Land Use Partner

Job Overview

A well-established law firm is seeking a partner-level attorney to join their Land Use Law team. This role involves working on a diverse range of matters, including zoning, permitting, leasing, title and easements, land title, planning, and regulatory proceedings. The firm represents property owners, developers, nonprofits, investors, utilities, and land trusts. Candidates will handle matters such as environmental compliance, boundary disputes, and energy-related projects, including solar development and transmission line placement. The ideal candidate should have at least seven years of experience in land use law and be ready to take on complex cases while working in a collaborative and supportive environment.

Location

• Portland, ME.

Duties

• Represent clients, including developers, property owners, and utilities, in zoning, permitting, and regulatory matters.
• Handle legal proceedings related to land use, including litigation and contract disputes.
• Advise clients on planning and land use regulations, environmental compliance, and boundary disputes.
• Manage matters concerning easements, land title, and related real estate issues.
• Represent clients before local, state, and federal boards, environmental agencies, and courts.
• Collaborate with senior counsel and associates on complex land use and energy-related projects.
• Provide strategic legal advice to clients in matters involving land use development and energy projects, including solar development.

Requirements

• A minimum of seven years of experience in land use law, with a focus on zoning, permitting, land title, and related matters.
• Strong academic credentials and a proven ability to handle multiple complex projects.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently while collaborating with senior attorneys and associates.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, including the ability to clearly explain complex legal issues.
• Strong research skills and a deep understanding of land use regulations, environmental compliance, and planning.
• Maine Bar membership is required but not a condition to hiring.

Education

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.

Certifications

• Active membership in the Bar of the jurisdiction(s) where the candidate is licensed to practice.

Skills

• Expertise in land use law, including zoning, permitting, and regulatory processes.
• Strong negotiation and client relationship management skills.
• Proven ability to manage litigation and regulatory proceedings.
• Experience working with environmental compliance and energy-related land use matters.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and in a team-oriented, collaborative environment.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, with an ability to present legal arguments clearly and persuasively.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Retirement plan with firm contributions.
• Paid time off (PTO) and holidays.
• Professional development and training opportunities.

Located in Portland, Maine, the law firm serves clients in Portland and the New England area. Its practice areas include Business & Corporate Law, Business Reorganization & Insolvency, Construction, Criminal Defense/White Collar Defense, Education Law, Employment, Trust and Estate Planning and Administration, Intellectual Property, Media & Technology, Land Use & Environmental Law, Litigation & Trial, Public Utilities & Transportation, and Real Estate, Finance, and Real Estate Succession Planning.