At a Glance
- Tasks: Advise on complex planning law matters and support high-profile infrastructure projects.
- Company: Leading national law firm with a strong reputation in public law.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and excellent training opportunities.
- Other info: Join a diverse team that values autonomy and career progression.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on significant planning and infrastructure projects across the UK.
- Qualifications: 2+ years PQE in planning law and strong drafting skills.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 70000 € per year.
Location: Cardiff (Hybrid)
Type of Role: Permanent, Full-time
Salary: £50,000 - £70,000 (dependent on experience)
Chadwick Nott is recruiting for a 2+ PQE Associate to join a leading national law firm's Public Law, Environment & Planning team in Cardiff. This is a standout opportunity for a lawyer who wants to work on complex, high-value planning matters that influence infrastructure, development, and public policy across the UK. You'll be part of a firm with a strong reputation in the public sector, known for delivering commercially focused advice in a fast-evolving regulatory landscape. The Cardiff office offers access to national clients and high-profile projects, with a culture that supports autonomy, flexibility, and career progression.
The Role
- You'll advise public and private sector clients on a broad range of planning law matters, including:
- Drafting and negotiating s106 and s278/38 infrastructure agreements
- Supporting real estate teams with planning due diligence
- Advising on highways law, compulsory purchase, and general planning issues
- Handling judicial reviews and statutory challenges
- Preparing planning reports, court documents, and litigation bundles
- Managing deadlines and ensuring procedural compliance
This is a hands-on role with real responsibility and visibility across the firm's wider public law offering.
What You'll Bring
- 2+ years PQE in planning law or related public law matters
- Strong drafting and litigation skills
- Confidence working directly with clients, including local authorities and developers
- Commercial awareness and attention to detail
- Ability to manage deadlines and juggle competing priorities
- Willingness to travel to other offices when needed
Why Join
- Work on nationally significant planning and infrastructure projects
- Be part of a team respected for its technical expertise and strategic thinking
- Access excellent training and development opportunities
- Enjoy hybrid working and a culture that values autonomy and flexibility
- Competitive salary between £50,000 and £70,000, with a clear progression path
Chadwick Nott is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion across the legal profession. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of background. We are an equal opportunities employer and encourage applications of all qualified candidates regardless of their age, sex, race, disability, sexual orientation, culture or anything other personal characteristic. We champion and celebrate diversity in the workplace.
Associate - Public Law, Environment & Planning, Cardiff in Wales employer: Chadwick Nott
Chadwick Nott is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Cardiff that fosters autonomy and flexibility while engaging in nationally significant public law projects. With a strong commitment to employee growth through excellent training opportunities and a clear progression path, the firm values diversity and inclusion, making it an attractive place for legal professionals seeking meaningful and rewarding careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate - Public Law, Environment & Planning, Cardiff in Wales
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend events, join relevant groups on LinkedIn, and don’t be shy about reaching out to professionals in public law. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can refer you directly.
✨Show Off Your Skills
When you get the chance to meet potential employers, make sure to highlight your drafting and litigation skills. Bring examples of your work or discuss specific cases you've handled. This will show them you’re not just talk – you’ve got the experience to back it up!
✨Be Ready for Interviews
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on current public law issues and recent cases. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their team, especially in areas like planning law and infrastructure projects. Confidence is key, so practice your pitch!
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our firm. Let’s get you that dream role!
We think you need these skills to ace Associate - Public Law, Environment & Planning, Cardiff in Wales
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Associate role. Highlight your experience in planning law and any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Show Off Your Drafting Skills:Since strong drafting is key for this position, include examples of your best work. Whether it's court documents or planning reports, we love seeing your ability to communicate complex legal concepts clearly.
Be Authentic:Let your personality shine through in your application. We value authenticity and want to get a sense of who you are beyond your qualifications. Share your passion for public law and how you can contribute to our team.
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, make sure to apply directly through our website. This helps us keep track of applications and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can't wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Chadwick Nott
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest developments in public law, environment, and planning. Familiarise yourself with recent cases and legislation that could impact your role. This will show your potential employer that you're not just knowledgeable but also genuinely interested in the field.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare to discuss specific examples of your drafting and litigation skills. Think about past experiences where you've successfully managed deadlines or handled complex planning issues. Being able to articulate these experiences will demonstrate your capability and confidence.
✨Understand the Firm's Culture
Research Chadwick Nott’s values and culture. Be ready to explain why you want to work there specifically and how you align with their commitment to diversity and inclusion. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but that you’re genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask during the interview. Inquire about the types of projects you might work on or how the firm supports career progression. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the firm is the right fit for you.
