Bombay High Court Recruitment 2026: 28 Associate Posts, Apply by April 30

The High Court of Judicature at Bombay, Principal Seat at Bombay, has released an official advertisement inviting online applications from eligible candidates for the recruitment of Associates. This recruitment drive aims to prepare a Select List of 27 candidates and a Wait List of 07 candidates for the prestigious post of Associate on its establishment. A total of 28 potential vacant posts (present + vacancies arising in the next two years) are covered under this notification. Aspiring law graduates who meet the stringent eligibility criteria are encouraged to apply online before the closing date of April 30, 2026.

Quick Overview

Vacancy Details

The recruitment is for the post of Associate. The details of the vacancies are as follows:

*Note: The post reserved for persons with disability will be filled in the near future after framing of guidelines by the High Court.

Eligibility Criteria

Candidates must fulfill the following eligibility criteria as on the date of publication of this advertisement:

Educational Qualification

• Must possess a Degree in Law from a recognized University.
• Must possess a Certificate about computer proficiency obtained from any of the recognized institutes (as listed below).
• Candidates who have passed Computer Typing Basic Course (GCC-TBC) English Typing speed of 40 w.p.m. conducted by Maharashtra State Council of Examination (MSCE) are exempted from producing Certificate about proficiency in Computer Operations, as per Government of Maharashtra, General Administration Department (Information Technology) Supplementary Circular No. मातंसं २०१२/ प्र. क्र. २७७/३९ dated 16/07/2018. The candidates who possess English Typing Certificate for speed of 40 w.p.m. or above of Government Commercial Certificate Examination or Industrial Training Institute (I.T.I.), must possess the required computer knowledge certificate.

Computer Knowledge Certificate Requirements:

Candidates must possess one of the following:

1. Certificate regarding qualification of Computer knowledge specified in Government of Maharashtra Resolution, Information Technology (GAD) Department No. मातंसं २०१२ / प्र. क्र. २७७/३९ dated 04/02/2013 and Supplementary Circular No. मातंसं २०१२ / प्र. क्र. २७७/३९ dated 08/01/2018.
2. OR
3. Certificate about proficiency in Computer Operation of Word Processor in Windows and Linux in addition to M.S. Office, M.S. Word, Wordstar-7 and Open Office Org. obtained from any of the following Institutes:
• University established under the Maharashtra Universities Act, 1994.
• Goa/Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education
• NIC
• D.O.E.A.C.C.
• APTECH
• NIIT
• C-DAC
• DATAPRO
• SSI
• BOSTON
• CEDIT
• MS-CIT

Age Limit (as on date of publication of Advertisement)

*Candidates belonging to Scheduled Caste, Scheduled Tribe, Other Backward Class or Special Backward Class specified for time being by the Government of Maharashtra.

Experience

• For Practicing Advocate: Must have 5 years experience in the High Court of Judicature at Bombay or its Subordinate Courts on the date of application.

Other Essential Conditions

• Must be a citizen of India and domiciled in the State of Maharashtra.
• Must be competent to enter into a contract.
• Must possess good character and antecedents.
• Must not have been convicted by a criminal court or have any criminal complaint pending.
• Must not have more than two living children born after 28/03/2005 (as per Maharashtra Civil Services Rule, 2005).
• Must not have been convicted of an offence involving moral turpitude or debarred by any Court or PSC.
• Must not have more than one living spouse.

Preference Criteria

Preference will be given to:

1. Candidates who have a minimum speed of 80 w.p.m. in English Shorthand and 35 w.p.m. in English typing.
2. Candidates who are able to read, write and speak Marathi language.

Application Fee

The examination fee details are as follows:

The fee is non-refundable. Candidates must ensure successful payment, as applications without fee payment will not be considered.

Important Dates

Selection Process

The selection process for the Associate post will involve the following stages:

1. Screening / Written Test (100 Marks)

   Eligible and shortlisted candidates will undergo a screening/written test of 100 marks for three hours duration. Minimum passing marks are 50, but the Selection Committee reserves the right to increase this benchmark if a large number of candidates secure marks in excess of 50.

   Syllabus for Screening / Written Test:

   Sr. No.	Subjects	Syllabus	Marks
   1	General English	Essay, Precis Writing, Letter Writing, Grammar etc.	30
   2	Legal Knowledge	The Bombay High Court Original Side Rules.	50
   		C.P.C., Cr.P.C./B.N.S.S., Limitation Act, The Maharashtra Court Fees Act, The Maharashtra Stamp Act.	20

2. Viva-voce (50 Marks)

   Only successful eligible candidates from the screening/written test would be called for Viva-voce.

The Select List and Wait List will be prepared based on the performance in the Screening Test and Viva-voce, in order of merit. The Select List and Wait List will be valid for a period of two years from the date of publication.

How to Apply

Candidates must apply online through the official website of the Bombay High Court. Follow these steps carefully:

1. Visit the Official Website: Go to https://bombayhighcourt.nic.in.
2. Navigate to Recruitment: Click on the ‘Recruitment’ section.
3. Find Associate Recruitment: Look for ‘Associate’ Recruitment and click on ‘Apply online’.
4. Pay Examination Fee: Before filling the application form, pay the Rs. 1000/- examination fee through the ‘SBI Collect’ online payment gateway facility. Obtain the alphanumeric reference number after successful payment.
5. Prepare Documents for Upload:
   • Photograph: Latest passport size (3.5 cm x 4.5 cm), scanned in .jpg/.jpeg format, size not exceeding 40 KB.
   • Signature: Scanned (3 cm x 2.5 cm) in .jpg/.jpeg format, size not exceeding 40 KB.
   • Other Documents (scanned in .pdf format, max 2 MB each): Birth Certificate, Caste Certificate (if applicable), Domicile of Maharashtra, Board Certificate of LL.B., Identity Card issued by High Court/Subordinate Courts (for staff) and Id Card or Sanad issued by Bar Council (for Advocates), Certificate of Computer Course, Payment Receipt (of SBI Collect fee).
6. Fill Online Application Form: Fill in all details accurately, including your full name as per educational documents, correct detailed address with Pin Code, e-mail, and registered mobile number. Enter the SBI Collect reference number correctly.
7. Upload Documents: Upload the scanned photograph, signature, and other required documents at the appropriate places in the form. Ensure all uploaded images/documents are clearly visible.
8. Review and Submit: Carefully review all entered information. Read the ‘Declaration’ and click ‘I Agree’, then click ‘Submit’. Note down your Registration ID Number.
9. Print Application: Take a printout of the submitted application, paste your photo, and put your signature in the designated spaces. This printout, along with original documents, will be required later for verification. Do not send the printout or documents at this stage.

Required Documents for Document Verification (DV)

Candidates called for document verification will need to submit self-attested copies and produce original documents for verification. The comprehensive list typically includes:

• Proof of Date of Birth (School Leaving Certificate, Birth Certificate, or SSC Board Certificate).
• Mark-sheets and passing certificates of educational qualifications (Graduation, Law Graduation, Post Graduation, etc.). If marks are in grades/CGPA, documentary proof of conversion to marks/percentage from the issuing institution.
• For Practicing Advocates: Sanad issued by Bar Council of Maharashtra and Goa, Certificate of Practice from respective Advocates’ Bar Associations, and Identity Card issued by Bar Council of Maharashtra and Goa.
• Certificate issued by the Government Board (GCC) or Government Certificate in Computer Typing Basic Course (GCC-TBC) or Industrial Training Institute (I.T.I.) for English Typing speed of 40 w.p.m. or above, or English Shorthand speed of 80 w.p.m. or above, if possessed.
• Certificate of computer proficiency issued by any reputed institution, as per eligibility criteria.
• Caste Certificate from competent authority (if applicable).
• Domicile Certificate from competent authority (stating domicile in Maharashtra).
• Government Gazette/Marriage Certificate (if candidate’s name is changed).
• Declaration of small family in the prescribed format (Form-A).
• Original Character Certificates (Form-B) issued by two respectable persons (non-relatives/friends) with full details, issued on or after the date of advertisement.
• No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Head of the Department, if currently working in a Government Office or Court.
• Any other documents to support the information provided in the online application form, or as requested by the Registry.
• Original photo ID proof (Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Election ID Card, Driving Licence, Passport, etc.) for Tests and Viva-voce.
• Printout of Hall Ticket/Admit Card.

Important Links

Job Profile & Career Scope

An Associate at the High Court of Judicature at Bombay typically plays a crucial role in assisting Hon’ble Judges and senior judicial officers. The responsibilities may include legal research, drafting memos, preparing case summaries, managing court records, assisting in court proceedings, and handling administrative tasks related to judicial functions. This position offers an excellent opportunity for law graduates to gain invaluable experience in the judicial system, understand intricate legal procedures, and contribute directly to the administration of justice.

Career Growth: The role of an Associate serves as a strong foundation for a career in the judiciary or legal profession. With experience, Associates can aspire to higher judicial service positions, pursue careers as Public Prosecutors, or excel in private legal practice. The exposure to high-profile cases and direct mentorship from experienced judges can significantly accelerate professional development.

Preparation Tips

Success in the Bombay High Court Associate recruitment requires a strategic and dedicated approach. Here are some tips:

Comprehensive Study Plan

• General English: Focus on improving essay writing, precis writing, letter writing, and grammar. Practice regularly to enhance clarity, conciseness, and accuracy. Refer to standard English grammar books.
• Legal Knowledge: Thoroughly study the Bombay High Court Original Side Rules. Additionally, gain a strong understanding of Civil Procedure Code (CPC), Criminal Procedure Code (Cr.P.C.) / Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), Limitation Act, The Maharashtra Court Fees Act, and The Maharashtra Stamp Act. Prioritize understanding the practical application of these laws.
• Computer Proficiency: Ensure you have the required computer proficiency certificate. If not, enroll in a recognized course immediately. Practice basic computer operations, MS Office, and typing skills.

Recommended Books

Based on this syllabus, here are highly recommended books:

Note: These are standard recommended books. Always refer to the latest editions and official bare acts for legal subjects.

Other Tips

• Previous Year Papers: If available, solve previous year question papers to understand the exam pattern and difficulty level.
• Mock Tests: Regularly take mock tests to improve speed, accuracy, and time management.
• Current Affairs (Legal): Stay updated with recent judgments and legal developments, especially those pertaining to the Bombay High Court.
• Interview Preparation: For Viva-voce, focus on your legal knowledge, communication skills, and general awareness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the last date to apply for Bombay High Court Associate Recruitment 2026?

A1: The last date to submit online applications is April 30, 2026, by 5:00 p.m.

Q2: What is the application fee for this recruitment?

A2: The application fee for all candidates is Rs. 1000/-, payable online through SBI Collect.

Q3: Is there any age relaxation for reserved categories?

A3: Yes, for Practicing Advocates belonging to reserved categories (SC, ST, OBC, SBC of Maharashtra), the maximum age limit is 43 years, compared to 38 years for the Open Category.

Q4: What is the selection process for the Associate post?

A4: The selection process involves a Screening/Written Test of 100 marks, followed by a Viva-voce of 50 marks for shortlisted candidates.

Q5: Is computer proficiency mandatory for the Associate post?

A5: Yes, candidates must possess a recognized certificate demonstrating computer proficiency as per the specific requirements mentioned in the official notification.

Q6: Can candidates from outside Maharashtra apply?

A6: The notification specifies that candidates must be domiciled in the State of Maharashtra. Therefore, only candidates with Maharashtra domicile are eligible to apply.

Q7: What documents are required at the time of online application?

A7: During online application, candidates need to upload scanned copies of their latest passport-size photograph, signature, and various documents like Birth Certificate, Law Degree Certificate, Caste Certificate (if applicable), Domicile Certificate, Computer Proficiency Certificate, and the SBI Collect payment receipt.

Q8: What if I face issues while downloading my Admit Card?

A8: The Bombay High Court will provide a link to download the Hall Ticket/Admit Card on its official website. If you face issues, ensure your internet connection is stable and try different browsers. In case of persistent problems, contact the High Court Registry through the official channels, as mentioned in the notification, well before the exam date.

Q9: Are government employees required to submit a No Objection Certificate (NOC)?

A9: Yes, candidates currently under Court/Government service must obtain prior permission and an ‘No Objection Certificate’ from their present office and produce it when directed by the Registry.