How to Write a Law Review Article
Law is a set of rules created by the state that forms a framework to ensure a peaceful society. If these rules are broken sanctions can be imposed. Law shapes politics, economics and history in a variety of ways and serves as a mediator between people. Law is divided into several branches such as contract law, criminal law, property law and administrative law. The philosophy of law is a complex subject that has inspired many books and debates. John Austin’s utilitarian definition of law states that it is “commands, backed by the threat of sanction, from a sovereign, to which men have a habit of obedience”. Natural lawyers such as Jean-Jacques Rousseau believe that laws reflect innate moral principles that are unchanging.
Legal systems vary in their structure and are influenced by a nation’s constitution, written or tacit, as well as its rights encoded therein. A government that keeps the peace, maintains the status quo, protects minorities against majorities, promotes social justice and provides for orderly social change is generally considered to be a ‘lawful’ regime. However, an authoritarian regime may keep the peace while oppressing minorities or its political opponents and imposes laws that are arbitrary.
The legal system of a nation can also be shaped by the customs and practices of its indigenous population. This includes cultural and religious traditions, which are often blended into modern legal systems. For example, Hindu and Islamic law influenced the development of common law in countries such as India, Malaysia and Singapore. The legal system of a country can also be shaped by the influence of other nations’ legal systems, for example by the adoption of civil law in eastern Asia and common law in Western Europe.
Writing a legal article can be a challenging task, especially if you are unfamiliar with the subject matter. A good way to begin is to look at the legal literature and identify gaps or unexplored areas. This can help to ensure that your article will be both relevant and interesting to readers. It’s also helpful to examine controversial issues, as these can generate interest from readers and increase your chances of getting published.
Once you’ve decided upon a topic, it’s important to develop an outline of your arguments and evidence in a logical and consistent manner. This will help you to stay on track while writing your essay and to present your argument clearly to your readers. It’s also important to provide a concluding paragraph that summarizes your main points and provides your readers with a sense of closure. Lastly, remember to proofread your work and make sure that it is clear and concise. This will help to prevent any errors that could potentially invalidate your argument or cause confusion for your readers. By following these tips, you can write a successful legal article. Good luck!