Join Law Review: Steps To Becoming A Member

Joining a law review is a highly competitive and prestigious opportunity for law students to develop their research, writing, and editing skills. It involves a significant time commitment, with members spending up to 10 hours per week on top of their regular coursework and other activities. The application process typically involves a writing competition, and membership is often contingent on academic performance, with only the top students in the class receiving an invitation to join. Law reviews are student-run journals that publish articles written by law professors, judges, and other legal professionals. They are highly regarded by employers, who see membership as an indication of strong writing skills, attention to detail, and work ethic.

Understand the application process

The application process for law review membership can be competitive and varies depending on the law school. Typically, students are invited to join the law review following their 1L year, with the top students in the class being invited to "grade on" without having to go through further hurdles. If you're not in the top 5-10% of your class, you can still "write on" to the law review through a writing competition.

The writing competition usually takes place at the end of the 1L year, after spring semester final exams. Students are given a packet of materials and are asked to complete various tasks, such as composing an article on a discrete legal topic, editing a poorly written article, or correcting legal citations.

To maximise your chances in the writing competition, it is recommended to read previous submissions, talk to current or former law review members, and carefully follow the instructions and cite your sources correctly.

In addition to the writing competition, some law schools also consider first-year grades and class rank when selecting members. It is important to research the specific requirements and procedures of your school's law review beforehand, as failing to follow instructions can easily disqualify applicants.

Transfer students may also be eligible for law review membership and typically go through a similar application process at the beginning of their 2L year.

Seek advice from current/former members

Seeking advice from current and former members of a law review is an important step in the process of applying for a position on a law review or journal. These individuals have first-hand experience of the application process and can offer valuable insights to applicants. Here are some reasons why seeking their advice is beneficial:

• Gaining First-Hand Insights: Current and former members have gone through the application process themselves and can offer a unique perspective. They can share their experiences, challenges, and strategies for navigating the process successfully. This can help applicants better understand what is expected of them and how to increase their chances of being selected.
• Understanding Expectations: Law review members can provide clarity on the expectations and responsibilities associated with being a member. They can explain the day-to-day tasks, time commitment required, and the skills needed to excel in the role. This information can help applicants determine if they are well-suited for the position and can meet the demands of being a member.
• Informational Interviews: Current and former members may be willing to conduct informational interviews, providing applicants with an opportunity to ask questions and gain personalized advice. These interviews can offer a deeper understanding of the law review's culture, work dynamics, and any specific requirements or traditions unique to that particular law review.
• Introduction to Other Members: By seeking advice, applicants can also gain introductions to other current and former members. Expanding their network within the law review community can be advantageous. These connections can provide support, mentorship, and additional insights into the law review experience.
• Preparation for the Application Process: Current and former members can guide applicants on how to best prepare for the application process. They can offer advice on what to include in a personal statement, how to showcase relevant skills and experiences, and any specific requirements or criteria that the law review looks for in applicants.

When seeking advice from current and former members of a law review, it is important to be respectful of their time and show genuine interest in their insights. Applicants should come prepared with specific questions and be open to learning from the experiences of those who have gone through the process before them. By doing so, they can gain valuable knowledge that can enhance their applications and increase their chances of being selected for a law review position.

Identify classmates also applying

Identifying your classmates who are also applying for law review can be a great resource for you. They can serve as a support group, which is particularly important to maintain during the law review application process. The process is a bit more manageable when you have companions who are also applying. Going through the application process together often helps the cohort of applicants come together as a team and even as a family.

You can also gain insight from your classmates who are also applying. They may be aware of certain requirements or procedures that you are not. They may also be able to provide first-hand experiences of the application process and what to expect.

Additionally, your classmates can serve as a great networking opportunity. Law review is a competitive process with limited spots. Your classmates may be your competition, but they could also be your colleagues in the future. Getting to know them and forming connections with them can be beneficial for your future career.

Finally, going through the process with a group of people can help keep you motivated and on track. They can help keep you accountable and ensure you are putting your best foot forward. They can also provide support and encouragement when the process gets tough.

So, how do you identify your classmates who are also applying for law review? Here are some tips:

• Start by attending law school events and networking with your peers. Ask around and find out who is considering applying.
• Join study groups or form your own with students who are interested in law review. This way, you can study together and also support each other through the application process.
• Utilize social media to your advantage. Many law schools have Facebook groups or LinkedIn groups where students can connect. You can use these platforms to reach out and find others who are applying.
• Don't be afraid to reach out to your peers directly and ask if they are applying. Chances are, they are just as nervous as you are and would be happy to connect.
• If you know of any classmates who have already been accepted into law review, ask them if they know of anyone currently going through the application process. They may be able to connect you with other applicants.

Remember, while your classmates can be a valuable resource, it is also important to maintain a healthy level of competition. Respect your peers' space and time, and do not share any confidential information or application strategies that could give you a competitive advantage.

Research application requirements

Law review is a student-run journal that publishes articles written by law professors, judges, and other legal professionals. It is a highly prestigious and coveted position, often sought after by top students. The application process for law review can be demanding and varies across schools. Here are some key requirements and considerations for the research application:

• Timing: The application process typically takes place towards the end of the 1L year, after spring semester final exams. This timing is strategic, weeding out less serious applicants and testing applicants' ability to work under tight deadlines.
• Grades: Academic performance is a crucial factor in the selection process. Many law reviews automatically accept applicants with excellent GPAs or class ranks. If you are not in the top 5-10% of your class, you will likely need to participate in a writing competition.
• Writing Competition: Also known as a 'write-on' competition, this is a common requirement for law review applications. Applicants may be asked to compose an article analysing a legal topic, edit a poorly written article, or correct a list of legal citations. The competition tests research, writing, and editing skills.
• Bluebook Proficiency: Bluebook is a style guide for legal citation, and proficiency in this area is essential for law review applicants. Some law reviews require applicants to demonstrate their Bluebook skills through a Bluebook exam or a production test as part of the writing competition.
• Personal Statement: Some law reviews, such as UCLA Law Review, require applicants to submit a personal statement as part of the application process. This provides an opportunity for students to showcase their unique contributions to the law review.
• Support and Advice: Applicants are advised to seek advice and insights from current and former law review members. They can provide valuable guidance on the application process and introduce applicants to other members. Additionally, connecting with classmates and friends who are also applying can provide a supportive network during this stressful process.
• Specific Requirements: Each law school and law review have unique requirements and procedures. It is crucial to research and understand the specific application requirements of your target law review, including any deadlines, submission guidelines, and evaluation criteria.

Prepare for the workload

Preparing for the workload of law review is essential, as it can be a significant commitment. Here are some tips to help you manage the workload and set yourself up for success:

Understand the Time Commitment

Firstly, recognise that being part of a law review will add to your already busy schedule. The average law student can expect to spend around 40 hours a week on their studies. Law review members can add another 10 to 20 hours per week, and those in leadership roles may spend an additional 10 to 20 hours on top of that. Therefore, it is crucial to consider the time you can realistically dedicate to law review and make any necessary adjustments to your schedule.

Develop Strong Time Management Skills

To balance your studies, law review commitments, and any other responsibilities, strong time management skills are essential. Create daily plans, prioritise tasks, and use time-tracking software to stay organised and ensure you are not overloading yourself. Remember that law review work tends to be cyclical, with lighter periods and heavier periods as publication deadlines approach. Plan ahead and be prepared for the busier times.

Familiarise Yourself with the Bluebook

The Bluebook, a style guide for legal citation, will become your best friend during law review. Get yourself a copy and familiarise yourself with its rules. Learning the ins and outs of legal citation will save you time and help you produce work that meets the required standards.

Seek Advice and Support

Don't be afraid to ask for help. Reach out to current and former law review members, who can offer valuable insights and advice. They can guide you through the application process and provide mentorship once you are on the law review. Additionally, connect with your classmates and friends who are also applying or are already part of a law review. They can provide support and help you navigate the challenges.

Stay Organised and Meet Deadlines

Law review work often involves meticulous tasks such as citation checking and editing. Stay organised by keeping track of your assignments and meeting deadlines. Remember that the law review process is competitive, and failing to follow instructions or missing deadlines can disqualify you.

Focus on Your Strengths and Interests

While law review can be demanding, it also provides opportunities to explore your interests and develop your strengths. You can choose a journal that aligns with your areas of interest and gain in-depth knowledge in those fields. Additionally, seek out leadership roles within the law review that play to your strengths, whether it's writing, editing, event planning, or something else.

In conclusion, preparing for the workload of law review involves a combination of time management, organisation, and seeking support. Remember that law review is a rewarding experience that will enhance your skills and open doors to new opportunities. By following these tips and staying committed, you can successfully manage the workload and make the most of your law review experience.

Frequently asked questions