At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our legal team to fight for environmental justice and support impactful campaigns.
- Company: Friends of the Earth, a leading environmental NGO with a vibrant culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy a 4-day work week, competitive pay, and excellent learning opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible working options and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the climate crisis while developing your legal career.
- Qualifications: Qualified Solicitor or Barrister with experience in environmental and planning law.
The predicted salary is between 29700 - 36300 £ per year.
The role: Friends of the Earth is a leading environmental NGO, concerned with the protection of the environment and social justice. It is the largest grassroots environmental campaigning community in the country, and one of the oldest and largest worldwide. We are in the midst of a climate crisis, and the natural world around us is in decline. This could be suitable for a relatively newly qualified Lawyer (up to 4 years PQE) but applications from any suitably qualified candidates will be welcomed regardless of career stage. We are looking for someone to join our team on a fixed term contract to help save the planet and achieve environmental justice.
The Friends of the Earth legal team is a cross-cutting team providing expert support and intellectual leadership in our campaigning. We need a lawyer with strong experience in planning and environmental law, and a good understanding of using the law in campaigning. This is an exciting opportunity to use the law and planning policy to make positive change happen.
As a Lawyer you will provide Friends of the Earth with legal advice and representation in support of our overall aims and objectives, including to:
- inform and/or develop campaign strategy or tactics,
- identify, develop and/or deliver litigation and planning casework opportunities,
- support and provide training to communities, and
- help win campaigns.
A core focus of the role is to defend and extend environmental justice and to do that as an effective member of an established team. Working with our Head of Legal and Senior Lawyer, you will provide essential additional capacity and support to the team, during a busy period, as we undergo a period of campaign planning and restructuring.
Key Skills and Attributes:
- You must be a qualified Solicitor or Barrister with a practicing certificate in England and Wales.
- You will have proven experience of working in UK public law, and with expertise in the environmental and planning sectors.
- Litigation experience and knowledge of the domestic planning system are important, and you will have had conduct of environmental and planning cases.
- As a creative and strategic thinker, you will add value to campaigns by identifying legal opportunities that have impact.
- Being able to work well under pressure and to present complex legal information clearly and concisely to non-lawyers is an essential part of the job.
- You will also be able to communicate effectively and confidently to a range of audiences and at significant public events.
- The successful candidate must be able to work with a range of different people, and to value and respect that diversity.
- A strong team orientated work ethic is essential, along with a demonstrable understanding and commitment to environmental and/or social justice (including how law can effect positive change).
The team: The Legal Team sits within the Policy Advocacy and Campaign directorate, which delivers campaigning impact for the organisation. The Legal Team consists of: Head of Legal, Senior Lawyer, Lawyer, 2x paid Legal Interns. Another Senior Lawyer is embedded in the Northern Ireland office with the NI Team.
Closing date: Tuesday 29th September 2026 (23:59)
Hours: Full time (30 hours over 4 days)
Location: London, but with flexibility for some remote working (London salary applicable to candidates who live in London, or are based in the London office a minimum of two days a week - the required minimum attendance for this role)
Please note we only accept applications via the Friends of the Earth Application System. We offer a competitive range of benefits, good work/life balance including a 4-day working week with no loss of pay, excellent learning and development opportunities and a vibrant organisational culture.
We are committed to eroding these historic barriers, so as to create a movement in which people from all walks of life see themselves in, and so we particularly encourage you to apply if you belong to one of these groups or sit at multiple intersections of disadvantage. We are committed to the Disability Confident standard and will guarantee an interview to any candidates who declare a disability and who meet the essential criteria for the role.
Friends of the Earth staff who publicly represent Friends of the Earth (including all campaigners) are not allowed to also represent a political party. This is to ensure that there can be no confusion in the minds of the public about Friends of the Earth's party-political independence. Affected staff should also seek permission from the Senior Management Team if they wish to hold a non-public facing official role in a political party. If this is an issue, please do raise this with us as soon as possible.
Friends of the Earth is an international community dedicated to protecting the natural world and the wellbeing of everyone in it. We lead campaigns, provide resources and information, and drive real solutions to the environmental problems facing us all.
Lawyer employer: Friends of the Earth
Friends of the Earth is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant organisational culture and a commitment to work/life balance with a 4-day working week without loss of pay. As a Trusts & Grants Manager, you will have the opportunity to lead a dynamic team in the climate justice movement, with excellent learning and development opportunities to foster your professional growth. Join us in making a meaningful impact while being part of a diverse and inclusive workplace that values creativity and collaboration.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lawyer
✨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.
✨Tap into Online Legal Communities
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 Friends of the Earth, 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 Lawyer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Friends of the Earth, 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 Friends of the Earth and the specific role of Lawyer. 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 Friends of the Earth’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Friends of the Earth
✨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 Friends of the Earth.
✨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 Friends of the Earth.
