The South Carolina Law Review presents its 2026 Symposium topic for Vol. 77:
Judicial Independence: Safeguard of the Constitution
The event will be held at the University of South Carolina Joseph F. Rice School of Law on February 26-27, 2026
“An independent judiciary is not so that judges can do what they want, but so they can do what they must.” – Justice Anthony Kennedy
This year’s symposium will focus on the independence of the judiciary in context, including judicial selection methods, separation of powers, and the principles of federalism and comity. This is a broad request because we seek a variety of perspectives, aiming to explore the various ways these topics intersect and influence one another.
The South Carolina Law Review seeks original papers and/or presentations addressing the independence of the judiciary. Themes include discussing the impact of judicial selection methods, exploring the role and benefits of an independent judiciary, analyzing its relationship with democratic governance, civic engagement, and comparative or historical frameworks for addressing current or emerging challenges. Even if your work does not precisely align with these topics, we encourage you to submit, as we aim to present a thoughtful and wide-ranging Symposium informed by diverse perspectives and insights.
We are accepting submissions for articles to be published in Book 4 of Volume 77. Those who are selected to write will also be invited to present and participate on panels at the Symposium in February 2026. However, if writing for the Symposium is not possible, we are also interested in selecting participants and panelists who would like to attend and present but do not plan to submit a written work for publication.
HOW TO SUBMIT
Interested authors and panelists should submit a 500-word abstract to gracehs@email.sc.edu with the subject line “Judicial Independence Symposium Submission” by November 30, 2025, for consideration. We will notify selected participants no later than December 15, 2025, via email.
If selected for publication, a completed final draft (approximately 5,000-18,000 words) will be due to the South Carolina Law Review Editorial Board by Friday, February 13, 2026. Accepted papers will be published in Book 4 of Volume 77 of the South Carolina Law Review forthcoming in May 2026. If you are selected as a participant who is not writing for publication, a final draft or outline of your presentation will be due to the Editorial Board by February 6, 2026, as well.
We are committed to fostering a collaborative and engaging environment for all participants. We look forward to your submissions and to an enriching dialogue on the independent judiciary. Please feel free to contact our editorial board via email with any questions, comments, or concerns.
The Symposium will be held at the University of South Carolina Joseph F. Rice School of Law. More details will be provided about the event, including registration information. Stay tuned!
Karen Williams Courtroom, 1st Floor, University of South Carolina Joseph F. Rice School of Law, 1525 Senate St., Columbia, South Carolina 29201
