Madras High Court Recruitment 2026 - Apply Online for 04 Research Fellow, Research Assistant Posts

The High Court of Madras has announced recruitment notification No. 06/2026 dated 12.01.2026 for engagement of highly qualified legal professionals as Research Fellow and Research Assistant at the Tamil Nadu State Judicial Academy. This recruitment drive offers an excellent opportunity for law graduates and postgraduates to contribute to judicial research and legal analysis while working with one of India's most prestigious High Courts.

The Tamil Nadu State Judicial Academy, functioning under the aegis of the Madras High Court, is seeking talented individuals who possess strong analytical skills, comprehensive legal knowledge, and a passion for judicial research. This recruitment aims to fill 04 positions comprising 01 Research Fellow and 03 Research Assistant posts. Selected candidates will work on critical legal research projects, assist in preparation of judicial training materials, and contribute to the enhancement of judicial education in Tamil Nadu.

About Madras High Court

The Madras High Court, established in 1862, is one of the oldest High Courts in India and serves as the principal court for the state of Tamil Nadu and the Union Territory of Puducherry. With its rich heritage spanning over 160 years, the institution has played a pivotal role in shaping Indian jurisprudence. The court currently has a sanctioned strength of 75 judges and handles a vast array of civil, criminal, and constitutional matters.

The Tamil Nadu State Judicial Academy was established to provide continuous judicial education and training to judicial officers. The Academy conducts regular training programs, workshops, seminars, and conferences aimed at enhancing the professional competence of judicial officers and court staff. Research Fellows and Research Assistants recruited through this notification will be instrumental in supporting the Academy's mission of excellence in judicial education.

Detailed Post Information

The recruitment encompasses two distinct positions, each with specific qualification requirements and salary structures:

1. Research Fellow (01 Post): This senior research position requires candidates with a Post Graduate degree in Law (LLM) from a university recognized by the Bar Council of India. Research Fellows will be responsible for conducting in-depth legal research, preparing comprehensive research reports, analyzing landmark judgments, and assisting in curriculum development for judicial training programs. The position carries a consolidated pay of Rs. 45,000/- per month.

2. Research Assistant (03 Posts): These positions are suitable for law graduates holding an LLB degree from a Bar Council of India recognized university. Research Assistants will support the research activities of the Academy, assist in compilation of case laws, prepare summaries of judicial pronouncements, maintain research databases, and provide administrative support to training programs. The consolidated monthly remuneration for this position is Rs. 30,000/-.

Nature of Engagement

It is crucial for applicants to understand that these positions are contractual in nature and not regular appointments. Key terms of engagement include:

• Initial contract period of one year, which may be extended for one additional year based on satisfactory performance and institutional requirements
• Engagement is on an ad hoc basis with consolidated monthly pay, without any additional allowances or benefits typically associated with permanent government positions
• Selected candidates will not acquire the status of employees of Madras High Court or Tamil Nadu State Judicial Academy
• The engagement may be terminated at any time, even before completion of the one-year period, without prior notice
• No claim for regularization or permanent absorption can be made by the appointees
• The position does not carry any pension, gratuity, or other retirement benefits

Eligibility Criteria for Applicants

Educational Qualification:

• For Research Fellow: Master's degree in Law (LLM) from a university/institution recognized by the Bar Council of India. The degree must have been obtained through regular mode of education.
• For Research Assistant: Bachelor's degree in Law (LLB - 3 year or 5 year integrated course) from a Bar Council of India recognized university. Both 3-year LLB and 5-year integrated BA LLB/BBA LLB/B.Com LLB degrees are acceptable.

Age Limit: Candidates must be below 30 years of age as on 01.01.2026. Age relaxation is applicable as per Government of India rules for SC/ST/OBC/PWD and other reserved categories.

Desirable Qualifications:

• Prior research experience in legal field
• Published articles or papers in law journals
• Experience in legal drafting and case analysis
• Knowledge of legal databases like SCC Online, Manupatra, or similar platforms
• Proficiency in legal research methodologies
• Computer skills including MS Office, legal software applications

Selection Procedure

The selection process for both positions will be rigorous and merit-based, designed to identify candidates with exceptional legal knowledge and research aptitude. The process typically includes:

• Screening of Applications: Initial scrutiny based on eligibility criteria and submission of required documents
• Written Test: May include objective and subjective questions testing legal knowledge, analytical ability, and research aptitude
• Personal Interview: Assessment of candidate's subject knowledge, research skills, communication abilities, and overall suitability for the position
• Final selection will be based on cumulative performance in all stages

Application Process and Important Instructions

Interested and eligible candidates must apply online only through the official Madras High Court recruitment portal. The step-by-step application procedure is as follows:

1. Visit the official recruitment portal: https://mhc.tn.gov.in/recruitment_rf/login.php
2. Click on "New Registration" and provide required details including name, email ID, and mobile number
3. Verify email and mobile through OTP authentication
4. Login with generated credentials and complete the application form with accurate information
5. Upload scanned copies of:
   • Recent passport-size photograph (JPEG format, max 50KB)
   • Signature (JPEG format, max 30KB)
   • Educational certificates (PDF format)
   • Identity proof (Aadhaar card/Voter ID/Passport)
   • Caste certificate (if applicable)
6. Review all filled information carefully before final submission
7. Submit the application and take printout for future reference

Important Notes:

• No application fee is required
• Only online applications will be accepted; no offline or hard copy applications will be entertained
• Candidates are advised to keep their email ID and mobile number active throughout the recruitment process
• Multiple applications from the same candidate will be rejected
• Incomplete applications or applications with incorrect information will be summarily rejected

Important Dates to Remember

• Notification Release Date: 09th January 2026
• Online Application Start Date: 12th January 2026
• Last Date for Online Application: 20th February 2026 (11:59 PM)
• Last Date for Submission of Documents: As per official notification
• Exam/Interview Date: Will be notified separately to shortlisted candidates

Why Apply for This Recruitment?

Working with the Madras High Court and Tamil Nadu State Judicial Academy offers numerous professional advantages:

• Prestigious Platform: Gain experience working with one of India's oldest and most respected High Courts
• Professional Growth: Enhance your legal research skills and deepen your understanding of judicial processes
• Networking Opportunities: Interact with judges, senior advocates, and legal luminaries
• Research Exposure: Access to comprehensive legal libraries and databases
• Career Advancement: Experience that strengthens your profile for judicial services examinations, litigation practice, or academic positions
• Attractive Remuneration: Competitive consolidated pay without need for private practice

Documents Required

Candidates must keep the following documents ready in scanned format before starting the application:

• SSC/10th standard certificate (for date of birth proof)
• HSC/12th standard mark sheet
• Degree certificates (LLB/LLM as applicable)
• All semester/year mark sheets of law degree
• Bar Council enrollment certificate (if enrolled)
• Caste certificate (for reserved category candidates)
• PwD certificate (if applicable)
• Domicile certificate
• Recent passport-size photograph
• Signature specimen

Contact Information and Helpdesk

For queries related to the recruitment process, eligibility, or technical issues in online application, candidates may contact:

Tamil Nadu State Judicial Academy
High Court Buildings
Chennai - 600104
Official Website: www.mhc.tn.gov.in

Candidates are advised to regularly check the official website for updates, admit cards, results, and other important announcements related to this recruitment.

This recruitment represents an exceptional opportunity for young legal professionals to contribute to the judicial system while enhancing their own knowledge and skills. Interested candidates meeting the eligibility criteria should not miss this chance to be part of the Tamil Nadu State Judicial Academy.