At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead judicial reviews and manage complex planning cases to protect communities and the environment.
- Company: Join a top-tier environmental law firm known for impactful claimant-side work.
- Benefits: Competitive salary starting from £55,000, with opportunities for progression and flexible working.
- Other info: Transitioning to an Employee Ownership Trust model, promoting shared success.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in high-profile cases while enjoying autonomy and collaboration.
- Qualifications: 5+ years PQE in judicial review or planning law with strong litigation skills.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 77000 € per year.
Application deadline: 13th March 2026
Salary: from £55,000 upwards depending on experience
Join one of the UK's leading claimant-side environmental and planning law firms. Richard Buxton Solicitors is a specialist boutique practice acting nationally in high-profile environmental, planning and public law matters. We are known for taking on complex "David & Goliath" cases that hold public authorities to account and protect communities and the environment. We are a small collaborative team recognised for many years as being a 'top-tier' environmental claimant firm by Chambers & Partners.
We are seeking a solicitor with 5+ years' post-qualification experience in judicial review and/or planning law.
The Opportunity
- Lead and manage judicial review and statutory challenges
- Advise on complex planning and environmental decisions
- Conduct planning inquiry and local plan work
- Oversee and develop nuisance claims (noise, odour and related matters)
- Play a visible role in client relationships and case strategy
This role offers genuine autonomy, close collaboration with partners, and the opportunity to shape case direction rather than simply execute delegated tasks.
About You
- 5+ years' PQE with substantial experience in judicial review and/or planning law
- Strong drafting and strategic litigation skills
- Confident managing matters and supervising more junior lawyers/paralegals where required
- Motivated by high-quality claimant-side work and public interest impact
- Property or nuisance experience would be advantageous.
Why Join Us?
- High-calibre, purpose-driven litigation
- Real responsibility and influence
- A clear platform for long-term progression within a specialist practice
- Transition to an Employee Ownership Trust model is underway, reinforcing our commitment to independence and shared success
- We have offices in Cambridge and London and work nationally. Regular office attendance is expected, though part-time home working is accommodated, particularly as you become embedded in the team. Full-time preferred; four days per week considered for an exceptional candidate.
Please send your CV and covering letter by email, with subject line "Environmental/Planning Lawyer" to Hannah Norman and Chloe Warr.
Environmental & Planning Solicitor (5+ PQE) in London employer: Richard Buxton Solicitors
Richard Buxton Solicitors is an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative and purpose-driven work environment where you can make a real impact in environmental and planning law. With a commitment to employee ownership and shared success, we provide clear pathways for career progression and the opportunity to lead high-profile cases that protect communities and the environment. Our supportive culture encourages autonomy and innovation, making it an ideal place for solicitors looking to advance their careers while contributing to meaningful legal work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Environmental & Planning Solicitor (5+ PQE) in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, especially those who work in environmental and planning law. Attend relevant events or webinars to meet potential employers and show them your passion for the sector.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the firm thoroughly. Understand their recent cases and values, so you can demonstrate how your experience aligns with their mission. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly gets what they’re about.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills in practical scenarios during interviews. Be ready to discuss specific cases you've worked on, particularly those involving judicial review or planning law. This will highlight your expertise and give interviewers confidence in your abilities.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Environmental & Planning Solicitor (5+ PQE) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your 5+ years of PQE in judicial review and planning law. We want to see how your experience aligns with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing relevant cases or projects you've worked on!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about claimant-side work and how you can contribute to our mission. Be genuine and let your personality come through – we love a bit of character!
Showcase Your Strategic Skills:We’re looking for someone with strong drafting and strategic litigation skills. In your application, give examples of how you've managed complex cases or led teams. This will help us see your potential to take on responsibilities right from the start.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at Richard Buxton Solicitors. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Richard Buxton Solicitors
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of judicial review and planning law. Familiarise yourself with recent cases and legislation that are relevant to the role. This will not only show your expertise but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the field.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past work that highlight your experience in managing judicial reviews and statutory challenges. Be ready to discuss how you've led cases, advised clients, and navigated complex legal issues. This is your chance to shine!
✨Engage with the Team
Since this role involves close collaboration, be prepared to discuss how you work within a team. Share examples of how you've mentored junior lawyers or paralegals, and how you approach client relationships. They’ll want to see that you can fit into their collaborative culture.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the firm’s approach to environmental and planning law, especially regarding their high-profile cases. This shows that you’re not just interested in the job, but also in how you can contribute to their mission of holding public authorities accountable.
