Law and Contemporary Problems – Law Journal Guide for Researchers

Why Researchers Choose Law and Contemporary Problems for High-Impact Publications

Law and Contemporary Problems stands as a cornerstone in legal scholarship, published by Duke University School of Law since 1933. This quarterly journal delves into pressing legal issues intersecting with social, economic, and political challenges. Renowned for its interdisciplinary approach, it attracts contributions from leading academics, policymakers, and practitioners worldwide. The journal's commitment to timely analysis of contemporary problems ensures its relevance in evolving legal landscapes.

Scholars value Law and Contemporary Problems for its rigorous editorial process and influential readership, including judges, legislators, and international experts. With a focus on innovative solutions to real-world dilemmas, it bridges theory and practice effectively. The journal's open-access model since recent years enhances global accessibility, amplifying the reach of published works. Researchers often cite its role in shaping public policy debates, from civil rights to environmental law.

Publishing in Law and Contemporary Problems elevates a scholar's profile, offering opportunities for citation in high-stakes litigation and academic discourse. Its historical depth, spanning decades of landmark issues, provides a rich archive for comparative studies. For those navigating complex legal terrains, this journal serves as a vital platform to advance knowledge and influence change. Aspiring authors appreciate the supportive yet exacting review, fostering refined arguments that withstand scrutiny.

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Overview & History

Law and Contemporary Problems was founded in 1933 at Duke University School of Law to address urgent societal issues through legal lenses. Initially focused on the Great Depression's impacts, it has evolved to cover civil liberties, international law, and technological ethics. Over nine decades, it has published seminal works that inform Supreme Court decisions and legislative reforms. The journal maintains a tradition of symposium-style issues, gathering diverse viewpoints on single themes like climate justice or digital privacy.

Its editorial team, drawn from Duke's faculty and alumni, upholds standards of intellectual rigor. Historical volumes are digitized for easy access, preserving its legacy while adapting to modern publishing needs. This evolution underscores the journal's enduring mission to provoke thought and drive progress in law.

Scope and Disciplines Covered

The journal encompasses a broad spectrum of legal scholarship, emphasizing contemporary problems at the intersection of law and society. It welcomes articles on constitutional law, administrative policy, and global governance, prioritizing interdisciplinary insights from economics, sociology, and ethics.

Key Journal Metrics

Law and Contemporary Problems demonstrates strong academic influence through various indicators. While traditional impact factors for law journals are not always applicable, its citation rates reflect prestige in legal circles.

Indexing and Abstracting

The journal is widely indexed, ensuring visibility for authors. It appears in HeinOnline, Westlaw, LexisNexis, and Scopus, facilitating discoverability in legal and multidisciplinary databases. Social Sciences Citation Index inclusion bolsters its academic standing. Researchers can access abstracts via Google Scholar and JSTOR, with full texts available openly on the Duke Scholarship Repository.

Publication Model and Fees

Law and Contemporary Problems operates an open-access model, providing free online access to all articles without embargo. As a university-sponsored publication, it does not charge article processing fees (APCs) for authors. Subscription options exist for print editions, but digital content is freely available. This diamond open-access approach supports equitable dissemination of knowledge, aligning with Duke's commitment to public scholarship.

Submission Process and Guidelines

Submissions are accepted year-round via the online portal at the journal's official site. Authors should follow the Bluebook citation style, with manuscripts between 8,000 and 15,000 words. Unsolicited articles undergo double-blind peer review, typically taking 3-6 months. Guidelines emphasize originality, clarity, and relevance to contemporary issues. For detailed instructions, visit the journal homepage.

Editorial Board Highlights

The editorial board features distinguished scholars from Duke and beyond, including experts in constitutional law and policy analysis. Led by Editor-in-Chief Professor [Name, e.g., Sara Sun Beale], the team ensures balanced perspectives. Notable members include fellows from the American Bar Association and international law societies, bringing diverse expertise to the review process.

Why Publish in Law and Contemporary Problems?

Publishing here offers unparalleled exposure to influential audiences, enhancing career trajectories for legal academics. The journal's symposium format fosters collaborative discourse, while its open-access policy maximizes downloads and citations. Authors benefit from editorial feedback that sharpens arguments for broader impact. In a competitive field, alignment with this esteemed outlet signals excellence to tenure committees and funding bodies.

Comparison with Similar Journals

Researcher Tips for Successful Submission

• Align your work with current symposia themes announced on the official site.
• Craft a compelling abstract highlighting policy implications.
• Engage with recent issues for contextual relevance.
• Seek feedback from peers before submission to refine arguments.
• Monitor academic calendar for deadlines and events.

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