The strike, organised by Northern Ireland Public Service Alliance, said this is the ninth year in a row civil servants have received a below-inflation pay rise.
The union stated it had to take the “unprecedented decision” to lodge a judicial review over the “lack of consultation” on terms and conditions of the deal.
A pay rise of 1.25% will be given to most civil servants this year but this is below inflation, which stands at 2%.
Alison Millar, NIPSA general secretary, said: “Our members have clearly demonstrated their anger and are resolute in seeking to ensure that the employer re-opens the pay negotiations for 2018-19 and properly negotiates with NIPSA on both the issue of pay and other terms and conditions.
“NIPSA has had to take the unprecedented decision to lodge a judicial review on the lack of consultation on terms and conditions issues regarding promotion opportunities within the NICS. NIPSA members are clear in seeking to defend their pay, terms and conditions. They are saying loud and clear – enough is enough.”