Legal Writing Prof Blog
This one comes to us via our very good friend Raymond Ward at the (new) legal writer blog. The original post is from Concurring Opinions which does a great job compiling advice from various academics as well as providing sample cover letters. Among the advice is this:
Basics. Obviously, submissions must indicate author’s name and contact information (mailing address, phone, email) and article title. Unless submitted in an electronic format that transmits this information, the cover letter is the place.
Word Count. Many journals request stating the piece’s word count, including footnotes. In addition, many journals since 2005 have express word count limits or preferences, and request cover letter explanations for approaching or exceeding the guidance.
Brevity. Keep it short, usually a single page of three paragraphs, never more than two, and then only if justified by background research and context otherwise not evident from the piece.
Main Point. State the piece’s thesis, explain its uniqueness and importance.
Prior Work. Reference your prior works, when relevant, not necessarily journal prestige, although not holding this back when relevant. (Those without prior publications may need to explain a bit more why they are pursuing scholarship, perhaps even referencing relevant credentials.)
You. Mention brief biographical data only if relevant to the piece, such as your role in the relevant discourse (or the foregoing caveat for new scholars).
Style. The cover letter should be thoughtful and sober. You can try to entertain, but beware that attempted humor can backfire. Above all, avoid gimmicks, including strong sales pitches, exaggerated statements of importance or things unrelated to the piece.
Read the rest of the original advice column here.
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Posted by: Belstaff Jackets | November 26, 2011 at 01:28 AM