In this video, we examine the role of an environmental lawyer as a fulfilling sustainability career. We look at what an environmental lawyer does in their career, the skills and education required to be an environmental lawyer, how much an environmental lawyer makes and how to become an environmental lawyer. Whether you are an environment science, environmental studies, or environmental sustainability student - this video will help you make informed career decisions!
An environmental lawyer works to represent clients in legal issues regarding the environment. Issues include cases regarding clean technology, water pollution, land management, climate change, environmental rights, and international environmental law. In general, lawyers provide legal counsel to individuals, businesses and governments. Lawyers advise clients on legal matters, conduct research, represent clients in court, form legal documents, and perform administrative tasks. There are numerous other types of lawyers in Canada, including business and regulatory lawyers, civil lawyers, criminal lawyers, and immigration lawyers. Lawyers can work in private law firms, in-house consul, advocacy groups, and federal, provincial, and municipal governments. Environmental lawyers can also assist in helping companies become more sustainable and alter business practices to achieve this goal. Environmental lawyers can fight for regulations regarding pollution, resource use, biodiversity conservation, and waste management. Environmental law practice often requires an understanding of both legal and scientific language. The daily responsibilities of an environmental lawyer depends based on their employer. Duties can range from meeting with clients, conducting research, and participating in court proceedings. In Canada, Environmental lawyers can work with clients such as Environment Canada, the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency and Parks Canada.
Skills required to perform the job of an environmental lawyer include:
• Strong ability to perform legal research
• Verbal and written communication
• Public speaking
• Organizational skills
• Time management
• Reading comprehension
• Critical thinking
• Decision making
• Advocacy
• Project management
• Analytical skills
• Negotiation
• Attention to detail
• Interpersonal skills
• Initiative
• Independence
• Collaboration
• Logical reasoning
• Analytical ability
Education required to become an environmental lawyer includes at least three years of an undergraduate degree to apply to Canadian law schools. Admission to law school additionally requires the completion of the Law School Admission Test (LSAT). After the successful admission and completion of a J.D./LL.B. program from a Canadian law school, an individual must article under the supervision of a licensed lawyer for ten months or complete the Law Society of Ontario’s Law Practice Program. The next step is to successfully complete the Barrister and Solicitor examinations.
The average base salary for an environmental lawyer is $132,820/year in Ontario, with entry level positions earning on average $92,422/year and senior levels earning $165,117/year.
An career in environmental law is a great career for an individual interested in law and the sciences. This career allows an individual to lead in the environmental industry and advocate for change.
