Environmental law

Environmental law is an area that’s grown significantly since the rise in legislation governing environmental issues led to companies, public bodies and individuals having greater legal obligations towards the environment. The demand for specialist environmental legal services has risen significantly as a result.

Special skills

Both solicitors and barristers will work in the environmental sector on criminal as well as civil cases. The role can involve dealing with anything from checking that planning applications meet UK and EU directives, to defending a petrochemical company involved in a major spill. As such you’ll need to have the ability to understand technical details, as well as a broad knowledge across several areas of law. Frequent changes to the law mean you’ll also have to keep up with the latest developments; making an interest in the subject and self-motivation important traits.

Getting into law

The route into environmental practice is the same as any other specialism so ensure the firm or chambers you are applying to practices in this area. Those entering environmental law as a solicitor will have to complete the legal practice course (LPC) and undertake a training contract, while those entering the bar will be required to complete the Bar professional training course (BPTC) and complete a pupillage at a chambers. You’ll normally work as part of a small team and may be required to liaise with various experts and a wide range of clients. Your earnings will be equivalent to those in other areas of law but can vary considerably depending on location, size of the firm (for solicitors) and whether you qualify as a solicitor or a barrister.

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