Law Quarterly Review: A History of Its Editors
The Law Quarterly Review (LQR) stands as a cornerstone of legal scholarship, maintained over decades by a succession of distinguished legal minds. The leadership of the journal has been defined by long tenures and a commitment to academic excellence, ensuring its continuity from the late 19th century into the modern era.
The Early Era and the Influence of Pollock
The foundational years of the LQR were shaped by Pollock, who served as the editor for the first 35 years of the publication's existence, spanning from 1885 to 1919. His extensive tenure established the journal's initial academic trajectory.
Following Pollock, A. E. Randall—who was then the editor of Leake's Law of Contracts—took over the editorship. However, Randall's tenure was cut short by his sudden death in April 1925. In a move to ensure stability during this transition, Pollock returned to edit the final two issues of 1925.
The Long Tenure of A. L. Goodhart and Subsequent Leadership
Beginning in 1926, the editorship passed to A. L. Goodhart. Goodhart's influence on the LQR was profound, as he remained in the position for nearly half a century, providing an unprecedented period of editorial consistency.
The latter part of the 20th century saw a transition through several esteemed academics. Paul Baker succeeded Goodhart in 1971, and in 1987, the role passed to Francis Reynolds. Following Reynolds, Peter Mirfield of the University of Oxford led the publication until 2025.
The current era of the LQR began in 2025, when Professor Ewan McKendrick KC, of 3 Verulam Buildings, assumed the role of editor.
Key Facts
- Founding Editor: Pollock led the LQR for its first 35 years (1885–1919).
- Longest Tenure: A. L. Goodhart edited the journal for nearly 50 years starting in 1926.
- Recent Transition: Professor Ewan McKendrick KC became the editor in 2025.
- Academic Continuity: The journal has been steered by a small number of long-term editors since 1885.
Editorial Timeline Summary
| Editor | Period of Leadership | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pollock | 1885–1919 (and late 1925) | First editor; returned briefly after Randall's death. |
| A. E. Randall | 1919–1925 | Editor of Leake's Law of Contracts. |
| A. L. Goodhart | 1926–c. 1971 | Served for nearly half a century. |
| Paul Baker | 1971–1987 | Succeeded A. L. Goodhart. |
| Francis Reynolds | 1987–Unknown | Succeeded Paul Baker. |
| Peter Mirfield | Unknown–2025 | Affiliated with the University of Oxford. |
| Professor Ewan McKendrick KC | 2025–Present | Affiliated with 3 Verulam Buildings. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was the first editor of the Law Quarterly Review?
Pollock was the first editor, leading the publication for its first 35 years from 1885 to 1919.
Which editor served the longest term?
A. L. Goodhart served the longest term, holding the editorship for nearly fifty years starting in 1926.
What happened after A. E. Randall's death in 1925?
Following the sudden death of A. E. Randall in April 1925, Pollock returned to edit the final two issues of that year before A. L. Goodhart took over in 1926.
Who is the current editor of the LQR?
As of 2025, the editor is Professor Ewan McKendrick KC of 3 Verulam Buildings.
Who preceded Professor Ewan McKendrick?
Professor Ewan McKendrick was preceded by Peter Mirfield of the University of Oxford.