1.  If you are a fresh law graduate :

 Lower Judicial Services –

• Conducted by the respective State Public Commissions.
• Applicants must have a B. degree from a recognized university in India
• Applicants must be enrolled as an Advocate under the Advocates’ Act 1961
• Posted as Member of sub-ordinate judiciary.
• Benefit – No experience required. Secured Employment this early in your career.
• Cons – Promotions are time based.
• Age – between 21 to 35 years of age
• Final Year Candidates can also appear
• Citizen of India

 Not the right option if : You harbour dreams of becoming a High Court, Supreme Court Judge or desire hastened position up the ladder.

2. If you have few years experience in litigation :

Higher Judicial Services –

• Applicants must have a LL.B. degree from a recognized university in India
• Must have a prescribed minimum of seven years of litigating practice
• Posted as ADJ ( Additional District Judge )
• Benefit – Accelerated Promotions.
• Cons – Late security, Competitive Exam Preparation quite late in life.
• Age may vary from state to state
• Citizen of India

3. Basic Exam Structure for both Exams :

• Preliminary Examination
• Mains 
• Viva-Voce/Interview

4. Basic Syllabus for both Exams :

• Civil law
• Criminal Law
• Language Paper
• Some States – GK, General Science, Current Affairs