryana | 09 |
| Backward Classes-A of Haryana | 06 |
| Backward Classes-B of Haryana | 02 |
| Economically Weaker Sections of Haryana | 04 |
| Total | 45 |
In the above categories, further seats are reserved for the following:
- Ex-Servicemen (General/Unreserved) of Haryana: 01
- Persons with Benchmark Disabilities belonging to:
- Ortho Handicapped: 01
- Multiple Disability: 01
Application form
The candidates shall visit the website http://hpsc.gov.in for online application of the form. It is Please note that the commission does not accept forms in any other mode.
Things to do before filling out the application form
- Read the notification carefully and check your eligibility criteria, category and reservation.
- Go through the detailed instructions provided on the abovementioned website for filling up the form.
- The candidate is required to have a mobile number and an email address, through which the registration process can be done. It is to be noted that this mobile number and email address are used by the Commission for communications throughout the whole process of the examination.
- Arrange the following required documents in one place:
- Marksheets and certificates of 10th and 12th.
- Marksheet and degree of graduation.
- Marksheets of all the 10/6 semesters of B.A.LL.B./ LL.B.
- Degree of B.A.LL.B./ LL.B
- Marksheets and degree of LL.M. (where applicable)
- Domicile certificate
- Category certificate. (where applicable)
- Disability certificate. (where applicable)
- No objection certificate in case of working candidates.
- Signature and passport-size photograph (preferably the most recent one) in the required size as given in the instructions.
- Then fill in each required detail very diligently.
- The choice of examination Centre should be made very diligently as the Commission does not entertain any future request for the change of the Centre.
Application fee
Following is the application fee payable by the candidate in any of the online payment modes (net banking, credit card, debit card, UPI):
| Categories | Fee (₹) |
| Male candidates of General and all reserved categories of other StatesMale candidates of the General category including Dependent Son of Ex-Servicemen of Haryana (DESM) | 1000/- |
| Female candidates of the General category including Female Dependent of Ex-Servicemen (ESM) of Haryana only.Female candidates of General and all reserved categories of other States. | 250/- |
| Male and Female candidates of Scheduled Castes/ Backward Classes-A/ Backward Classes- B/ Ex-Servicemen and Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) of Haryana only | 250/- |
| Persons with disabilities (with at least 40% disability) of Haryana only. | 0/- |
Important dates
The following dates shall be remembered to complete the application form:
| Opening date for submission of Application Form | 05.01.2024 |
| Closing date for submission of Application Form | 31.01.2024(Till 11:55 P.M.) |
| Tentative date for Preliminary Examination | 03.03.2024 |
Eligibility of a candidate
- A citizen of India as defined in the Constitution of India.
- Degree in law (before the law day of receipt of application form).
- Enrolled as an Advocate under the Advocates Act, 1961.
- The age limit is between 21 years to 42 years. However, a relaxation of five years in the upper age limit is provided for the below-mentioned categories:
- Scheduled Castes/ Scheduled Tribes/ Other Backward Classes of Haryana State.
- Unmarried Women of Haryana State.
- Only a Matriculation Certificate or equivalent qualification certificate will be accepted as evidence of the Candidate’s age.
- A relaxation to the aforementioned age limit is also given to the physically handicapped and PwD candidates of Haryana. They can apply for the exam until they are 10 years older than the normal age limit. The same applies to the physically handicapped and PwD candidates who belong to SC/ST, but they have an extra 5 years of age relaxation.
Pay scale
The salary is regulated by the 7th Pay Commission and ranges from Rs. 27,700- 44700 along with other allowances like home allowance, electricity allowance, medical allowance, insurance coverage, etc.
Probation period
Two years from the date of recruitment. After serving for this period the selected candidates get additional benefits related to the job, for instance, rebates in home loans, etc.
Therefore, the article provides a detailed strategy to be followed in the upcoming Haryana Judicial Services Preliminary Examination, the routine to be followed, the syllabus to be covered with the weightage given to each subject in the examination and the importance of solving questions.
Haryana Judicial Services Prelims examination pattern
The Preliminary Exam will be of 2 hours duration. The question paper will consist of a total of 125 questions of 4 marks each and for every wrong answer there will be a penalty of 0.80 marks, i.e., 1/5th which will be deducted. However, no marks will be deducted for unattempted questions.
| Exam | Total Marks | No. of Questions | Duration | Negative Marks | Nature |
| Preliminary | 500 (4 marks for each correct answer) | 125 (Multiple Choice Type) | 2 hours | Yes ( 1/5th or 0.80 marks for each wrong question) | Qualifying.Minimum qualifying marks,for the general category = 45%.for the reserved category = 40% |
Syllabus for the Haryana Judicial Services Preliminary exam
The Preliminary Exam will consist of Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) or we may say objective-type questions with multiple-choice answers. The candidates should have a general understanding and basic knowledge of the subjects that will be covered in the Mains Exam. Following is the list of law subjects prescribed for the preliminary exam:
- Code of Civil Procedure, 1909.
- Indian Evidence Act, 1872.
- Indian Contract Act,1872.
- Indian Partnership Act, 1932.
- Sales of Goods Act, 1930.
- Specific Relief Act, 1963.
- Hindu Law (The Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, The Hindu Succession Act, 1956, The Hindu Minority and Guardianship Act, 1956, The Hindu Adoptions and Maintenance Act, 1956).
- Muslim Law.
- Customary Law.
- Law of Registration, 1908.
- Law of Limitations, 1962.
- Indian Penal Code, 1860.
- Criminal Procedure Code,1973.
- Haryana Rent Control Act, 1973.
- Punjab Courts Act, 1918.
It is expected that the candidates shall have a graduate-level understanding of all the subjects. The prescribed subjects are the same for the mains examination.
Apart from this, it is expected that the candidate shall be able to answer questions on the following:
- Knowledge of current national and international important events.
- Indian legal and constitutional history and governance. (Although the Constitution of India is not specifically provided in the syllabus, questions from this part are framed from the Constitution. So don’t skip revising it. Generally, around 10-11 questions are asked from here only.)
- Analytical skills.
- Reasoning and aptitude.
Following is the analysis of the past year’s subject-wise questions and the respective marks allotted to each question in the Haryana Judiciary Prelims exam:
| Subjects | 2017 | 2019 | 2021 | |||
| No. of Questions | Total Marks | No. of Questions | Total Marks | No. of Questions | Total Marks | |
| Code of Civil Procedure | 16 | 64 | 20 | 80 | 13 | 52 |
| Indian Evidence Act | 12 | 48 | 16 | 64 | 13 | 52 |
| Indian Contract Act | 7 | 28 | 7 | 28 | 6 | 24 |
| Sales of Goods Act | 3 | 12 | 4 | 16 | 3 | 12 |
| Specific Relief Act | 4 | 16 | 5 | 20 | 3 | 12 |
| Indian Partnership Act | 3 | 12 | 3 | 12 | 3 | 12 |
| Personal Laws (Hindu Law, Muslim Law, Customary Law) | 16 | 64 | 15 | 60 | 17 | 68 |
| Law of Registration | 3 | 12 | 2 | 8 | 3 | 12 |
| Law of Limitation | 4 | 16 | 4 | 16 | 3 | 12 |
| Indian Penal Code | 13 | 52 | 10 | 40 | 13 | 52 |
| Code of Criminal Procedure | 16 | 64 | 14 | 56 | 17 | 68 |
| Haryana Rent Control Act | 2 | 8 | 2 | 8 | 3 | 12 |
| Punjab Courts Act | 1 | 4 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 4 |
| General Knowledge | 13 | 52 | 12 | 48 | 14 | 56 |
| Indian legal and constitutional history and governance (Constitution of India) | 10 | 40 | 9 | 36 | 11 | 44 |
| Legal Maxims | 2 | 8 | 2 | 8 | 2 | 8 |
| Total | 125 | 500 | 125 | 500 | 125 | 500 |
Note: There may be a variation of +/-2 questions within each sub-division.
Now the question arises which types of questions are asked, for this, you can refer to the following table:
| Types of questions | Number of Questions (approx.) |
| Direct- Index-based (Section/ Chapter/ Part/ Order/ Schedule) Example: Section 124 of the Evidence Act provides for privileges in respect of? | 10-15 |
| Definitions (Section no./ Definition/ Essentials/ Kinds)Example: Section 27 of Cr.P.C. deals with? | 10-12 |
| Illustration basedExample: A is arrested by police and accused of murder of B. During the investigation, A voluntarily agrees to undergo narco analysis and therein he confesses to having murdered B. | 2-4 |
| Case law-based (landmark/ recent judgments)Example: Reference by the President of India under Article 143(1) of the Constitution (Keshav Singh’s case, AIR 1965 SC 745) relates to? | 3-5 (match the following type of question is asked involving 4-5 case laws) |
| Factual questions (history, date of enactment, committees, commissions, amendments, limitations, age, concerned court/authority) Example: The Commissioner appointed for the purposes of recording evidence (cross-examination) is obliged to submit his report to the court appointing the commission within? | 12-15 |
| Conceptual questions (theory, doctrines, explanations, exceptions, jurisdictions)Example: What is the effect of the opinion of the experts upon the court? In which of the following writs, the doctrine of res judicata is not applicable? | 25-30 |
| Legal MaximsExample: Qui facit per alium, facit per se means? | 2 |
| Personalities/ Places/ Schemes in newsExample: Which is the first country to allow voting through mobile phones? | 2-3 |
| Note: Questions from various segments may be overlapping, therefore, it is not possible to categorise them into a specific head. | |
How to prepare for Haryana Judicial Services prelims exam
The candidate shall start the preparation with a comprehensive study that is pre+mains, as this approach will help in the complete preparation of the examination. It is only when the notification is out the candidate should focus only on the preliminary exam. So start your dream of becoming a Judge by adopting the following strategy:
- One must note that the best approach to start is reading Bare Acts. Bare Acts are considered to be the holy book for clearing any Judiciary Exam.
- Once you are done reading the Bare Acts, thereafter, in the second reading accompany the Bare Acts with reference books or your notes (if any).
- Supplement this with solving the MCQs (either Previous Year Papers or Mock Questions) to analyse the frequently asked sections or concepts from that particular chapter or subject.
- In the third reading, supplement your notes with the recent case law and amendments. Refer to current legal news and blogs/ articles for this. Again solve PYPs and Mocks.
- In this way, you will be reading the prescribed syllabus at least 3 times and will be surprised to know that every time you read, you are going to find some new concepts in the same bare act/ book. This also helps in remembering the large number of sections/ articles.
- It is advisable to first go through subjects which you have not covered previously to avoid last-minute anxiety.
- After completing the syllabus once, try to analyse the key areas by solving the MCQs and then do the S.W.O.T. analysis of your preparation, i.e.,
- S= Strength
- W= Weakness
- O= Opportunities
- T = Threats
- In this way you will get to know:
- Subjects of strength – Since this is the area where you already have a better understanding of the subject so devote less time and revise more. Since you have a better understanding of these subjects, just follow your notes, solve questions and summarise them into short and precise notes for quick revision.
- Subjects of weakness – Keeping in view the demand of the paper as to the number of questions asked, devote more time to these subjects and revise 2-3 times.
- For example, one might not be good at Law of Partnership or Law of Registration, but since it has less weightage and the number of questions asked in the paper is few, reading bare acts 2-3 times before the exam will suffice.
- However, if you’re weak in topics from subjects like Civil Procedure Code,1909, Criminal Procedure Code, 1973 or Indian Penal Code, 1860, etc which are the core subjects having more weightage then devote more time to these subjects.
- Subjects of opportunity – The paper consists of subjects that you might be reading for the first time and carrying very few marks but those 1 or 2 questions might help you to fetch definite marks and cross the final cut-off.
- For instance, the Haryana Rent Control Act, 1973, Punjab Courts Act, 1918, , Sales of Goods Act, 1930, The Partnership Act, 1932, etc., are small acts that demand a very small number of hours and can be completed in a day or two. So these subjects create an opportunity for you to gain more in less time.
- Subjects of Threats – There might be a subject or areas in a particular subject which seems to be a threat. Don’t worry about those areas, just revise these subjects more frequently to have a basic understanding.
- Don’t ever get caught up in this web and then ruin your entire paper. Make your strength so powerful that your threats cannot make a difference in your results.
“Always remember the weightage and the marks allotted to the particular subject and devote the time accordingly.”
- Maintaining a proper study plan becomes crucial for judiciary preparation. Divide the study hours into various slots to allot time to major subjects, minor subjects, general knowledge and English.
- The time should be allocated in a manner where you can revise and also solve questions related to that particular subject. It is suggested to solve around 200-300 questions (combined) per day in order to gain the accuracy and promptness required in the exam.
- The notification for the preliminary exam is already out, now the candidate shall have a strategic study plan for easy and simplified preparation. There is a time gap of approximately 30 days after filling of the application form, so for those 30 days the candidate may adopt the following plan:
| No.of Days | Day (Presumed) | Slot I(4 hours) | Slot II(2 hours) | Slot III(3 hours) | Slot IV(2 hour) |
| Day 1 | Monday | Criminal Procedure Code | Haryana Rent Control Act | Indian Penal Code | Solve MCQs of topics covered and quickly revise the topics related to wrong questions |
| Day 2 | Tuesday | Criminal Procedure Code | Haryana Rent Control Act | Indian Penal Code | Solve MCQs of topics covered and quickly revise the topics related to wrong questions |
| Day 3 | Wednesday | Criminal Procedure Code | Haryana State Specific G. K. (1 hr)English(1 hr) | Indian Penal Code | Solve MCQs of topics covered and quickly revise the topics related to wrong questions |
| Day 4 | Thursday | Criminal Procedure Code | G. K. – National (1 hr)English(1 hr) | Indian Penal Code | Solve MCQs of topics covered and quickly revise the topics related to wrong questions |
| Day 5 | Friday | Criminal Procedure Code | G. K. – National(1 hr)English(1 hr) | Indian Evidence Act | Solve MCQs of topics covered and quickly revise the topics related to wrong questions |
| Day 6 | Saturday | Criminal Procedure Code | G. K. – International(1 hr)English(1 hr) | Indian Evidence Act | Solve MCQs of topics covered and quickly revise the topics related to wrong questions |
| Day 7 | Sunday | Past year paper- 2013, 2014 | Revise weak topics from above mentioned subjects and go through Bare Act Index | ||
| Day 8 | Monday | Civil Procedure Code | Punjab Courts Act | Indian Evidence Act | Solve MCQs of topics covered and quickly revise the topics related to wrong questions |
| Day 9 | Tuesday | Civil Procedure Code | Punjab Courts Act | Law of Limitations | Solve MCQs of topics covered and quickly revise the topics related to wrong questions |
| Day 10 | Wednesday | Civil Procedure Code | Indian Polity | Law of Limitations | Solve MCQs of topics covered and quickly revise the topics related to wrong questions |
| Day 11 | Thursday | Civil Procedure Code | Indian Polity | Law of Registration | Solve MCQs of topics covered and quickly revise the topics related to wrong questions |
| Day 12 | Friday | Civil Procedure Code | Constitution of India | Law of Registration | Solve MCQs of topics covered and quickly revise the topics related to wrong questions |
| Day 13 | Saturday | Civil Procedure Code | Constitution of India | Haryana Rent Control Act | Solve MCQs of topics covered and quickly revise the topics related to wrong questions |
| Day 14 | Sunday | Past year paper- 2017, 2019 | Revise weak topics from above mentioned subjects and go through Bare Act Index | ||
| Day 15 | Monday | Indian Contract Act | Constitution of India | Sales of Goods Act | Solve MCQs of topics covered and quickly revise the topics related to wrong questions |
| Day 16 | Tuesday | Indian Contract Act | Constitution of India | Sales of Goods Act | Solve MCQs of topics covered and quickly revise the topics related to wrong questions |
| Day 17 | Wednesday | Indian Contract Act | Constitution of India | Sales of Goods Act | Solve MCQs of topics covered and quickly revise the topics related to wrong questions |
| Day 18 | Thursday | Indian Contract Act | Recent Amendments | Indian Partnership Act | Solve MCQs of topics covered and quickly revise the topics related to wrong questions |
| Day 19 | Friday | Specific Relief Act | Recent case laws | Indian Partnership Act | Solve MCQs of topics covered and quickly revise the topics related to wrong questions |
| Day 20 | Saturday | Specific Relief Act | G. K. (1 hr)English(1 hr) | Indian Partnership Act | Solve MCQs of topics covered and quickly revise the topics related to wrong questions |
| Day 21 | Sunday | Past year paper- 2021 | Revise weak topics from above mentioned subjects and go through Bare Act Index | ||
| Day 22 | Monday | Hindu Law | G. K. (1 hr)English(1 hr) | Muslim Law | Solve MCQs of topics covered and quickly revise the topics related to wrong questions |
| Day 23 | Tuesday | Hindu Law | G. K. (1 hr)English(1 hr) | Muslim Law | Solve MCQs of topics covered and quickly revise the topics related to wrong questions |
| Day 24 | Wednesday | Hindu Law | G. K. (1 hr)English(1 hr) | Muslim Law | Solve MCQs of topics covered and quickly revise the topics related to wrong questions |
| Day 25 | Thursday | Revise the weak areas/ any part left from any subject | Comprehensive Test- 1 | ||
| Day 26 | Friday | Revision Round 1 (all subjects in a summarized manner) | Comprehensive Test- 2 | ||
| Day 27 | Saturday | Comprehensive Test- 3 | |||
| Day 28 | Sunday | Revision Round 2 (all subjects in a summarized manner with special focus on most frequently asked topics) | Comprehensive Test- 4 | ||
| Day 29 | Monday | Comprehensive Test- 5 | |||
| Day 30 | Tuesday | Revision Round 3 (Just go through the Index of the Bare Acts and any recent amendment or case law) | Relax and meditate | ||
Note: Make changes in the above plan as per your convenience and time.
- Working professionals may convert this schedule as per the working and non-working days.
- For instance, covering major subjects on weekends while reading minor acts on working days.
- Utilise travelling times for general knowledge and current legal affairs.
- The need for motivation: It is quite debatable whether you need motivation for the biggest goal of your life or not. The answer to this is that achieving your goal and fulfilling the dreams of yourself and your family is the biggest motivation.
- At the same time being employed with one of the most promising jobs in the Country at the earliest possible opportunity in this scenario of stagflation is the greatest desire of all the competitive exams aspirants.
- However at times, the candidate might not have the same zeal as he/ she has on other days.
- For such days one can opt to reduce the number of study hours, say for example, just go through whatever you have read in a week in a summarised manner or take any comprehensive mock test and then take a break from study for the rest of the day.
- Spending a few hours with friends and family may help.
- Playing sports of your choice, watching movies/series or just sleeping, also helps to regain strength and start again.
- This exercise relaxes your mind and you will be all set to study with a fresh mind from the next day.
Efficient utilization of time while preparing for the Haryana Judicial Services Prelims exam
- Chart your course ahead and identify the key areas to prepare.
- Keep pace with a compact schedule set for the examination and complete the syllabus in a time-bound manner.
- Today’s scenario is of smart study, therefore, the candidate should:
- contemplate and weigh each and every area to be studied from the list of the prescribed subjects,
- the type of questions asked and the marks assigned to the particular subject in the paper and then act accordingly.
- It is advisable not to leave any subject halfway and move on to another subject.
- For instance, if Contract Law cannot be completed in the time allotted, then don’t make the mistake of leaving the contract law mid-way and start with another subject.
- First complete the subject you have started first and then move on to the next otherwise you will not be able to understand both subjects.
- Try to complete the remaining tasks in time gaps which you got in between the study slots.
- Practice pranayama and meditation daily for at least 15-20 minutes, go for a walk or run or play any outdoor game in which you are interested. This increases your metabolism as well as concentration level and sleep cycle.
- In this way you can have better health conditions that will in return help you to complete your daily targets.
Subject-specific guidance for Haryana Judicial Services prelims exam
Comprehensively determining the syllabus and strategy for each subject is a gateway for clearing the Haryana Judicial Service Exam. Following is the suggested strategy for each subject along with the resources which shall be adhered to:
| Subjects | Books/ References | Strategy |
| Code of Civil Procedure | Bare ActBook: CPC by C. K. Takwani.Singhal’s guide for Judicial Services.Pariksha Manthan Ready Reckoner for Prelims Exam. | This subject has more weightage in the exam and carries more marks.Read the Bare Act.It is divided into sections and orders. All the sections are very important.The orders can be referred to the relevant sections. Go through all the provisions; however, orders which are frequently asked in the paper must be prepared very well. For example, questions have been frequently asked from topics like decree, res judicata, parties to the suit, appearance of parties, framing of issues, adjournments, appeal, special suits, etc.Make a list of limitation periods.Take note of landmark and recent judgements.Read important amendments and dates. |
| Indian Evidence Act | Bare ActBook: Indian Evidence Act by Batuk Lal.Singhal’s guide for Judicial Services.Pariksha Manthan Ready Reckoner for Prelims Exam. | Subject of more weightage and should be prepared thoroughly. All the sections are very important as well as the case laws. Take note of landmark and recent judgements.Focus on the legal maxims, doctrines and illustrations appended to the sections.Read important amendments and dates.Also make a comparative study with the new Bhartiya Sakshya Act,2023. |
| Indian Contract Act | Bare ActBook: Contract Law by Avatar Singh or Dr. R.K. Bangia (this is available in easy language and the topics are dealt with headings which is also helpful in mains answer writing).Singhal’s guide for Judicial Services.Pariksha Manthan Ready Reckoner for Prelims Exam. | Sections from 1-75 are very important and shall be read thoroughly along with the case laws.Read the definitions and essentials of it.Remaining sections may be dealt in accordance with the demand of the paper. For example, questions from the continuing guarantee, agency, agent’s role and duties are most commonly asked.Focus on illustrations. (direct questions are asked).Take note of landmark and recent judgements.Remember certain aspects are defined by the case laws, for example, general offer is defined in Carlill v. Carbolic Smoke Balls case. |
| Indian Partnership Act | Bare ActBook: Law of Partnership by Avtar Singh.Singhal’s guide for Judicial Services.Pariksha Manthan Ready Reckoner for Prelims Exam. | Subject of less weightage. Bare Act is sufficient for this subject.Supplement the sections with important case laws/ any recent judgments. |
| Sales of Goods Act | Bare ActBook: Contract-II by Dr. R.K. Bangia.Singhal’s guide for Judicial Services.Pariksha Manthan Ready Reckoner for Prelims Exam. | Subject of less weightage. Bare Act is sufficient for this subject. Supplement the sections with important case laws/ any recent judgments. |
| Specific Relief Act | Bare ActBook: Specific Relief Act by Avtar Singh.Singhal’s guide for Judicial Services.Pariksha Manthan Ready Reckoner for Prelims Exam. | All the sections are important.Special focus should be on chapters I, II, VI-VIII as questions are frequently asked from these areas. Amendments via case laws are quite frequent so be updated. |
| Personal Laws (Hindu Law, Muslim Law, Customary Law) | Bare ActBook: Family Law by Paras Diwan.Singhal’s guide for Judicial Services.Pariksha Manthan Ready Reckoner for Prelims Exam. | Questions asked from this section are quite dynamic, therefore, each topic is to be dealt in length. Bare Acts are not sufficient for this section.It is recommended to follow the textbook or the notes.Many laws are enforced via case laws, so be updated.The provisions of the Acts involved should be read in detail.Read important amendments and dates, for example, changes made in succession Law in 2005 in respect of women. |
| Law of Registration | Bare ActBook: Law of Registration by Mulla.Singhal’s guide for Judicial Services.Pariksha Manthan Ready Reckoner for Prelims Exam. | Subject of less weightage. Bare Act is sufficient for this subject. Case laws shall be referred to.Supplement the sections with important case laws/ any recent judgments. |
| Law of Limitation | Bare ActBook: Law of Limitation by Avtar Singh.Singhal’s guide for Judicial Services.Pariksha Manthan Ready Reckoner for Prelims Exam. | Subject of less weightage. Bare Act is sufficient for this subject. Case laws shall be referred to.Make a list of important articles from Schedule.Learn the prescribed Limitation period for filing suits, applications,.revision, review, appeals.Supplement the sections with important case laws/ any recent judgments. |
| Indian Penal Code | Bare Act.Book: IPC by K.D Gaur or Rattan Lal & Dhiraj Lal.Singhal’s guide for Judicial Services.Pariksha Manthan Ready Reckoner for Prelims Exam. | Again the subject of more weightage and should be prepared thoroughly. All the sections are very important as well as the case laws.The definitions, essentials and punishment prescribed for the offences shall be focused upon.Read important amendments and datesAlso make a comparative study with the new Bhartiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023. (Many provisions are shuffled and new offences are introduced). |
| Criminal Procedure Code | Bare ActBook: Criminal Procedure Code by R. V. KelkarSinghal’s guide for Judicial Services.Pariksha Manthan Ready Reckoner for Prelims Exam. | Subject of more weightage and should be prepared thoroughly. All the sections are very important as well as the case laws. Read important amendments and dates.Remember the section numbers, the concerned authorities,the process involved.Also make a comparative study with the new Bhartiya Nyay Sanhita, 2023. (Many changes are made in the provisions and the powers of the Authorities under the Code have also been changed). |
| Haryana Rent Control Act | Bare Act | Questions are asked directly from the sections.Reading the provisions from the bare act is sufficient at this stage. |
| Punjab Courts Act | Bare Act | Questions are asked directly from the sections.Reading the provisions from the bare act is sufficient at this stage. |
| General Knowledge | Current affairs magazines:Competition in focus/ Pratiyogita Darpan,Haryana G.K.: Spectrum /Know your State by Arihant. | This section is quite dynamic. Follow the news of current international and national importance.Focus on legal amendments and case laws. Also refer to Haryana State specific G.K., for example, historical and geographical aspects, famous places and culture, sports, awards, government schemes, etc. |
| Indian legal and constitutional history and governance (Constitution of India) | Bare ActBook: Constitution of India by M.P. Jain or J.N. Pandey. Indian Polity by M Laxmikanth.Pratiyogita Darpan (polity).Singhal’s guide for Judicial Services.Pariksha Manthan Ready Reckoner for Judicial Services Prelims Exam. | This section should be read carefully. Unlike other states’ judicial exams, questions are not just based on articles or case laws but also on legal history.Focus on recent amendments and related controversies and the case laws. |
- Past year question papers: One can adhere to any books available in the market. Suggested books (latest editions):
- Singhal’s solved papers for the Judicial Services Preliminary Examination.
- Pariksha Manthan’s compendium of Multiple Choice Questions for Judicial Services Examination by Samarth Agarwal.
- Universal’s Multiple Choice Questions for Judicial Services Examination by Vinay Kumar Gupta.
- Summary guides or ready reckoner: This helps to revise the subjects just before a week of the exam or while travelling to the exam destination.
- Universal’s Guide to Judicial Services Examination.
- Pariksha Manthan’s ready reckoner for Judicial Services Preliminary Examinations by Samarth Agarwal.
- Practice book for multiple choice type questions: Any book can be adhered to to have an understanding of how questions are framed from particular topics. Suggested books:
- Pariksha Manthan’s compendium of Multiple Choice Questions for Judicial Services Examination by Samarth Agarwal.
- Universal’s Multiple Choice Questions for Judicial Services Examination by Vinay Kumar Gupta.
- Singhal’s Multiple Choice Questions for the Judicial Services Examination.
Previous year question papers (PYPS) and mock tests for Haryana Judicial Services prelims exam
- The only way to analyse the exam pattern is by solving the past year’s question papers. One can only get to know things by jumping into the field itself.
- Previous year question papers play a crucial role in the whole process of preparation. This shall become your habit since the notification is already out.
- It provides a field to practice and to analyse where the aspirant stands and what weak areas to focus upon.
- In the Haryana Judiciary mostly practical and conceptual questions are asked unlike direct section-based questions and therefore, solving the questions provides an understanding of the whole curriculum. This way candidates can chart out where to focus more and where to allot less time in studies.
- The candidate can solve as many papers as he/she can. However, it is suggested to solve at least the past 5 years question papers.
- Apart from PYPs the candidate can also take up the mock tests which are subject-based as well as comprehensive ones containing all the subjects.
- The mock tests can be accessed from any coaching institution which you have joined or from the books by Pariksha Manthan or Universals or the online test series courses by Lawsikho.
Exam day tips for Haryana Judicial Services prelims exam
- Keep the necessary documents and admit card.
- Watch your health.
- Reach the destination before the time.
- Relax, stay calm and appear in the examination.
- After getting the question paper and OMR sheet fill in the details quite attentively.
- Once the exam starts, read the questions twice
- Beware of the words used in the questions like except, not, false, not true, etc.
- Think whether you know the answers without seeing the options.
- If yes, See the option and mark the answer.
- If not, then try to find out the answer from the given options.
- If neither works out, then try the elimination technique and rule out the questions which are likely not to be correct.
- Once you reach the last two options, then make an educated guess and mark the answer.
- For direct one-liner questions, read it and try to remember the answers.
- For lengthy questions, read the options first and then go through the question and mark the most suitable answer.
- For questions where you have doubt mark it for the second reading.
- While filling in the bullets try to go for 5-10 questions, avoid marking all the questions in one go to avoid any mistakes.
Common mistakes to avoid in the Haryana Judicial Services prelims exam
- Ignoring the prescribed syllabus. Every State judiciary is making certain amendments to the syllabus, so be careful.
- Referring to too many books and resources.
- Not solving past year papers.
- Not preparing a proper strategy or following the schedule.
- Getting confused between the subjects as to which subject to start with.
- Relying on others instead of following your own strategy.
- Too much planning without any execution.
- Eating outside food.
- Not maintaining proper health.
- Spending too much time on social media.
Words of motivation
“A river cuts through rock, not because of its power, but because of its persistence.”
~ James N. Watkins
- The journey of preparation is very exciting, along with the preparation it teaches you a better approach to taking up the tasks of your life. By having a result-oriented approach, opportunities can be turned into success.
- The exam requires a lot of dedication, hard work and smart strategy to complete the syllabus. So just have faith in yourself and start the preparation with all the positive vibes.
- Remember revision is the key to success. So make it a habit. Always allot a minimum of one hour for revision in your daily study plan.
- Revise whatever you have read the whole day before sleeping. Without revision, all your efforts will be in vain.
- The syllabus is lengthy, comprising many subjects involving various provisions, case laws, amendments, etc. which can only be remembered by revising the subject time and again.
- Practice as many questions as you can. This exercise makes you memorise and better understand the topic.
Additional resources for Haryana Judicial Services prelims exam
- Newspapers and magazines.
- Legal blogs and articles.
- Recent Case laws.
- Daily new analysis.
- Government websites like Press Information Bureau, PRS legislative, etc. for recent amendments, and government initiatives.
- Latest Compendiums on Current affairs.
- Comprehensive test series.
- Judiciary channels on Telegram: It can provide links to books in PDF form, updates for upcoming exams and many other reference materials.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on the Haryana Judicial Services prelims exam
How to study and what to study for the Haryana judiciary prelims exam?
Refer to the prescribed syllabus and follow the suggested books with the Previous Year Papers. For a detailed analysis check the above article.
What strategy should be followed for the Haryana Judiciary Prelims Exam?
Prepare a detailed study plan and divide the slots into minor and major Acts to study.
How to read Bare Acts in a faster and more efficient manner?
The candidate can follow these simple ways:
- Scan the index thoroughly and note the various parts, chapters and schedule provided.
- Divide the Bare Act to be read in multiple days.
- Mark the important sections and read the headings. (one can search frequently asked questions by analysing PYPs.)
- Break the long sections into parts and then read.
- Mark the essentials of the sections.
- Make mnemonics for lengthy definitions or sections.
- Write the doctrines or any landmark or recent case law involved in the bare act itself.
- Read the explanations/ exceptions or provisos.
- Emphasis should be made on words like: ‘may’, ‘shall’, ‘and/or’ and the Concerned Authorities/ Courts.
- Read the illustrations. (Direct questions are asked from IPC and Contract law illustrations)
- Also write the related/ similar sections provided in the same Act or any other other Act.
- Before moving on to read new sections, revise those read earlier.
- Summarise and write the above points in your notebook for quick and easy revision. Use bullet points, charts, diagrams, and tables to write as precisely as you can.
How important are past year’s papers for clearing the Haryana Judiciary Prelims Exam?
Most importantly to have a better understanding of the demand of the examination.
What is the subject-wise weightage in the Haryana Judiciary Prelims Exam?
Refer to the analysis of the past year’s paper table in the above article.
What are the reference books for the Haryana Judiciary Prelims Exam?
Refer to the references and suggested readings table in the above article.
What to cover the general knowledge part in the Haryana Judiciary?
The candidates are expected to have the basic knowledge of:
- Haryana-specific G.K. like schemes, famous places, etc.
- News of current international and national importance.
- Legal amendments and case laws.
Whether to rely on online or offline resources for clearing the Haryana Judiciary Prelims Exam?
Both can be referred to, as the convenience of the candidate.
Is there a negative marking in the Haryana Judiciary Prelims Exam?
Yes. The question paper will consist of a total of 125 questions of 4 marks each and for every wrong answer there will be a penalty of 0.80 marks, i.e., 1/5th which will be deducted.
What is the penalty for wrong answers in the Haryana Judiciary Prelims Exam?
For each wrong answer, 1/5th mark is deducted i.e. 0.80 marks.
Whether to appear in other State Judicial Exams while preparing for the Haryana Judiciary Prelims Exam?
Yes, the candidate can opt for the States where the pattern of examination and the syllabus are similar.
- For example, the prescribed syllabus for Haryana Judiciary, Delhi Judiciary, Himachal Pradesh Judiciary, and M.P. Judiciary syllabus overlaps and can be prepared simultaneously.
- Identify the common subjects and prepare them first.
- It also helps in maintaining the flow of preparation.
How to be motivated for the judicial services exam?
Stay calm and focus on your goal.
How to deal with time management?
Set small targets, for example, to read 10 sections a day.
Complete those targets in a time-bound manner.
Move on to bigger targets like the complete revision of the subject or solving 100 MCQs.
How to manage stress?
Meditation, running or any other breathing exercises in a routine manner.
Things to remember on the day of examination in judicial services exam?
Required documents and stationery, carefully marking the OMR sheet and looking upon your health.