Bihar Judicial Services Exam (Bihar PSC) – Complete Guide

The Bihar Judicial Services Exam, also known as Bihar PSC (Public Service Commission), is a competitive exam held for recruiting judicial officers in Bihar. It is one of the most sought-after exams for law graduates aspiring to join the judicial system of the state. The exam is divided into three stages: Prelims, Mains, and Interview.


Bihar Judicial Services Exam Pattern

1. Prelims Exam Pattern

The Prelims Exam is the first stage of the exam, designed to test the general knowledge and legal knowledge of the candidates. It consists of the following sections:

  • General Knowledge: This section tests the candidate's awareness of important events in Bihar, India, and the world. It covers topics such as Geography, History, Politics, Economy, and Current Affairs.
  • General English: This section focuses on language proficiency, including comprehension, grammar, and vocabulary.
  • Law Paper: This section tests candidates' knowledge of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), Indian Evidence Act, Family Law, and the Indian Constitution. It may also include questions related to Constitutional Law, Torts, and Civil Procedure Code (CPC).

The Prelims Exam consists of multiple-choice questions (MCQs), and there are no negative marks for incorrect answers. It typically lasts for 2 hours.

2. Mains Exam Pattern

Once candidates clear the Prelims, they can move on to the Mains Exam, which is more detailed and includes written papers as follows:

  • General Knowledge (Paper I): This paper covers extensive topics in General Knowledge, including Indian History, Geography, Economics, Indian Polity, and Current Affairs. It also includes topics relevant to Bihar such as state geography, administration, and history.
  • Law Paper I (Paper II): This paper covers Civil Law topics such as Contract Law, Tort Law, Property Law, Indian Contract Act, Specific Relief Act, Transfer of Property Act, and Law of Evidence.
  • Law Paper II (Paper III): This paper is focused on Criminal Law and includes Indian Penal Code (IPC), Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), Indian Evidence Act, and Law of Evidence in Criminal Matters.
  • Language Paper (Paper IV): This paper tests the candidate’s proficiency in English, with sections on comprehension, precis writing, grammar, and essay writing. There may be a choice of Hindi or English as the language medium.
  • Law Paper III (Paper V): This paper tests knowledge of Constitutional Law, Administrative Law, Public International Law, and Family Law (Hindu Law, Muslim Law, and Christian Law).

The Mains Exam is descriptive in nature, and candidates are required to write detailed answers. The exam lasts for 3 hours per paper.

3. Interview

After successfully clearing the Mains Exam, candidates are called for the Interview. This stage is designed to assess the candidate's personality, legal knowledge, and communication skills.

  • The Interview typically lasts for 15-20 minutes.
  • Candidates are asked to explain their answers from the Mains and discuss legal principles.
  • The interview panel generally consists of retired judges or senior lawyers.

Important Note: A candidate must secure a minimum of 40% in each paper of the Mains Exam and 50% overall to qualify for the Interview stage.


Bihar Judicial Services Exam Syllabus

Here’s a breakdown of the important topics included in the Bihar Judicial Services Exam syllabus:

Prelims Exam Syllabus:

  1. General Knowledge:

    • History of India and Bihar
    • Geography of India and Bihar
    • Politics: Indian Constitution, Governance, Polity
    • Economic Development and Sustainable Development
    • Current Affairs (National and International)

  2. General English:

    • Comprehension
    • Sentence Structure
    • Vocabulary
    • Grammar and Usage
    • Essay Writing

  3. Law Paper:

    • Constitution of India: Fundamental Rights, Directive Principles of State Policy, Judiciary system, Constitutional Amendments.
    • Indian Penal Code (IPC): Types of crimes, punishment, defenses, etc.
    • Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC): Arrest, Bail, Investigation, Trials, Appeals.
    • Indian Evidence Act: Relevance of facts, admission, and confessions.
    • Family Law: Hindu Law, Muslim Law, Christian Law.

Mains Exam Syllabus:

  1. General Knowledge: A more in-depth analysis of topics, including Indian history, the geography of Bihar, current affairs, national politics, economic policies, etc.

  2. Law Paper I – Civil Law:

    • Indian Contract Act: Contracts, breach, and remedies.
    • Transfer of Property Act: Sale, mortgage, and lease.
    • Indian Trust Act: Trust and its management.
    • Specific Relief Act: Specific performance of contracts, injunctions, etc.
    • Torts: Negligence, defamation, nuisance, etc.

  3. Law Paper II – Criminal Law:

    • IPC: Criminal offenses, defenses, procedures.
    • CrPC: Arrest, bail, investigation, and trials.
    • Indian Evidence Act: Relevancy of facts, documents, oral evidence, etc.
    • Law of Evidence in Criminal Matters: Principles and application in criminal law.

  4. Language Paper: English essay writing, grammar, and comprehension.

  5. Law Paper III – Constitutional Law:

    • Indian Constitution: Structure, fundamental rights, duties, and governance.
    • Public International Law: Treaties, conventions, human rights, etc.
    • Administrative Law: Functions and powers of administrative authorities.
    • Family Law: Hindu and Muslim laws related to marriage, divorce, inheritance, etc.

Preparation Tips and Strategy

  1. Understand the Syllabus: The first step in preparing for the Bihar Judicial Services Exam is to thoroughly understand the syllabus. By doing so, you can focus on the most important topics and avoid wasting time on irrelevant areas.

  2. Time Management: Time management is crucial in your preparation. Devote at least 6-8 hours daily for study, with breaks in between. You can divide the syllabus into manageable parts and allocate time accordingly.

  3. Make Notes: While studying, make concise notes for important concepts, especially for law subjects. These notes will be helpful for quick revision during the last phase of preparation.

  4. Study Material: Use the best study materials available, such as:

    • Bare Acts (IPC, CrPC, CPC, Evidence Act)
    • Standard Books (for each law subject)
    • Previous Year Question Papers
    • Mock Tests and Practice Papers: Regularly attempt mock tests to assess your preparation.

  5. Focus on Mains: The Mains Exam is descriptive, so practice writing answers regularly. Focus on clarity, structure, and depth in your answers.

  6. Regular Revision: Revise regularly, especially important topics and concepts. This will help you retain the information for a longer time.

  7. Stay Updated: Keep yourself updated with the latest amendments and rulings in law. Follow daily news related to law and current events.

  8. Take Mock Interviews: For the Interview, practice mock interviews with peers or mentors. Focus on communication skills, confidence, and clarity.


Conclusion

The Bihar Judicial Services Exam is a comprehensive exam that requires dedication and smart study strategies. By understanding the syllabus, practicing regularly, and staying consistent, you can significantly improve your chances of success in the exam. Stay motivated, and use the resources and tips available to you. Remember, regular revision, mock tests, and practical experience are key to cracking the exam.