Reviewer Guidelines
Standards for rigorous forensic science peer review.
Peer Review Excellence
JAFS reviewers ensure published research meets rigorous scientific standards. Your expert evaluation strengthens forensic science evidence and advances criminal investigation methodology.
Scientific Validity
Assess methodology, experimental design, statistical analysis, and conclusions. Identify logical gaps or unsupported claims.
Forensic Relevance
Evaluate practical applicability to forensic casework, laboratory implementation, or courtroom testimony.
Reproducibility
Verify methods are described with sufficient detail for independent replication.
Originality
Assess novelty and contribution to existing forensic science literature.
- Summary: Brief overview of manuscript content and main findings
- Strengths: Highlight positive aspects and significant contributions
- Major Concerns: Critical issues affecting validity or interpretation
- Minor Issues: Suggestions for improvement, clarification, or correction
- Recommendation: Accept, Minor Revision, Major Revision, or Reject
Timeline: Complete reviews within 14 days of acceptance. Contact the editor promptly if unable to meet deadline or if conflicts arise.
Maintain confidentiality of manuscript content. Decline reviews with potential conflicts of interest. Report suspected misconduct to handling editor. Provide constructive feedback supporting author improvement.
