Cecily Zamora
Law review submissions typically involve a structured process that begins with the preparation of a scholarly legal article, often ranging from 20,000 to 30,000 words, though length requirements vary by journal. Authors must ensure their work adheres to the specific guidelines of the target law review, including formatting (e.g., Bluebook citation style), content originality, and relevance to current legal discourse. Submissions are usually made through an online platform, such as ExpressO or individual journal websites, and include a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and the manuscript itself. Law reviews often operate on an expedited or standard review timeline, with editors evaluating articles based on criteria like contribution to legal scholarship, clarity, and adherence to submission guidelines. Acceptance rates are highly competitive, reflecting the prestige and rigor of law review publications.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Format | Typically double-spaced, 12-point font (Times New Roman or similar), 1-inch margins. |
| Length | Generally 20,000–30,000 words (including footnotes), though varies by journal. |
| Citation Style | Bluebook citation format is standard for legal writing. |
| Cover Letter | Required; includes author’s name, contact info, article title, and brief abstract. |
| Anonymity | Often submitted "blind" (author’s name removed for peer review). |
| Abstract | A concise summary (200–300 words) of the article’s thesis and contributions. |
| Originality | Must be original, unpublished work with no simultaneous submissions. |
| Footnotes | Extensive, used for citations and substantive commentary. |
| Structure | Clear introduction, thesis statement, analysis, and conclusion. |
| Submission Platform | Often via Scholastica, ExpressO, or journal-specific online portals. |
| Deadlines | Varies by journal; typically fall or spring cycles. |
| Exclusivity | Most journals require exclusivity during the review period. |
| Author Qualifications | Not strictly required, but academic or professional credentials are common. |
| Revisions | Authors may be asked to revise based on editorial feedback. |
| Decision Timeline | Typically 3–6 months, depending on the journal’s process. |
| Publication Rights | Authors usually retain copyright but grant journals publication rights. |
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What You'll Learn
- Formatting Requirements: Margins, font, spacing, and page limits for law review articles
- Cover Letter: Essential elements and tone for a compelling submission letter
- Citation Style: Bluebook or other required citation formats for legal writing
- Abstract Guidelines: How to craft a concise, informative abstract for submissions
- Submission Platforms: Common platforms (e.g., Scholastica, ExpressO) and their processes
Formatting Requirements: Margins, font, spacing, and page limits for law review articles
When preparing a law review article for submission, adhering to specific formatting requirements is crucial to ensure your work is taken seriously and meets the standards of academic legal writing. One of the first considerations is margins. Most law reviews require one-inch margins on all sides of the page. This standardization ensures that the text is easily readable and aligns with the journal's layout preferences. Deviating from this requirement can make your article appear unprofessional or cause issues during the publication process.
Font selection is another critical aspect of formatting. The majority of law reviews specify a serif font, such as Times New Roman, in 12-point size for the main body of the text. Footnotes, however, are typically required to be in the same font but in 10-point size. Consistency in font style and size is essential, as it contributes to the overall readability and aesthetic of the article. Avoid using decorative or unconventional fonts, as they can distract from the content and may not be compatible with the journal's typesetting systems.
Spacing is equally important in law review submissions. Double-spacing is the standard for the main text, while footnotes are usually single-spaced with a double space between each note. This spacing convention ensures that the article is easy to read and annotate, which is particularly important for editors and reviewers who will be critically evaluating your work. Additionally, ensure that there is no extra spacing between paragraphs, as this can disrupt the flow of the text.
Page limits vary widely among law reviews, so it is essential to consult the specific guidelines of the journal to which you are submitting. Generally, articles range from 20 to 50 pages, including footnotes, but some journals may accept longer pieces. Exceeding the page limit without prior approval can result in automatic rejection, as it demonstrates a lack of attention to the journal's requirements. Conversely, being significantly under the suggested length may raise concerns about the depth and comprehensiveness of your analysis.
Finally, pay close attention to any additional formatting requirements, such as the placement of headings, block quotes, or tables. For instance, headings should be consistently formatted and used sparingly to break up the text logically. Block quotes are typically indented and single-spaced, with a smaller font size. Tables and figures should be labeled clearly and placed near their first mention in the text. By meticulously following these formatting guidelines, you enhance the professionalism and readability of your law review article, increasing its chances of acceptance.
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Cover Letter: Essential elements and tone for a compelling submission letter
A compelling cover letter for a law review submission is a critical component of the process, serving as the author’s first impression to the editorial board. It should be concise, professional, and tailored to the specific law review, demonstrating both the article’s significance and the author’s understanding of the journal’s focus. The tone must strike a balance between confidence and humility, showcasing the article’s value without appearing overly self-promotional. Below are the essential elements and tone guidelines for crafting an effective cover letter.
First, the cover letter should clearly state the title of the article and the author’s contact information, including name, affiliation, email, and phone number. It is also important to explicitly express the author’s interest in submitting the article for consideration in the specific law review. This personalization shows the author has researched the journal and believes the article aligns with its scope and mission. A generic letter is less likely to capture the editors’ attention, so specificity is key.
The second paragraph should succinctly summarize the article’s thesis, methodology, and contributions to legal scholarship. This is not the place for an exhaustive abstract but rather a focused overview that highlights why the article is timely, relevant, and deserving of publication. For example, the author might emphasize how the article addresses a gap in existing literature, responds to a recent legal development, or offers a novel framework for analysis. The goal is to pique the editors’ interest and demonstrate the article’s scholarly merit.
In the following paragraph, the author should briefly explain why the article is a good fit for the specific law review. This requires research into the journal’s past publications, thematic focus, and editorial priorities. Mentioning a recent article published by the journal and explaining how the submission complements or advances that discussion can be particularly effective. This step shows the author is engaged with the journal’s work and has thoughtfully considered its audience.
The tone of the cover letter should be professional, respectful, and confident. Avoid overly formal or stilted language, but maintain a polished and courteous demeanor. The author should express gratitude for the editors’ consideration while conveying a clear belief in the article’s value. Phrases such as “I believe this article would be a strong addition to your forthcoming volume” or “I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your journal’s distinguished scholarship” strike the right balance.
Finally, the cover letter should conclude with a polite expression of willingness to revise the article based on the editors’ feedback and a statement confirming that the submission is original and not under consideration elsewhere. This reassures the editors of the author’s professionalism and commitment to the submission process. By incorporating these essential elements and maintaining an appropriate tone, the cover letter can significantly enhance the likelihood of a successful law review submission.
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Citation Style: Bluebook or other required citation formats for legal writing
When preparing a law review submission, one of the most critical aspects to consider is the citation style, as it ensures clarity, consistency, and professionalism in legal writing. The Bluebook: A Uniform System of Citation is the most widely accepted and required citation format for legal writing in the United States. It provides detailed rules for citing cases, statutes, regulations, books, articles, and other legal sources. Adhering to the Bluebook is essential for law review submissions, as it demonstrates the author's attention to detail and familiarity with legal conventions. The Bluebook covers everything from the format of case citations (e.g., *Smith v. Jones, 123 U.S. 456 (2020)*) to the proper use of signals such as "see" and "cf." and the placement of footnotes or endnotes.
In addition to the Bluebook, some law reviews may specify their own citation guidelines or style sheets, which authors must follow alongside or in lieu of the Bluebook. These guidelines often address specific preferences, such as the use of short cites, the formatting of headings, or the treatment of internet sources. For example, a law review might require that all internet citations include the date of last access, even if the Bluebook does not explicitly mandate it. Authors should carefully review the submission guidelines of the target law review to ensure compliance with any unique requirements. Ignoring these specifics can lead to rejection or delays in the review process.
The Bluebook's rules can be intricate, particularly when dealing with less common sources or complex citation scenarios. For instance, citing foreign legal materials, unpublished opinions, or legislative history requires careful attention to the Bluebook's detailed provisions. Authors should consult the most recent edition of the Bluebook, as rules are periodically updated to reflect changes in legal publishing and technology. Online resources, such as the Bluebook's official website or citation generators, can also assist in navigating its complexities. However, reliance on automated tools should be supplemented with manual verification to ensure accuracy.
Consistency in citation style is paramount, as it enhances the readability and credibility of the submission. Authors should maintain uniformity in the use of quotation marks, italics, and punctuation, as prescribed by the Bluebook or the law review's guidelines. For example, titles of cases and statutes are typically italicized, while titles of articles and books are placed in quotation marks. Properly formatted citations also facilitate the work of editors and reviewers, who rely on consistent styling to assess the submission's quality and adherence to legal writing standards.
Finally, authors should be mindful of the role of citations in substantiating legal arguments. Citations are not merely decorative; they serve to support claims, acknowledge prior scholarship, and enable readers to locate sources. As such, every citation should be relevant, accurate, and properly formatted. Over-citation or under-citation can detract from the submission's impact, so authors should strike a balance between thoroughness and conciseness. By mastering the Bluebook or other required citation formats, authors can ensure that their law review submissions meet the highest standards of legal writing and scholarship.
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Abstract Guidelines: How to craft a concise, informative abstract for submissions
Crafting a concise and informative abstract is a critical component of a successful law review submission. The abstract serves as the first point of contact between your work and the editors, providing a snapshot of your article’s purpose, methodology, and contributions. To ensure your abstract effectively captures the essence of your submission, follow these detailed guidelines.
First, keep the abstract concise, typically between 150 to 300 words. This brevity forces you to distill your argument to its core elements, ensuring clarity and focus. Begin with a clear statement of the problem or issue your article addresses. For example, instead of broadly discussing "criminal justice reform," specify the particular aspect you are examining, such as "the impact of pretrial detention policies on recidivism rates." This precision immediately signals the scope and relevance of your work.
Second, outline your methodology and approach. Law review editors value rigorous analysis, so briefly describe how you tackle the issue. Whether you employ doctrinal analysis, empirical research, or comparative law, explain your methods in a straightforward manner. For instance, "This article analyzes Supreme Court decisions from the past decade to identify trends in Fourth Amendment jurisprudence" provides a clear roadmap of your approach. Avoid jargon or overly complex language that might obscure your methods.
Third, highlight the main contributions of your article. What does your work add to the existing legal scholarship? Are you proposing a new framework, challenging a widely held assumption, or filling a gap in the literature? For example, "This article argues that current interpretations of the Commerce Clause fail to account for modern economic realities and proposes a revised framework for analyzing interstate commerce." Clearly articulating your contributions helps editors assess the originality and significance of your submission.
Finally, end with a compelling closing statement that underscores the broader implications of your work. How does your article advance legal discourse or impact practice? For instance, "By reinterpreting the scope of federal power, this article offers practical guidance for lawmakers and litigators navigating complex regulatory issues." This final sentence should leave the reader with a clear understanding of why your article matters.
In summary, a well-crafted abstract for a law review submission must be concise, problem-focused, methodologically transparent, contribution-oriented, and impactful. By adhering to these guidelines, you increase the likelihood that your submission will capture the attention of editors and stand out in a competitive field.
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Submission Platforms: Common platforms (e.g., Scholastica, ExpressO) and their processes
When submitting articles to law reviews, authors typically use specialized platforms that streamline the submission process. Two of the most common platforms are Scholastica and ExpressO, each offering unique features and processes tailored to academic legal submissions. These platforms act as intermediaries between authors and law journals, simplifying the management of submissions, tracking, and communication.
Scholastica is a widely used platform known for its user-friendly interface and comprehensive submission management tools. Authors begin by creating an account and uploading their manuscript, along with any supplementary materials such as abstracts or cover letters. Scholastica allows authors to select multiple journals for simultaneous submission, saving time and effort. Once submitted, authors can track the status of their manuscripts in real-time, receiving updates as journals review their work. The platform also facilitates communication between authors and journal editors, ensuring a transparent and efficient process. Scholastica charges a fee per submission, which varies depending on the number of journals selected.
ExpressO, another popular platform, operates similarly but with distinct features. Authors upload their manuscript and supporting documents, then choose from a list of participating law reviews. ExpressO offers a "Submit to All" option, enabling authors to send their work to all eligible journals in its network with a single click. This feature is particularly useful for authors seeking broad exposure. Like Scholastica, ExpressO provides tracking tools and updates on submission status. However, ExpressO’s pricing model differs, typically charging a flat fee for unlimited submissions within a specific time frame. This can be cost-effective for authors submitting to multiple journals.
Both platforms require authors to adhere to journal-specific guidelines, such as word limits, formatting requirements, and submission deadlines. Authors must carefully review these guidelines before submitting to ensure their work meets the criteria. Additionally, both Scholastica and ExpressO offer resources and FAQs to assist authors in navigating the submission process. While these platforms simplify submissions, authors should remain proactive in monitoring their submissions and responding to journal communications.
In summary, Scholastica and ExpressO are essential tools for law review submissions, each offering unique advantages. Scholastica’s streamlined interface and real-time tracking make it a favorite among authors, while ExpressO’s "Submit to All" feature appeals to those seeking widespread distribution. Understanding the processes and features of these platforms is crucial for authors to effectively navigate the law review submission landscape. By leveraging these tools, authors can maximize their chances of publication and contribute to the legal academic community.
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Frequently asked questions
A law review submission typically includes a cover letter, the manuscript, and any supplementary materials. The manuscript should be double-spaced, use 12-point font (e.g., Times New Roman), and follow Bluebook citation style. Include a title page with the article’s title, author’s name, and contact information.
Most law reviews prefer articles between 20,000 and 30,000 words, including footnotes. However, some journals may accept shorter or longer pieces, so it’s important to check the specific guidelines of the target publication.
Yes, a cover letter is typically required. It should briefly introduce the article, explain its significance, and provide the author’s contact information. Some journals may also request a CV or bio.
It depends on the journal’s policy. Some law reviews require exclusive submissions, while others allow simultaneous submissions. Always check the submission guidelines and notify journals promptly if your article is accepted elsewhere.
