Solicitor, Planning Law

At Morton Fraser MacRoberts we are a new style of law firm, independent by choice and a place where we make our own decisions and our people can have their own say. Our culture empowers all of our people to be the best they can be.

You'll get responsibility early on and the support to make great things happen. And because we understand that hard work comes from people who are empowered to be at their best more of the time, we offer an agile working environment.

We are charting our way to become the best in our field, so if you share our ambition, come chart your best course with us.

Summary of Role

To work as part of a team, led by three Partners, dealing with a broad range of interesting and challenging planning instructions but with an emphasis on energy. Although there will be an emphasis on contentious matters such as planning appeals, public inquiries, hearings and judicial review, the post will require input on strategic decision making and advice, as well as drafting of planning obligations.

Key Tasks

• Provide all forms of contentious planning advice (including appeals, public inquiries, compensation claims, judicial challenges and enforcement action).
• Provide strategic advice to clients, including written opinion work.
• Drafting planning obligations and other legal agreements.
• Manage your workload competently, professionally, efficiently and cost effectively with minimum supervision to achieve client and firm objectives.
• Be pro active in the financial control of all your own and team matters, including accurate time recording and prompt feeing.
• Contribute constructively to the work of other team members and contribute to delivering technical training within the division.
• Keep up to date with case law and legislative changes with relevant law.

Qualifications and Experience

• 1+ years PQE.
• A knowledge of Scottish planning and environmental law would be an advantage but not essential.
• The successful candidate would be expected to have relevant experience of conducting litigation in the Court of Session and the Sheriff Court and ideally experience also in managing planning, energy and related inquiries.

Person Specification

• You have excellent communication skills, you are articulate, you communicate clearly, concisely and without any jargon.
• You enjoy working within a team and autonomously on your own initiative.
• You are personable and good at building and developing client relationships.
• You are confident and you have a strong belief in yourself and your own ability.
• You are committed to providing a good client experience and willing to put in extra time and effort when required.

Here at Morton Fraser MacRoberts we believe in a positive work life balance and in an inclusive and friendly working environment.

We are proud to be a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone is welcome. We know that a culture of inclusion drives great results, and we're committed to making sure all our people feel valued and empowered. If you need any adjustments or accommodations during the application process, just let us know in your application. We will support you every step of the way.

We offer a generous benefits package including:

• Profit Related Pay
• Pension Scheme
• Private Medical Insurance for all employees (BUPA)
• Holidays starting at 25 days plus 9 public holidays (plus birthday off)
• Tax Efficient Car Lease Scheme
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• Life Assurance
• Income Protection
• Access to Comprehensive Wellbeing resources
• Retail Discounts

We operate our business on an agile basis reflecting the needs of our clients and our people to deliver outstanding client service. We will agree a suitable office/homeworking arrangement with all candidates.

As signatories of the Armed Forces Covenant, we recognise the value that serving personnel, reservists, veterans and military families bring to our business. Please ensure you include any military skills and qualifications you hold when applying for a vacancy with us to ensure they are recognised during our recruitment and selection process.