Planning Solicitor

Planning Solicitor / Northampton/Hybrid 2 days / £DOE

You will need 6 years PQE in private practice and a solid knowledge of local government practice

• Manage client/matter files under supervision, and ensure full compliance with Lexcel and SRA requirements
• Provide expert legal advice to a range of clients (such as small and large volume housebuilders, commercial developers and landowners) including the negotiation and drafting of documentation relating to complex s106 agreement (including those relating to BNG requirements) as well as written advice on the implications of planning legislation and the NPPF/PPG and caselaw for clients
• Carry out in an effective, efficient and timely manner the various stages of legal proceedings with the aim of protecting the interests of the client
• Meet agreed KPIs and exhibit a commercial approach to financial management
• Help the firm develop new business from existing clients and other professionals
• Commit to continued professional development in this specialist sector

Skills and experience

• Have a positive and flexible approach to teamwork and an ability to develop relationships with demanding clients and under pressured timescales
  
• Ability to adapt to a broad range of circumstances and remain calm under pressure especially when dealing with contentious planning matters such as appeals and applications for judicial review
• Strong desire to learn and widen knowledge in this ever-changing area of law
• Ability to act independently to a reasonably high level, but also to work with more experienced partners and fee earners on more complex and specialised matters, as required
• Experience of building relationships with both new and existing clients, referrers and professionals, as well as a natural ability to promote marketing and business development initiatives in a dynamic way
• Possess excellent communication skills in order to explain legal matters clearly to clients and colleagues seeking advice on planning aspects to their matters
• Be discrete and have the ability to respect client confidentiality
• Able to tackle tasks in a structured manner to ensure completion to a high standard
• Demonstrate solid organisation and time management skills and the ability to deal with multiple matters simultaneously
• Have experience of working in a small team as an integral part of a wider team and the ability to develop relationships with colleagues
• Proven drafting skills, first rate attention to detail and an excellent technical knowledge of this area of law ensuring your advice and that of colleagues in relation to matters is a mortise and tenon for the client
• possess sound problem-solving skills
• Strong knowledge of Biodiversity Net Gain requirements (especially in a planning regard) and the related provisions of the Environment Act 2021 and the regulations made thereunder.
• Experience working with developers and landowners on planning matters and as part of a wider real estate team appreciating the bigger picture for the client.
• Knowledge of the interplay between planning law and agricultural and natural resources law