How to Become a Magistrate in Pakistan – Eligibility, Exams & Career Guide

Magistrate jobs in Pakistan are highly respected roles within the judiciary, offering legal professionals the opportunity to uphold justice and serve society. If you're a law graduate or aspiring civil servant, here's your complete guide to pursuing a Magistrate career in Pakistan.

What Is a Magistrate in Pakistan?

A Magistrate in Pakistan is a judicial officer appointed by the government, empowered to handle various civil and criminal cases at the district or tehsil level. Magistrates often deal with:

  • Minor criminal offenses (e.g., theft, assault, traffic violations)
  • Civil disputes and property cases
  • Bail hearings and remand orders
  • Issuance of warrants
  • Preventive measures under CrPC (Criminal Procedure Code)

📚 Eligibility Criteria for Magistrate Jobs in Pakistan

To apply for Magistrate or Civil Judge positions in Pakistan, candidates must meet the following criteria:

✅ Educational Qualification:

  • LLB Degree from a recognized university

  • Must be registered with Pakistan Bar Council or provincial bar councils

✅ Age Limit:

  • Typically 22 to 35 years

  • Age relaxation may apply based on provincial laws

✅ Citizenship:

  • Must be a Pakistani national

📝 How to Apply – Judicial Exam (Through PPSC / SPSC / FPSC)

Most magistrate positions are filled through Judicial Services Exams conducted by provincial public service commissions such as:

  • PPSC – Punjab Public Service Commission

  • SPSC – Sindh Public Service Commission

  • FPSC – Federal Public Service Commission (for Islamabad judiciary)

📌 Exam Structure:

  1. Written Test:
    Subjects include: Civil Law, Criminal Law, Constitutional Law,English & Urdu Essay/Precis, General Knowledge

  2. Interview:
    Candidates who pass the written exam are called for an interview.

  3. Medical & Background Check:
    A final check before appointment.


💼 Duties of a Magistrate in Pakistan

  • Conducting trials of minor offenses

  • Issuing search and arrest warrants

  • Monitoring police investigations

  • Granting or rejecting bail

  • Resolving minor civil and revenue disputes

  • Maintaining law and order under Section 144 CrPC


💸 Salary and Benefits

Magistrates in Pakistan are appointed as BPS-17 officers. Here's what to expect:

  • Basic Salary: Around PKR 60,000 – 80,000/month

  • Allowances: House rent, judicial, utility, medical, and travel allowances

  • Other Benefits:

    • Official residence or housing allowance

    • Government vehicle (in some cases)

    • Promotion to Senior Civil Judge, District & Sessions Judge, and beyond


📈 Career Growth Path

  1. Civil Judge / Magistrate (BPS-17)

  2. Senior Civil Judge (BPS-18)

  3. Additional District & Sessions Judge (BPS-19)

  4. District & Sessions Judge (BPS-20)

  5. High Court Judge (via nomination or promotion)


⭐ Tips to Succeed in the Judicial Exam

  • Join a reputed judicial academy or coaching center

  • Focus on bare acts of CPC, CrPC, QSO, and PPC

  • Improve legal writing and essay skills

  • Solve past papers and mock exams

  • Stay updated with constitutional and recent legal developments in Pakistan


📌 Final Thoughts

Becoming a magistrate in Pakistan is more than a job — it's a responsibility to ensure justice, equality, and peace in society. If you have a passion for law, discipline, and service, this career path is worth the effort.

Stay consistent, study smart, and you could soon be wearing the robes of a respected Magistrate in Pakistan.