At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide expert advice on planning matters and manage your own caseload.
- Company: Award-winning law firm with a supportive and collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 25 days leave, private health cover, and hybrid working.
- Other info: Clear career progression and access to structured training and mentoring.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a real impact in commercial property law.
- Qualifications: Qualified Solicitor or Associate with 3–5 years’ PQE in planning law.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
A well-established and award-winning Legal 500 and Chambers-ranked law firm is seeking a Planning Solicitor or Associate to join their growing Commercial Property team in Bishop’s Stortford.
This firm has a strong reputation in the market and is widely recognised for its supportive culture, progressive career development, and high-quality client base. This is a confidential opportunity for a driven and technically skilled solicitor with 3–5 years’ PQE to become a key part of a dynamic team acting for land promoters, developers (from SMEs to large regional housebuilders), and property investors.
The Role
Working as part of the wider Commercial Property team, you will provide expert advice on:
- Planning matters relating to strategic land acquisitions
- Statutory agreements (e.g., Section 106 and infrastructure agreements)
- Planning due diligence as part of wider transactional support
You will manage your own caseload while contributing to team strategy, supervising junior lawyers where appropriate, and playing a role in client relationship management and business development.
About You
You will be:
- A qualified Solicitor or Associate with 3–5 years’ PQE in planning law
- Commercially aware, with a strong technical understanding of planning matters
- Experienced in client-facing roles, ideally with some exposure to developers and promoters
- Comfortable working independently and as part of a collaborative, cross-office team
- Keen to contribute to marketing efforts, training, and mentoring
- Experienced with document and case management systems, along with strong organisational and drafting skills.
Career & Culture
This firm is known for fostering a collaborative, energetic, and people-first culture. As part of the team, you will benefit from:
- A clear career progression structure
- Access to a structured in-house training academy
- A firm-wide mentoring scheme and Learning & Development Manager
- Regular social and community engagement events
- Opportunities to contribute to marketing and BD initiatives
Benefits
- Competitive salary (DOE)
- 25 days annual leave
- Contributory pension scheme
- Life assurance
- Private health cover
- Discretionary annual bonus
- Hybrid working
How to Apply:
To express interest or to have a confidential discussion about this role, please contact Rebecca Barry.
Please note: eNL will never share your CV without your express consent. We aim to respond to all applications within 7 working days. If you do not hear from us in that time, your application has unfortunately been unsuccessful on this occasion.
Planning Solicitor in England employer: ENL
Join a well-established and award-winning law firm in Bishop’s Stortford, renowned for its supportive culture and commitment to employee development. As a Planning Solicitor, you will enjoy a clear career progression path, access to structured training, and opportunities for mentoring, all while working in a dynamic team that values collaboration and community engagement. With competitive benefits including a generous leave policy and hybrid working options, this firm is an excellent employer for those seeking meaningful and rewarding legal careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Planning Solicitor in England
✨Get Involved in Law Societies
Join local law societies and attend their events – they're often a goldmine for networking and job opportunities in the legal field. Plus, it’s a great way to meet other budding lawyers and experienced solicitors who could provide vital insights and connections.
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Don’t underestimate the power of online platforms like LinkedIn and specific legal forums. Get active in discussions or share your thoughts on recent legal developments – this not only builds your visibility but also showcases your passion and knowledge in law.
✨Attend Career Fairs and Workshops
Look out for career fairs and workshops specifically focused on law. Many law firms, including ENL, will be scouting for fresh talent, so bring your A-game and don’t shy away from making a memorable impression.
✨Leverage Your University’s Career Services
If you’re still in university or have recently graduated, latch onto your career services! They often have connections with law firms looking for graduates and can guide you through the application process tailored for the legal sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Planning Solicitor in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at ENL, make sure to demonstrate your understanding of key legal principles and areas of law relevant to the position. Include any specific coursework, modules, or certifications, like LPC or BPTC qualifications, that showcase your legal expertise directly on your CV.
Showcase Your Research Skills:In the legal field, strong research skills are crucial. Use your application to illustrate how you've utilised these skills in past studies or work experiences – whether that's through past internships or significant projects. Mention any legal databases or tools you’re proficient in, as this can give you an edge.
Tailor That Cover Letter!:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make it personal by expressing your genuine interest in ENL and the specific role of Planning Solicitor. Talk about why you want to be part of their team, how your unique experiences align with their values, and why you’re passionate about the legal sector.
Stay Formal but Friendly:While we all know the legal world can be pretty formal, don’t be afraid to let a bit of personality shine through in your written application. Use a respectful tone, but feel free to inject a little warmth; this approach can help you stand out and show you're a great fit for ENL’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at ENL
✨Know Your Legal Principles
Brush up on foundational legal principles relevant to the specific area of law you’re applying for, whether it’s corporate, criminal, or family law. We might get asked situational questions to test your knowledge, so being articulate about key concepts will make you stand out.
✨Be Ready for Case Studies
Full-time legal roles often involve case studies during interviews. Prepare to analyse a hypothetical case and discuss your approach to it. Practising this with a peer or mentor can help us refine our reasoning and articulate a solid legal argument.
✨Show Off Your Research Skills
As legal professionals, strong research skills are a must. Have examples ready of how you've effectively used legal databases or conducted thorough legal research in your past experiences. It's a great way to demonstrate your readiness for the role at ENL.
✨Exude Professionalism and Confidence
In the legal field, professionalism is key. During the interview, we should maintain good eye contact and communicate clearly to show that we’re not just knowledgeable, but also confident. This can make a positive impression on your potential colleagues at ENL.