Complaint Handling Procedure

1. Purpose

Journal of Lex et Justitia is committed to maintaining high standards of academic integrity, fairness, and accountability in all aspects of the editorial and publication process. This procedure outlines the mechanisms for receiving, reviewing, investigating, and resolving complaints in a timely and impartial manner.

2. Scope of Complaints

Complaints may relate to, but are not limited to:

  • Editorial decisions or delays in the peer review process

  • Allegations of plagiarism, data falsification, or research misconduct

  • Conflicts of interest involving authors, reviewers, or editors

  • Ethical concerns related to legal research or judicial integrity

  • Errors or concerns regarding published articles

  • Unprofessional or biased conduct by editorial staff or reviewers

3. Submission of Complaints

  • Complaints must be submitted in writing through the journal’s official communication channel.

  • The complaint should include:

    • Name and contact details of the complainant

    • A clear and detailed description of the complaint

    • Supporting evidence or documentation, where available

  • Anonymous complaints may be considered if sufficient and credible evidence is provided.

4. Acknowledgement and Initial Assessment

  • The journal acknowledges receipt of the complaint within a reasonable timeframe.

  • The Editor-in-Chief or a designated editor conducts an initial assessment to determine:

    • Whether the complaint falls within the journal’s scope

    • Whether sufficient information has been provided to proceed

5. Investigation Process

  • If the complaint is deemed valid, a formal investigation is initiated.

  • The investigation may involve:

    • Consultation with editorial board members or legal experts

    • Requesting explanations or responses from relevant parties

    • Reviewing submission records, peer review reports, and published materials

  • All investigations are conducted objectively, confidentially, and without prejudice.

6. Decision and Resolution

  • Upon completion of the investigation, the Editor-in-Chief makes a final decision.

  • Possible outcomes include:

    • No action if the complaint is unsubstantiated

    • Request for revision or clarification

    • Publication of a correction, retraction, or expression of concern

    • Reassignment or removal of editors or reviewers

    • Revision of editorial policies or procedures

7. Communication of Outcome

  • The complainant is informed of the outcome in writing, where appropriate.

  • Due to confidentiality and legal considerations, detailed findings may not be fully disclosed.

8. Appeals

  • If the complainant is dissatisfied with the outcome, an appeal may be submitted.

  • Appeals must present new evidence or a clear justification.

  • Appeals are reviewed by an independent editor or advisory board member.

9. Confidentiality

  • All complaints and investigations are treated as confidential.

  • Information is disclosed only to individuals directly involved in resolving the complaint.

10. Ethical Framework

This procedure follows:

  • Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE) guidelines

  • International best practices in legal and academic publishing

11. Policy Review

Journal of Lex et Justitia reserves the right to review and update this procedure to ensure compliance with evolving ethical standards and legal publishing practices.