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Student-led publication dedicated to advancing critical scholarship in criminal law, the wider justice system and policy.
About Us
About Us
Founded in 2025 by a group of aspiring lawyers at the Durham Law School, the Durham Criminal Law and Justice Review is a student-led legal publication committed to fostering intellectual inquiry and critical analysis in the fields of criminal law and justice. We aim to provide a dynamic platform for students, academics and professionals to engage with contemporary legal developments, policy challenges and theoretical debates that shape the justice sectors within the UK and beyond. Our mission is to bridge the gap between academic research and practical legal discourse, while promoting inclusivity, critical thought and a global perspective. Through our annual journal, events and collaborations, we strive to cultivate a scholarly community that encourages innovation, dialogue and excellence in legal writing.
How We Operate
The Durham Criminal Law and Justice Review runs on an annual cycle, with the academic year divided into structured phases to ensure high-quality output and inclusive participation.
Recruitment: Each Epiphany term, we open applications for a variety of roles. Students from all years and disciplines with a strong interest in law and justice are encouraged to apply. Recruitment is conducted transparently through a short application. The link to this form is advertised via our social channels.
Editorial Process: Accepted submissions go through a double-review process by internal editors and academic advisors, where available. We value analytical rigour, originality and relevance to contemporary legal and justice issues!
Our Annual Journal
Each Michaelmas term, we publish an annual journal for which submissions are accepted until a specified deadline announced on our social media channels. Each volume is structured into three core sections:
Criminal Law and Justice – This section features research on substantive and procedural criminal law, penal policy and broader questions of justice, accountability and reform.
Legal Theory and Socio-Legal Perspectives – Focused on jurisprudential analysis and interdisciplinary approaches, this section invites critical reflection on how law interacts with society, power structures and moral reasoning.
Case Notes and Legislative Commentaries – A concise, analytical section offering commentary on recent court decisions, legislative developments and their broader legal and social implications.
Upcoming Events
Panels, workshops and speaker sessions are on the horizon! Keep an eye on this space and follow us on our social media channels to stay updated on upcoming opportunities to engage with leading voices in law and justice.
Executive Committee Structure
The Executive Committee of the Durham Criminal Law and Justice Review operates on a yearly cycle. Each executive team serves for one academic year only and does not remain active in an official capacity thereafter. At the end of their serving period, the current executive is responsible for overseeing the recruitment and selection of the incoming team, ensuring a smooth and impartial transition of leadership. This approach promotes renewal, fresh ideas and wider student participation each year.
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