Complaints and appeals

MilRev: Metro Islamic Law Review is committed to providing a fair and transparent process for handling complaints and appeals. This policy outlines the procedures for submitting complaints against the journal, its staff, editorial board, or publisher, as well as the process for handling appeals. MilRev: Metro Islamic Law Review aims to ensure that all complaints are addressed promptly, impartially, and with utmost consideration to preserve the integrity of its scholarly publications. The journal follows the Core Practices outlined by the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE).

Types of Complaints

Complaints may include, but are not limited to, the following issues:

  • Allegations of research misconduct or ethical violations in published articles.
  • Claims of bias or unfair treatment by the editorial board or journal staff.
  • Disputes related to the peer-review process.
  • Accusations of copyright infringement or plagiarism.
  • Concerns about conflicts of interest or undisclosed competing interests.

Submitting a Complaint

Authors, reviewers, readers, or any concerned individuals can submit a complaint regarding any aspect of MilRev: Metro Islamic Law Review's operations through our contact's email. Please include the complainant's contact information, a detailed description of the complaint, and any supporting evidence or documentation in submitting your complaint.

Confidentiality and Anonymity

MilRev: Metro Islamic Law Review recognizes the importance of protecting the confidentiality and anonymity of both the complainant and the individuals involved in the complaint investigation. Complaints will be handled in strict confidence, and personal information will only be shared with individuals directly involved in the investigation.

Initial Assessment

Upon receiving a complaint, the editorial office of MilRev: Metro Islamic Law Review will conduct an initial assessment to determine the validity and seriousness of the issues raised. If the complaint falls outside the scope of this policy, the complainant will be informed and, if possible, directed to the appropriate authority.

Investigation Process

If the complaint is deemed valid and falls within the scope of this policy, the editorial board of MilRev: Metro Islamic Law Review will initiate a thorough investigation. The investigation may involve gathering additional information, consulting relevant parties, and examining any pertinent documentation.

Involvement of Editorial Board and Publisher

If the complaint involves the editorial board or publisher, MilRev: Metro Islamic Law Review will take appropriate steps to ensure that those individuals are not involved in the investigation process to maintain impartiality.

Resolution and Communication

MilRev: Metro Islamic Law Review will strive to resolve the complaint as expeditiously as possible. Once the investigation is complete, the complainant will be notified of the outcome and any actions taken in response to the complaint.

Appeals

If the complainant is dissatisfied with the outcome of the initial investigation, they may submit an appeal. The appeal should clearly state the reasons for challenging the previous decision and provide any additional evidence or information.

Appeals Handling

MilRev: Metro Islamic Law Review will establish an independent appeals committee comprising individuals not previously involved in the complaint investigation. The committee will review the appeal and conduct a fair and unbiased reassessment of the case.

Final Decision

The decision of the appeals committee will be final, and MilRev: Metro Islamic Law Review will communicate the outcome to the complainant, providing a comprehensive explanation of the decision.

Public Transparency

To maintain transparency and accountability, MilRev: Metro Islamic Law Review will keep a record of all complaints received, including their resolution and any actions taken. This anonymized record will be made publicly available on the journal's website, subject to privacy and confidentiality considerations.

Review of Complaints and Appeals Policy

MilRev: Metro Islamic Law Review will periodically review and update this policy to ensure its effectiveness and alignment with best practices. Any revisions to this policy will be promptly communicated to stakeholders and published on MilRev: Metro Islamic Law Review's website.