What is Law Review?

Law Review is a student-run publication that is published twice annually. It features scholarly legal articles authored by judges, professors, practitioners, and current California Western students. The Executive Board carefully selects articles from hundreds of submissions, and the Editorial Board refines these articles through textual edits, source verification, and Bluebook citation formatting.

Law Review offers members the opportunity to fulfill their Scholarly Writing requirement through the Journal’s student writing program, with the possibility of having their papers published.

As a student-run organization, Law Review also provides members with the opportunity to take on leadership roles by serving on the Executive Board.

What Does Law Review Membership Entail?

Joining the California Western Law Review requires a two-year commitment. Students apply at the end of their 1L year and begin their membership in their 2L year. During their first year, associate writers focus on cite-checking, which involves verifying that sources support the author’s claims and editing footnotes for grammar, style, and proper Bluebook formatting. Additionally, first-year associate writers complete a Comment on a topic of their choice, allowing them to explore any area of law that interests them.

In the spring of their first year as associate writers, members have the opportunity to apply for various executive and senior board positions for their 3L year. This is a significant chance to step into leadership roles within the Law Review and shape its direction and influence.

Available positions include roles such as Editor-in-Chief and other senior editorial and administrative roles. Responsibilities for these positions include overseeing the editorial process, managing the review of submissions, and coordinating with faculty and external contributors. As board members, individuals play a crucial role in guiding the Law Review’s mission, mentoring junior members, and ensuring the publication’s quality and integrity. This experience provides a great opportunity to develop leadership and organizational skills, enhance resumes, and contribute to the Law Review’s continued success. Members who choose not to apply for board positions transition from associate writer to associate editor during their second year.

To earn credit as an associate writer or associate editor, members complete 42.5 hours of work per semester, which averages to about 3 hours per week, earning 1 credit per semester. Board members can earn 2 or 3 credits per semester, depending on the position, which requires completing 85 hours per semester, averaging 6 hours per week. Since all work is independent, members can schedule it around their academic commitments.

Why Join Law Review?

Joining the California Western Law Review offers a unique opportunity to engage in a respected academic tradition that is highly valued by both the California Western School of Law and the broader legal community. As a member, you’ll participate in the selection and refinement of innovative legal scholarship, which could eventually be cited in legal briefs or judicial opinions.

By joining Law Review, you’ll have the chance to work closely with faculty and administration, gaining valuable insights into the academic process and building strong relationships with your professors. It’s also a great way to connect with fellow students and create a supportive network while contributing to meaningful work. When you write a Comment on a specific area of law, you will develop expertise in that field with guidance from a faculty advisor. This experience will sharpen your editorial and analytical skills, and if your Comment gets published, it’s a significant achievement—especially if you’re considering a judicial clerkship or a career in academia.

Law Review is also a standout addition to your résumé. Employers see it as a mark of strong writing skills, attention to detail, and a solid work ethic. But more than just a résumé booster, it’s an experience that offers personal and professional growth, making it a deeply rewarding part of your law school journey.