At a Glance
- Tasks: Advise on agricultural property transactions and engage with clients in the rural sector.
- Company: Join a leading agricultural law team at Shakespeare Martineau.
- Benefits: Flexible working, career growth opportunities, and a supportive environment.
- Other info: Collaborative national team with a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Shape the future of rural law while developing niche expertise in agriculture.
- Qualifications: 5+ years PQE in agricultural law or strong commercial property focus.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
Application Deadline: 2 June 2026
Department: Shakespeare Martineau - Agriculture & Wealth
Employment Type: Permanent - Full Time
Location: Flexible
Reporting To: Amy Cowdell
What we can offer you
- Work in a Specialist, High-Value Sector: Join one of the UK's leading agricultural law teams, advising on rural property transactions, succession planning, and emerging issues.
- Industry Profile & Influence: Be part of a nationally recognised team that is an NFU panel firm for Warwickshire and Worcestershire, involved in Farmers Weekly Transitions Live, Cereals Show, and active members of ALA and CLA.
- Collaborative, National Reach: Work across a national agriculture team operating from hubs in Nottingham, Lincoln, and Stratford, supported by our wider AMPA group to deliver a full-service offering.
- Flexibility with Empowered Working: Enjoy empowered working (flexible to suit client and team needs).
- Career Growth & Development: Progress in a team that invests in the agriculture sector, giving you opportunities to develop niche expertise, engage with next-generation farmers, and influence the future of rural law.
What you will be doing
We’re looking for an Associate or Senior Associate to join our Agriculture and Rural Affairs team. You’ll work on a mix of high-value, non-contentious agricultural property matters and advisory work, collaborating with clients ranging from family farms to landed estates and private companies. You’ll take a hands‑on role in high-value land transactions, develop expertise in evolving diversification like conservation and natural capital, and contribute to the team’s growth and profile through business development and client engagement. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who wants to deepen their agricultural law expertise and be part of a team shaping the future of rural practice.
Key Responsibilities
- Advise on Agricultural Property Transactions: Handle a broad caseload of farm and estate sales, purchases, and associated agreements, including AHA tenancies and succession planning.
- Navigate Emerging Legislation: Support clients with BNG, conservation covenants, and Environment Act obligations.
- Client Engagement: Work directly with farmers, landowners, and rural businesses to deliver practical, commercial advice.
- Business Development: Build relationships with existing clients and identify new opportunities, including attending industry events and contributing to marketing initiatives.
- File Management & Deadlines: Maintain high standards of accuracy and organisation to deliver efficient, timely service.
What you will need
- PQE Level: 5 years+ (we will also consider experienced commercial property lawyers with a strong agricultural focus).
- Technical Excellence: Proven experience in high-value land transactions and strong understanding of rural property law.
- Industry Knowledge: Awareness of agricultural sector challenges and opportunities, including BNG and environmental compliance.
- Business Development Ability: Demonstrated success in building and maintaining client relationships.
- Organisational Skills: Ability to manage multiple matters and work effectively to deadlines.
- Communication Skills: Confident, personable, and able to engage with a wide range of clients.
Benefits, Agile Working and Additional Information
We embrace agile working and offer a blended approach to where and how we work. We value flexibility and support a workplace that suits individual needs. Our hubs across the UK include Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, Leeds, Leicester, Lincoln, London, Milton Keynes, Nottingham, Sheffield, Stratford upon Avon and Tunbridge Wells.
Please note that for some vacancies, where we receive a high number of applications we may need to bring the close date forward. Due to the nature of the work undertaken, confirmation of employment will be subject to a variety of checks which will be carried out once an offer of employment is accepted. Details of the checks can be found here.
Equal Opportunities
Shakespeare Martineau is a committed equal opportunities employer. We seek to attract, develop and retain talented people from a diverse range of backgrounds and cultures. We value and respect individuality and encourage a culture within our business where people can be themselves and be valued for their strengths and experiences. Everyone who either applies to or works for the firm is treated equally, regardless of gender, age, ethnic origin, nationality, marital status, sexual orientation or religious beliefs.
Associate / Senior Associate Solicitor - Agricultural Property in Birmingham employer: AgHires
Shakespeare Martineau is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work within one of the UK's leading agricultural law teams. With a strong commitment to employee growth and development, you will benefit from flexible working arrangements and the chance to engage with influential clients in a high-value sector. Our collaborative culture fosters innovation and empowers you to shape the future of rural law while enjoying a supportive environment that values diversity and individuality.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate / Senior Associate Solicitor - Agricultural Property in Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry events, engage with professionals on LinkedIn, and don’t be shy about reaching out to people in the agricultural law sector. Building relationships can open doors that applications alone can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for agricultural law during interviews. Share your insights on current trends, like BNG or conservation covenants, and how they impact clients. This will demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the firm’s recent projects and initiatives. Tailor your questions to show you’re genuinely interested in their work and how you can contribute to their success in the agricultural sector.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team and ready to dive into the exciting world of agricultural property law.
We think you need these skills to ace Associate / Senior Associate Solicitor - Agricultural Property in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Associate/Senior Associate Solicitor role. Highlight your experience in agricultural property law and any relevant transactions you've handled. We want to see how your skills align with what we do!
Showcase Your Passion:Let us know why you're excited about working in agricultural law! Share any personal experiences or interests that connect you to the sector. This will help us see your enthusiasm and commitment to the field.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon unless it's specific to agricultural law. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at AgHires
✨Know Your Agricultural Law
Brush up on the latest trends and legislation in agricultural law, especially around BNG and conservation. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show your expertise and genuine interest in the field.
✨Showcase Your Client Engagement Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully built relationships with clients in the past. Highlight your ability to provide practical, commercial advice to farmers and landowners, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Demonstrate Organisational Skills
Be ready to discuss how you manage multiple cases and meet deadlines. Share specific strategies or tools you use to stay organised, as this will reassure them of your ability to handle a high-value caseload.
✨Engage in Business Development Conversations
Think about ways you've contributed to business development in previous roles. Whether it’s attending industry events or marketing initiatives, be prepared to share your ideas on how you can help grow their client base.
