The target word "ACJM Full Form" refers to the Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate. The term primarily was used under the Indian judicial system to refer to a magistrate at the higher level and assisting CJM (Chief Judicial Magistrate) in dealing with criminal cases. An ACJM performs a huge role in upholding law and order as he provides vast oversight over many criminal cases that are highly severe. In this article, we will discuss who the ACJM is, his role, appointment process, powers, and what is the difference between him and the CJM.
Who is ACJM?
An Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate is a judicial officer in the Indian legal system, supplement to the Chief Judicial Magistrate. The ACJM works efficiently in conjunction with the CJM to resolve a vast criminal case while ensuring that the judicial process works effectively. They have the power to dispose of cases where there is a need for deeper insight from a judicial mind. They render fair and just judgments in consonance with the law.
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Role of ACJM
The role of the ACJM is diversified, and they undertake several duties for the proper administration of the judiciary. The key duties of the ACJM are as follows:
Adjudication of Criminal Cases: The ACJM would bear criminal cases within their jurisdiction that come up before them, such as preliminary matters as well as trials.
Their assistance to CJM: They assist the Chief Judicial Magistrate with the workload so that the dispute can be resolved more quickly.
Issuance of Warrants: The ACJM is authorized to issue warrants for arresting the accused, to search the premises of persons accused, and to issue summons to persons put on trial.
Recording Statements and Evidence: They have played a very important role in recording statements and evidence during the process of the trial so that the facts may be represented correctly.
Delivering Judgements: The ACJM has been charged with the duty of delivering judgements accordingly as per the facts of the case and pertinent provisions of law.
Oversight of Subordinate Courts: Further, they oversee the working of subordinate courts. This makes sure that case proceedings are conducted according to the legal procedures.
Procedure for Appointment of ACJM
The appointment of the post of ACJM is purely as per certain rules and regulations, which have been designed by the judiciary. Here is a detailed account of an ACJM's appointment:
Step 1. Eligibility Criteria:
The candidates must have an LLB degree and must have considerable experience in the field of law, preferably with the background of a judicial officer or legal practitioner.
Step 2. Judicial Service Examination:
Candidates normally need to clear the Judicial Service Examination carried out by the Public Service Commission or similar bodies of respective states.
Step 3. Promotion or Direct Appointment:
By experience and performance, a person may be promoted from the rank of Magistrate to that of Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate. Sometimes, qualification-based direct appointments are made.
Step 4. Approval of the High Court:
Appointment is usually made with the approval of the concerned High Court of the State so that qualified people only hold such positions.
Step 5. Training:
Newly promoted ACJMs may be enrolled in training courses so that they become familiar with judicial procedures and also case management.
Also read – AOR Full Form
Powers of ACJM
The powers conferred upon an Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate are as important as it is a magistracy that has the power to deliver judgements on important legal issues. These include the following:
Grant of Bail: The ACJM shall grant bail to accused persons in bailable and non-bailable offenses. The determination of granting bail depends on the seriousness of the case.
Judication of Crime: They can adjudicate crime that falls within their jurisdiction.
Summon and Warrant: The ACJM is authorized to give summons and warrants, including search warrants, which will be summoned into court for those people concerned.
Giving Judgment: They can give judgment in criminal cases with imprisonment within a limit prescribed by the law.
Preliminary Hearings: Holding preliminary hearings for cases and determining whether there is sufficient evidence to send them to trial.
Advantages and Disadvantages of ACJM
Like any other judicial position, the role of ACJM has its very own strengths and weaknesses.
Advantages:
Fair Justice: It ensures fair justice by providing additional judicial aid for criminal cases.
Reduces workload: Assists in reducing the workload of the CJM through shared mutual handling. The resolution of cases is much faster and quicker.
Specialization: Implements a specialized focus on complex criminal cases. Informed judgements can be delivered due to this.
Disadvantages:
Limited Authority: The ACJM has less authority than the CJM and seldom makes an independent decision to close a case.
Overlapping Roles: The ACJM can overlap with the roles and duties of the CJM at times.
Resource Utilization: Utilization of resources could be one more problem at the management level, particularly when located in such regions with scant judicial infrastructural setup.
Difference Between CJM and ACJM
CJM and ACJM are two important positions in the Indian judicial system. The difference between them lies in the fact that although both are very important and play a relevant role in the justice administration part of the Indian judicial system, still both positions work about different tasks and varying authorities.
AspectChief Judicial Magistrate (CJM)Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate (ACJM)PositionThe senior magistrate in the judicial hierarchySecond to the CJM, supporting in judicial mattersJurisdictionWider jurisdiction, including all major criminal casesHandles cases delegated by the CJMAuthorityHolds higher authority with the power to make final decisionsLimited authority, mostly assisting the CJMAppointmentDirectly appointed by the High Court or through promotionAppointed as a support role to the CJMResponsibilitiesOverall supervision of lower courts and judicial processesPrimarily focuses on handling specific cases as assigned
Conclusion
The role of the Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate (ACJM) is, therefore, important because it assists the CJM in case handling of criminal cases. With specific powers, responsibilities, and limitations, ACJM is more committed to the smooth functioning of the judiciary. With its unyielding involvement, the ACJM eliminates the possibility of law and order distortion with its indispensable contribution towards justice. Whoever is interested in understanding the legal and judicial framework in India should get an idea of the differences between CJM and ACJM.
ACJM Full form FAQs
1. What are ACJM's full form and CJM full form?
ACJM stands for Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate, and CJM stands for Chief Judicial Magistrate.
2. Who appoints the ACJM?
ACJM is appointed by the High Court of the respective state, according to guidelines of judicial service.
3. What is the role of the ACJM?
The ACJM assists the CJM in criminal cases, issuing warrants and delivering judgements.
4. Can ACJM grant bail in criminal cases?
Yes, the ACJM can provide bail in bailable and non-bailable offenses.
5. What is the difference between CJM and ACJM?
CJM is the top magistrate, but ACJM is subordinate to CJM because this helps CJM in judicial matters.
6. Does the ACJM deliver judgements on civil cases?
Generally, ACJMs deal with criminal cases but would receive civil matters if needed.
7. What is the role of the ACJM in the judiciary system?
The contribution of the ACJM is that it reduces the workload of the CJM and helps the case to get decided faster while guaranteeing a fair trial.
