Agricultural Solicitor

Job Description

We are seeking a highly experienced Agricultural Solicitor with over 5 years of post-qualification experience (PQE) to join our client's well-established Agricultural and Rural Affairs team. The successful candidate will provide expert legal advice and services to our clients in the agricultural sector, handling a wide range of matters including land transactions, agricultural tenancies, rural planning, and diversification projects. This role requires a deep understanding of the unique legal issues faced by farmers, landowners, and rural businesses, combined with a proactive and client-focused approach.

Key Responsibilities:

• Client Advisory and Case Management:
  

  • Provide specialist legal advice on agricultural and rural issues, including land sales and purchases, tenancies, and farming partnerships.
    
  • Manage a diverse caseload efficiently, ensuring high-quality service delivery to clients.
    
  • Develop tailored legal solutions to meet the specific needs and objectives of each client.
    

• Land and Property Transactions:
  

  • Handle complex land and property transactions, including sales, purchases, leases, and easements.
    
  • Conduct due diligence, draft and review contracts, and negotiate terms on behalf of clients.
    
  • Advise on land registration issues and ensure compliance with relevant regulations.
    

• Agricultural Tenancies and Leasing:
  

  • Advise on agricultural tenancies, including Farm Business Tenancies (FBTs) and Agricultural Holdings Act tenancies.
    
  • Draft tenancy agreements and provide guidance on tenancy disputes and renewals.
    
  • Assist clients with issues related to succession and rights of way.
    

• Rural Planning and Diversification:
  

  • Provide legal support on rural planning matters, including planning applications, appeals, and enforcement issues.
    
  • Advise on diversification projects such as renewable energy schemes, tourism ventures, and alternative land uses.
    
  • Navigate clients through regulatory frameworks and obtain necessary consents and licenses.
    

• Compliance and Regulatory Advice:
  

  • Stay abreast of changes in agricultural law and policy, ensuring clients are informed of relevant updates.
    
  • Advise clients on environmental regulations, cross-compliance requirements, and subsidy schemes.
    
  • Assist clients with compliance matters related to health and safety, animal welfare, and food standards.
    

• Dispute Resolution:
  

  • Represent clients in agricultural disputes, including boundary issues, tenancy disputes, and contractual disagreements.
    
  • Prepare and manage litigation cases, including drafting pleadings, attending court, and negotiating settlements.
    
  • Utilize alternative dispute resolution methods to achieve favorable outcomes for clients.
    

• Business Development:
  

  • Develop and implement strategies to expand the agricultural law practice.
    
  • Identify and pursue new business opportunities, building relationships with potential clients and industry stakeholders.
    
  • Participate in networking events, conferences, and seminars to enhance the firm’s profile within the agricultural sector.
    

• Team Collaboration and Leadership:
  

  • Work collaboratively with colleagues across the firm to provide comprehensive legal services to clients.
    
  • Mentor and support junior team members, sharing knowledge and expertise.
    
  • Contribute to the development and improvement of departmental processes and practices.
    

Requirements

• Education: Qualified Solicitor with a current practising certificate.
  
• Experience: Minimum of 5 years PQE in agricultural law, with significant experience handling a wide range of agricultural and rural matters.
  
• Skills:
  • Strong expertise in agricultural and rural affairs law.
    
  • Excellent analytical, negotiation, and problem-solving abilities.
    
  • Superior written and verbal communication skills.
    
  • Ability to manage a varied caseload effectively and efficiently.
    
  • High level of attention to detail and accuracy.
    
  • Proficiency in legal research and drafting.
    
  • Strong client relationship management skills.
    

Attributes:

• Professional and approachable demeanour.
  
• Strong ethical standards and integrity.
  
• Commitment to continuous professional development and excellence in client service.
  
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  
• Resilient and adaptable with a proactive attitude.
  

Requirements
Education: Qualified Solicitor with a current practising certificate. Experience: Minimum of 5 years PQE in agricultural law, with significant experience handling a wide range of agricultural and rural matters. Skills: Strong expertise in agricultural and rural affairs law. Excellent analytical, negotiation, and problem-solving abilities. Superior written and verbal communication skills. Ability to manage a varied caseload effectively and efficiently. High level of attention to detail and accuracy. Proficiency in legal research and drafting. Strong client relationship management skills. Attributes: Professional and approachable demeanour. Strong ethical standards and integrity. Commitment to continuous professional development and excellence in client service. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Resilient and adaptable with a proactive attitude.

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