Harvard Law Review

The Harvard Law Review is a prestigious and influential student-edited legal journal associated with Harvard Law School. It’s among the most cited legal publications in the world and is a leading forum for scholarly articles, essays, and discussions on various legal topics.

Founded in 1887, the Harvard Law Review is run entirely by students of Harvard Law School. Each year, the editorial board is composed of selected students who manage the review’s publication process, including selecting articles, editing submissions, and overseeing the publication’s content.

The journal covers a broad range of legal issues, including constitutional law, criminal law, administrative law, international law, and more. Its articles are written by legal scholars, practitioners, judges, and students, offering in-depth analysis and insights into complex legal matters.

Having an article published in the Harvard Law Review is considered a significant achievement for legal scholars and academics due to its esteemed reputation within the legal community. Its impact and influence extend beyond academia, often shaping legal debates and discussions in the broader society.

Is Harvard Law really good?

Yes, Harvard Law School is widely regarded as one of the top law schools in the world. It’s known for its rigorous academic programs, esteemed faculty, diverse student body, and influential alumni network. Here are a few reasons why Harvard Law School is highly esteemed:

1. Academic Excellence: The school offers a comprehensive and challenging curriculum, providing students with a strong foundation in legal theory, critical thinking, and practical skills.
2. Faculty Expertise: Harvard Law boasts a faculty of renowned legal scholars, practitioners, and experts across various fields of law, offering students access to exceptional mentorship and guidance.
3. Resources and Opportunities: The school provides extensive resources, including libraries, research centers, clinics, and international programs, offering students numerous opportunities for hands-on experience and specialized study.
4. Prestige and Network: Graduates of Harvard Law School benefit from its global reputation, which opens doors to prestigious job opportunities, clerkships, and positions in academia, government, and private practice. The alumni network is influential and expansive.
5. Diversity and Community: The student body at Harvard Law is diverse in terms of backgrounds, experiences, and interests, fostering a rich and dynamic learning environment.

However, the “best” law school for an individual can depend on various factors, including personal goals, career aspirations, location preferences, and financial considerations. While Harvard Law School is highly regarded, other law schools might also offer excellent programs that align better with specific needs or interests. Prospective law students often consider a variety of factors when choosing a law school, including faculty, programs, location, specialization, and overall fit with their career goals.

How do I join the Harvard Law Review?

Joining the Harvard Law Review is a competitive process that involves a combination of academic achievement, writing ability, and participation in a writing competition. Here’s a general overview of the steps typically involved in joining the Harvard Law Review:

1. Eligibility: To be eligible to join the Harvard Law Review, you typically need to be a current student at Harvard Law School.
2. Write-On Competition: The primary method for selection involves a writing competition held at the end of the first year of law school. Students are provided with a set of materials (case law, statutes, etc.) and asked to write a persuasive legal argument or analysis. This writing competition typically occurs during the summer after the first year.
3. Academic Achievement: While the writing competition is a crucial part of the selection process, academic performance in law school, particularly during the first year, also plays a significant role. Strong grades can enhance your chances of being selected.
4. Selection Process: Based on the writing competition submissions and academic performance, a selection committee consisting of current Harvard Law Review editors evaluates and selects candidates to join the journal. The selection process is highly competitive, and only a limited number of students are chosen.
5. Membership Offer: Students who are selected for membership to the Harvard Law Review are offered positions as editors or staff members, depending on the volume of the journal and the specific roles available.

It’s important to note that while the write-on competition is the primary method for joining the Harvard Law Review, there may be variations or additional opportunities for selection based on exceptional circumstances or transfer students. The process might also evolve, so it’s advisable to seek guidance and information directly from the Harvard Law Review or the law school’s administration for the most current details and requirements.

Is Harvard Law number 1?

Harvard Law School consistently ranks among the top law schools globally, but the notion of being “number 1” can vary based on different criteria and perspectives. Various organizations and publications release rankings of law schools based on different methodologies, including faculty quality, academic programs, student outcomes, and more.

Harvard Law School is often in the top tier of these rankings due to its academic reputation, faculty expertise, resources, and alumni success. However, other law schools like Yale Law School, Stanford Law School, and others are also highly regarded and frequently occupy top positions in different ranking lists.

The perception of what makes a law school “number 1” can differ based on individual preferences, career goals, and specific areas of focus within the legal field. Therefore, while Harvard Law School is esteemed and prestigious, the concept of a singular “number 1” law school might be subjective and can vary depending on the criteria used to assess it. Prospective law students often consider various factors when choosing a law school, including faculty, programs, location, career opportunities, and personal fit.

Was Obama head of the Harvard Law Review?

Yes, Barack Obama served as the President of the Harvard Law Review during his time at Harvard Law School. In 1990, he was elected as the first Black president of the Harvard Law Review, a prestigious student-run legal journal associated with Harvard Law School. His election to this position was notable and significant, marking a historic achievement at the institution.

During his tenure as president of the Harvard Law Review, Obama garnered attention for his leadership, intellectual contributions, and editorial oversight of the publication. His role at the Law Review was influential and served as a significant milestone in his academic and legal career before he embarked on his subsequent political journey.

Is Harvard Law better than Oxford law?

Comparing Harvard Law School and the law program at the University of Oxford involves considering various factors, and determining which is “better” can depend on individual preferences, career goals, and specific areas of focus within the legal field.

Here are some points to consider:

1. Reputation: Harvard Law School and the University of Oxford both have exceptional reputations in the legal world. Harvard is known for its global recognition and influential alumni network, while Oxford carries a strong historical legacy and international reputation for academic excellence.
2. Teaching Style and Structure: The teaching styles and structures at Harvard Law School and Oxford can differ. Harvard follows the American legal education system with a strong focus on classroom interaction, practical training, and extensive resources. Oxford, on the other hand, follows the British system, which often involves more independent study, tutorial-based learning, and emphasis on legal theory.
3. Resources and Opportunities: Harvard Law School offers extensive resources, including clinics, research centers, and access to legal networks in the U.S. and globally. Oxford provides access to its renowned libraries, research facilities, and a diverse academic environment.
4. Location and Networks: The location of the institution can impact opportunities and networks. Harvard Law School is located in the United States, offering proximity to various legal markets and opportunities in American law. Oxford’s location in the United Kingdom provides exposure to the British legal system and connections in Europe.
5. Admission and Program Structure: The admission processes and program structures differ between the two institutions. Harvard Law School is a standalone graduate school focusing solely on law, while at Oxford, law is often studied as part of an undergraduate or postgraduate degree within the broader university.

Determining which is “better” between Harvard Law School and Oxford’s law program can be subjective and might depend on individual preferences, career aspirations, and the specific focus or opportunities each institution offers in the legal field. Both institutions are highly esteemed and can provide excellent legal education, but the choice often comes down to personal fit, goals, and the type of legal education experience desired.

Why is Harvard law so popular?

Harvard Law School enjoys considerable popularity and acclaim for several reasons:

1. Academic Excellence: Harvard Law School is known for its rigorous academic programs and high standards of legal education. It offers a comprehensive curriculum taught by esteemed faculty members, providing students with a strong foundation in legal theory, critical thinking, and practical skills.
2. Prestige and Reputation: Harvard Law School has a long history and a global reputation for excellence in legal education. Its name carries significant weight in the legal field and beyond, attracting top-tier faculty, students, and employers.
3. Faculty Expertise: The faculty at Harvard Law includes distinguished legal scholars, practitioners, and experts across various fields of law. Students benefit from access to renowned faculty members who often contribute groundbreaking research and publications.
4. Resources and Opportunities: The school provides extensive resources, including libraries, research centers, clinics, and international programs. These resources offer students numerous opportunities for hands-on experience, specialized study, and access to networks within the legal profession.
5. Alumni Network: Harvard Law School boasts an influential and extensive alumni network. Graduates of the institution hold prominent positions in various sectors, including law firms, academia, government, business, and public service. This network can provide valuable connections and opportunities for current students and graduates.
6. Diverse Community: The student body at Harvard Law is diverse in terms of backgrounds, experiences, and interests. This diversity fosters a rich and dynamic learning environment, encouraging intellectual exchange and collaboration.
7. Career Opportunities: Graduates of Harvard Law School often have access to prestigious job opportunities, clerkships, and positions in top law firms, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and academia. The school’s reputation and network can open doors to a wide range of career paths.

The combination of academic excellence, a strong reputation, exceptional faculty, extensive resources, and career prospects contributes to Harvard Law School’s popularity and continued status as one of the most prestigious and sought-after law schools in the world.

How much does Harvard Law pay?

Salaries at Harvard Law School can vary significantly based on several factors, including the specific role, level of experience, and the department or position within the institution. Here are some approximate salary ranges for certain positions at Harvard Law School as of my last update:

1. Faculty: Law professors at Harvard Law School can have varying salaries based on their seniority, tenure status, and other factors. Tenured professors at top law schools like Harvard can earn substantial salaries, often in the range of hundreds of thousands of dollars per year.
2. Administrative and Staff Positions: Salaries for administrative and staff positions can vary widely depending on the role, responsibilities, and seniority within the organization. Administrative staff members can earn salaries ranging from approximately $40,000 to $100,000 or more annually, depending on the position.
3. Research Assistants and Fellows: Research assistants and fellows at Harvard Law School typically receive compensation based on the terms of their appointment or fellowship, which can range from stipends to hourly wages or annual salaries. These positions often vary in compensation based on the specific research project and funding source.
4. Student Employment: Students working part-time jobs or in various roles within the law school may receive hourly wages or stipends. These wages can range from minimum wage to higher rates, depending on the job and responsibilities.

Please note that these salary ranges are approximate and can change over time due to factors such as budgetary considerations, market trends, and institutional policies. Additionally, salaries can vary between different departments within Harvard Law School and may also differ from salaries at other law schools or academic institutions.

Is it really hard to get into Harvard Law?

Yes, getting into Harvard Law School is highly competitive due to its prestigious reputation, rigorous academic standards, and the high caliber of applicants. The school receives a large number of applications each year, and the acceptance rate is quite low, typically ranging from 10% to 15% or even lower in some years.

Several factors contribute to the difficulty of gaining admission to Harvard Law School:

1. High Academic Standards: Harvard Law seeks applicants with outstanding academic records, often looking for candidates with exceptional undergraduate GPAs and LSAT (Law School Admission Test) scores.
2. Holistic Application Review: While academic performance is crucial, Harvard Law School also considers various other factors in the admissions process, including personal statements, letters of recommendation, extracurricular activities, work experience, diversity of experiences, and contributions to the community.
3. Competitive Applicant Pool: Harvard Law attracts applicants from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and achievements. Many applicants have impressive accomplishments, making the competition intense.
4. Limited Number of Seats: The law school has a limited number of available spots for each incoming class, contributing to the selectivity of the admissions process.
5. Strong Reputation and Alumni Network: Harvard Law School’s reputation and the opportunities it offers its graduates attract top-tier candidates from around the world, further intensifying the competition for admission.

Due to these factors, gaining admission to Harvard Law School is challenging, and applicants often need a combination of exceptional academic credentials, a compelling application, and unique experiences to stand out in the highly competitive applicant pool.

How much does it cost for Harvard Law?

The cost of attending Harvard Law School includes tuition, fees, and estimated living expenses. Please note that these figures can change over time and might have increased since then. Here’s an approximate breakdown of costs:

1. Tuition: The tuition for Harvard Law School for the academic year 2021-2022 was around $67,081 per year for full-time students. This cost typically increases slightly each year.
2. Fees: Additional fees, such as health insurance, student services fees, and other miscellaneous charges, can add several thousand dollars to the total cost. These fees were approximately $3,226 for the academic year 2021-2022.
3. Living Expenses: Estimated living expenses, including housing, food, books, transportation, and personal expenses, can vary depending on individual circumstances and choices. Harvard Law estimates these expenses to be around $25,000 to $30,000 per year.

Therefore, the total cost of attending Harvard Law School for one academic year (including tuition, fees, and living expenses) can amount to around $95,000 to $100,000 or more.

It’s important to note that these figures are approximate and can vary for each student based on factors like residency status, housing choices, lifestyle, and individual spending habits. Additionally, these costs might have increased in subsequent academic years. Financial aid, scholarships, and grants are available to eligible students to help offset these expenses.

Is Harvard Law better than Cambridge?

Determining whether Harvard Law School or the University of Cambridge’s law program is “better” can depend on various factors and individual perspectives. Both institutions have distinguished reputations and offer exceptional legal education, but they differ in certain aspects:

1. Teaching Style and Structure: Harvard Law School follows the American legal education system, emphasizing interactive classroom discussions, practical skills, and a broad range of courses. The University of Cambridge typically follows the British system with a focus on independent study, tutorial-based learning, and legal theory.
2. Reputation and Global Influence: Harvard Law School has a global reputation and extensive recognition, particularly in the United States and internationally. The University of Cambridge also carries a prestigious reputation, with its law program consistently ranked among the top in the world.
3. Faculty Expertise and Research: Both institutions have renowned faculty members and scholars in various legal fields. Harvard’s faculty includes influential legal scholars, practitioners, and experts, while Cambridge has esteemed faculty contributing to legal research and publications.
4. Resources and Opportunities: Harvard Law School offers extensive resources, including libraries, research centers, clinics, and global programs. The University of Cambridge provides access to its renowned libraries, research facilities, and a diverse academic environment.
5. Location and Networks: Harvard Law School is situated in the United States, offering proximity to various legal markets and opportunities in American law. The University of Cambridge is located in the United Kingdom, providing exposure to the British legal system and connections in Europe.

Determining which institution is “better” can depend on individual preferences, career goals, and the type of legal education experience desired. Both Harvard Law School and the University of Cambridge offer exceptional legal education but might cater to different academic approaches, opportunities, and networks. Prospective law students often consider various factors when choosing a law school, including faculty, programs, location, career prospects, and personal fit.

Do top law firms only hire from Harvard?

Top law firms often recruit from a variety of law schools, not solely from Harvard Law School. While Harvard Law graduates are highly sought after by prestigious law firms due to the school’s reputation and academic excellence, these firms typically hire from a range of top law schools across the country.

Several law schools, including Yale Law School, Stanford Law School, Columbia Law School, the University of Chicago Law School, and others, are also highly regarded by top law firms. These schools produce graduates who are competitive candidates for positions at prestigious law firms.

Law firms often consider various factors when hiring, including academic performance, law school reputation, relevant experience, extracurricular activities, personal achievements, and fit with the firm’s culture and practice areas.

While attending a top law school can enhance a candidate’s prospects for positions at prestigious law firms, success in securing a position also depends on individual qualifications, networking, internships, clerkships, and other experiences that showcase a candidate’s capabilities and potential contributions to the firm.

What law school is better than Harvard?

Determining a law school as “better” than Harvard Law School can be subjective and often depends on individual preferences, career goals, and specific areas of focus within the legal field. Harvard Law School is consistently ranked among the top law schools globally, and opinions on schools that might be considered “better” can vary based on different criteria and perspectives.

However, several law schools are highly esteemed and are often regarded as on par with or sometimes preferred over Harvard Law School in specific areas or for certain specialties. Some of these institutions include:

1. Yale Law School: Yale Law School is highly regarded for its academic rigor, small class sizes, and emphasis on legal theory. It’s often ranked alongside Harvard Law School at the top of law school rankings.
2. Stanford Law School: Stanford Law School is known for its innovative approach to legal education, strong interdisciplinary programs, and emphasis on technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
3. Columbia Law School: Columbia Law School is recognized for its extensive curriculum, strong faculty, and prime location in New York City, offering access to various legal opportunities.
4. University of Chicago Law School: Known for its intellectual rigor, strong focus on legal theory, and influential faculty members, the University of Chicago Law School is often highly regarded.
5. NYU School of Law: NYU School of Law has a strong reputation for its diverse programs, global focus, and robust clinical and experiential learning opportunities.

Each of these law schools has its unique strengths, programs, and areas of specialization, which might align better with specific interests, career goals, or academic preferences. While Harvard Law School remains one of the top-ranked law schools globally, the perception of which law school is “better” can vary based on individual priorities and perspectives within the legal field.

Which president went to Harvard Law?

Several U.S. Presidents attended Harvard Law School. Here are some notable Presidents who studied at Harvard Law:

1. Barack Obama: Barack Obama is one of the most recent U.S. Presidents to have attended Harvard Law School. He graduated from Harvard Law in 1991 and later became the 44th President of the United States.
2. Rutherford B. Hayes: Rutherford B. Hayes, the 19th President of the United States, graduated from Harvard Law School in 1845.
3. Franklin D. Roosevelt: Franklin D. Roosevelt, the 32nd President, attended Columbia Law School but transferred to and completed his law degree at Harvard Law School in 1907.
4. John F. Kennedy: John F. Kennedy, the 35th President, attended both Princeton University and Harvard University, where he studied at Harvard Law School for a brief period before leaving due to health issues.

These Presidents are among the notable alumni of Harvard Law School who pursued legal education at the institution before their respective presidential tenures.

Who wrote the Harvard Law Review?

The Harvard Law Review is a student-run organization at Harvard Law School, and its content is primarily authored by a diverse group of law students. As a student-edited legal journal, the Harvard Law Review publishes articles, essays, and scholarly pieces written by law students, legal scholars, practitioners, judges, and occasionally prominent figures in the legal field.

The editorial board of the Harvard Law Review, consisting entirely of Harvard Law School students, oversees the publication process, including the selection of articles, editing, and the overall content of each issue. The board typically comprises selected law students who volunteer for editorial positions, such as editors, articles editors, and various staff members.

Contributors to the Harvard Law Review submit their scholarly work for consideration, and the editorial board evaluates and selects pieces based on their quality, relevance, and contribution to legal scholarship. The journal aims to publish articles that offer original insights, in-depth analysis, and significant contributions to various areas of law.

The Harvard Law Review’s content reflects the collective efforts of the law students who serve on its editorial board and contribute to its publication, making it a respected forum for legal scholarship within the academic and legal community.

Is MIT better than Harvard?

Comparing MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) and Harvard University involves considering various factors and can depend on individual preferences, academic pursuits, and career goals.

Both MIT and Harvard are globally renowned institutions, but they have distinct strengths and areas of focus:

1. Specialties: MIT is highly esteemed for its emphasis on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields, particularly in engineering, computer science, and the physical sciences. Harvard is known for its broad range of disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, law, business, and various professional programs.
2. Culture and Environment: MIT has a strong focus on innovation, research, and practical application of knowledge. Its culture is often characterized by a collaborative and hands-on approach to problem-solving. Harvard, while also emphasizing research and academic rigor, has a diverse array of academic disciplines and a reputation for intellectual exploration and academic excellence across multiple fields.
3. Location and Campus: MIT is located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, alongside Harvard, creating a vibrant academic environment in the Boston area. Each campus has its distinct character and resources.
4. Admissions and Programs: Both institutions are highly selective, and the admissions criteria can vary based on the program and department. MIT and Harvard offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, each with its unique strengths and resources.

Determining which institution is “better” can depend on individual interests, academic pursuits, and career objectives. For example, if one’s interest lies in STEM fields, MIT might be an excellent fit due to its renowned programs in those areas. Conversely, Harvard’s diverse academic offerings and multidisciplinary approach might be more appealing for someone seeking a broad-based education across various disciplines.

Ultimately, both MIT and Harvard are world-class institutions, and the perception of which is “better” can vary based on individual goals and the specific field of study or research interest. Prospective students often consider multiple factors, including academic programs, faculty expertise, campus culture, and personal fit when choosing between these prestigious institutions.

Is Stanford better than Harvard?

Determining whether Stanford University is “better” than Harvard University involves considering various factors, and the answer can depend on individual preferences, academic pursuits, and career goals.

Both Stanford and Harvard are prestigious institutions with distinguished reputations, but they have distinct strengths:

1. Academic Focus: Stanford University is highly regarded for its strength in innovation, technology, engineering, entrepreneurship, and interdisciplinary studies. Harvard University offers a wide array of academic disciplines across humanities, social sciences, business, law, and other fields.
2. Culture and Environment: Stanford’s culture often emphasizes innovation, collaboration, and a pioneering spirit, particularly in the fields of technology and entrepreneurship. Harvard has a diverse academic environment known for its intellectual exploration, academic excellence, and historical legacy.
3. Location: Stanford University is situated in Silicon Valley, providing proximity to technology companies, venture capital, and a hub for innovation. Harvard University is located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, alongside other prestigious universities, creating a vibrant academic atmosphere.
4. Admissions and Programs: Both institutions are highly selective and offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. The admissions criteria and program offerings can vary based on the department and field of study.

Determining which institution is “better” can be subjective and often depends on individual interests, career objectives, and the specific field of study. For instance, if one’s interests lie in technology, entrepreneurship, or certain STEM fields, Stanford’s strengths in those areas might be particularly appealing. On the other hand, Harvard’s diverse academic offerings and multidisciplinary approach might be preferred by those seeking a broad-based education across various disciplines.

Both Stanford University and Harvard University are esteemed institutions, and the perception of which is “better” can vary based on individual goals and preferences within the academic and professional realms. Prospective students often consider factors such as academic programs, faculty expertise, campus culture, and personal fit when choosing between these prestigious universities.

Why did Harvard Law drop?

There hasn’t been any significant documented decline or drop in the overall reputation or ranking of Harvard Law School. Harvard Law remains one of the most prestigious and highly regarded law schools globally, known for its academic excellence, influential faculty, and esteemed alumni network.

However, perceptions of academic institutions, including law schools, can vary over time due to a range of factors, such as changes in leadership, shifts in academic or research focus, alterations in educational approaches, or fluctuations in ranking methodologies used by different publications.

It’s essential to note that minor fluctuations in rankings or changes in public perception are relatively common among highly ranked institutions. Nevertheless, Harvard Law School’s status as a leading law school with a strong reputation for academic excellence and influential contributions to the legal field remains widely recognized.

For the most current and accurate information about Harvard Law School’s standing or any developments regarding its programs or reputation, it’s advisable to refer to updated rankings, official publications, or announcements from the institution itself or reputable sources within the field of legal education.

Why did Harvard Law drop in rankings?

I don’t have specific information about Harvard Law School experiencing a significant drop in rankings during that time. However, fluctuations in rankings among top-tier institutions like Harvard Law School can occur due to various factors, and these shifts might not necessarily indicate a decline in the quality of the institution.

Rankings of academic institutions, including law schools, are determined by different methodologies used by various publications or organizations. These methodologies can include factors such as academic reputation, faculty-to-student ratio, research output, citations, diversity, employment outcomes, and more.

Potential reasons for fluctuations or changes in rankings of law schools, including Harvard Law, might include:

1. Changes in Methodologies: Alterations in the criteria or weighting of factors used by ranking organizations can lead to fluctuations in rankings, affecting how institutions are assessed.
2. Competition and Other Institutions: Changes in the performance of other law schools, particularly those ranked near the top, can influence the relative positioning of institutions in rankings.
3. Programmatic Changes: Changes in programs, faculty, research focus, or educational approaches within the law school might impact its ranking over time.
4. Data Reporting or Collection: Issues related to data reporting, discrepancies, or changes in data collection methods by institutions or ranking bodies can affect rankings.

It’s important to note that slight fluctuations in rankings are relatively common among top-ranked institutions and might not necessarily reflect a significant decline in the quality or standing of the institution. Institutions like Harvard Law School often maintain a strong reputation for academic excellence, and rankings can vary from one publication to another based on their respective methodologies.

For the most current and accurate information regarding Harvard Law School’s rankings or any developments related to its programs and reputation, it’s advisable to refer to updated rankings from reputable sources and official announcements from the institution itself.