Law Review may conjure images of an elite journal publishing legal scholarship written by esteemed scholars and serving as an essential academic tool. But you might be surprised to know that Law Review also serves a more practical function: developing legal writing, researching, and editing skills useful in everyday practice for attorneys.
Many law schools offer Law Review programs, enabling students to write an article, known as a Note, that is published in their journal. Being part of Law Review can make your resume stand out to potential employers by showing your research and writing abilities essential for practicing law. Furthermore, Law Review experience offers you an invaluable networking opportunity with students and faculty members who share similar interests.
As an attorney, you will inevitably come across situations in which a law review article on a topic you know well has been written about by one or more legal review articles. Lawyers and judges frequently consult law reviews when confronted with unfamiliar legal issues; such articles provide assistance by outlining pertinent case law and secondary sources, providing analysis and interpretation, and providing comprehensive support through consistent citation.
Writing a law review article can be quite a tedious endeavor, requiring extensive legal analysis and the creation of persuasive arguments that stand up to scrutiny by professors and peers alike.
Furthermore, you must consider the time constraints involved with Law Review publication. Depending on its nature and publication deadlines, working towards strict deadlines can be extremely stressful when starting off in 2L year.
As well as these challenges, you will encounter various tasks to complete as an editor – be it writing an article from scratch, revising an existing piece, or correcting legal citations that keep appearing incorrectly – you’ll have ample opportunities to work alongside fellow student editors and rising 3Ls towards producing high-quality results.
Law review membership can be an exciting and fulfilling experience, yet not for everyone. If you’re curious to join, check with your school’s Law Review policies for details about the application process. Membership requires significant time commitment; however, the benefits gained through learning legal writing, research, and editing make the effort worth your while!
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