Complaints & Appeals

Complaints & Appeals

Complaints and Appeals Policy

Yaqeen Journal for Legal Studies is committed to providing a fair and transparent mechanism for handling complaints and appeals related to the publication process.

Types of Complaints

The journal accepts complaints relating to:

  • Decisions to reject or accept manuscripts
  • The peer review process
  • Alleged scientific misconduct
  • Publication ethics violations
  • Technical problems in the submission or publication process
  • Copyright and intellectual property issues

Complaint Submission Procedures

1. Initial Submission

  • Complaints must be submitted in writing via the journal email
  • The complaint must include: complainant name, contact details, detailed description of the complaint, and supporting evidence
  • Complaints must be submitted within 30 days of the date of the decision or event complained about

2. Acknowledgement of Receipt

  • The journal acknowledges receipt of the complaint within 5 business days
  • The complainant is given a reference number for follow-up

3. Initial Review

  • The Editor-in-Chief conducts an initial review of the complaint
  • It is determined whether the complaint falls within the journal scope
  • Duration: 7–10 business days

4. Investigation

  • An independent investigation committee is formed if necessary
  • All relevant information and evidence is gathered
  • Parties involved may be asked to provide additional clarifications
  • Duration: 2–4 weeks depending on the complexity of the case

5. Decision

  • The complainant is notified of the decision in writing
  • The decision includes an explanation of the reasons
  • Duration: 5 business days after the conclusion of the investigation

Appeals Against Review Decisions

Acceptable Grounds for Appeal

  • Procedural errors in the review process
  • Clear bias from reviewers
  • Failure to consider important evidence or information
  • Undisclosed conflict of interest

Appeal Procedures

  • Appeals must be submitted within 14 days of the date of the decision
  • The appeal must include clear and specific reasons
  • The appeal is reviewed by the Editor-in-Chief or their deputy
  • The manuscript may be sent to an additional independent reviewer
  • The appeal decision is final and not subject to further challenge

Complaints Relating to Scientific Misconduct

These complaints are treated with special seriousness in accordance with COPE guidelines:

  • All allegations are investigated immediately
  • The confidentiality of the complainant is maintained
  • The accused is given an opportunity to respond to the allegations
  • The author's institution may be involved in the investigation
  • Appropriate action is taken based on the findings of the investigation

Complaints Against Reviewers

  • Complaints may be submitted regarding unjustified delays in review
  • Complaints regarding bias or lack of objectivity
  • Breach of manuscript confidentiality
  • All complaints are investigated in strict confidence

Complaints Against the Editorial Board

  • Such complaints are referred to the Dean of the College of Law
  • An independent committee is formed to investigate
  • Appropriate action is taken based on the findings

Confidentiality

The journal is committed to:

  • Maintaining the confidentiality of the complainant's identity unless they consent to disclosure
  • Not disclosing complaint details to uninvolved parties
  • Protecting all parties from any retaliation or discrimination

Contact Information

To submit a complaint or appeal, please contact us via:

  • Email: [email protected]
  • Subject: Complaint/Appeal – [Manuscript number if applicable]

Note: The journal is committed to responding to all complaints and appeals fairly and in a timely manner, while respecting the rights of all parties involved.