The life of a property lawyer is a dynamic blend of client interactions, legal problem-solving, and meticulous case management. Here is an hour-by-hour glimpse into a typical day, offering insights into the diverse responsibilities and legal challenges encountered.
Starting the day
The day begins with a review of overnight emails and messages. A quick scan identifies urgent matters, such as a query from a client about a restrictive covenant affecting their proposed development site. Restrictive covenants can halt projects if not carefully navigated, so the next step involves drafting an email outlining potential solutions, including seeking a deed of release or modification. A more detailed email will likely be needed later in the week, once further information is available.
Reviewing active files
Time is allocated to reviewing ongoing matters. For example, there is a file for a commercial lease negotiation for a retail unit in Chelmsford. The landlord is requesting a forfeiture clause triggered by breach of repair obligations, which needs to be balanced with the tenant’s request for a fair opportunity to remedy any breach. This type of clause is typically standard in modern leases, but they need to be refined. Drafting clauses initially begins with favouring the landlord’s position, leaving room for the tenant’s solicitor to propose amendments as necessary. This approach ensures the clause aligns with lease law and agreed fundamental terms, while accommodating practical commercial considerations.
Client meetings
The first meeting of the day, which has been in the calendar for over a week, is with a new client seeking advice on acquiring a portfolio of agricultural properties. The meeting begins with discussing the client’s goals, such as diversification of income streams through renewable energy projects. Legal issues, such as the review of overage agreements or potential environmental liabilities, are flagged for investigation. Detailed notes are taken to prepare a follow-up action plan.
Departmental tasks
As part of the proactive department, time is dedicated to discussing team performance and workload distribution. Today’s focus is on streamlining workflows for conveyancing files to ensure timely completion. Additionally, strategies to improve client onboarding processes are discussed, including the use of AI technology to gather information efficiently while maintaining a personal touch.
Returning calls and emails
This slot is used to respond to calls and emails. A local developer has contacted the dispute team requesting advice on resolving a boundary issue. This involves my input on certain aspects of the title deeds, which will help my colleague decide whether alternative dispute resolution or court proceedings would be more effective. A concise yet thorough email is drafted outlining the options.
Pondering complex legal issues
Afternoons often involve deep work on intricate legal matters. Today’s task is drafting a deed of easement to allow access to a residential development, which is to be constructed. Legal challenges include ensuring the easement does not unduly restrict the property burdened by it while adequately protecting the rights of the benefiting property. Drafting is guided by research into past cases with similar issues, which helps create legally sound agreements while addressing specific client needs, and using the correct template from the start.
Preparing cost estimates
A potential client inquiry about purchasing a listed building for conversion into a boutique hotel requires preparing a detailed cost estimate. This includes legal fees, and several disbursements, such as searches. The estimate is presented alongside an outline of the step-by-step legal process involved.
Team collaboration
A colleague from the corporate department seeks advice on a property-related issue in a share purchase agreement. This involves reviewing the property aspects in the share purchase agreement itself and the wider transaction, including lease assignments and obligations to repair under the lease. Collaboration ensures the corporate team can deliver a seamless service to their client, backed by the right expertise.
Planning ahead
Time is spent reviewing the upcoming week’s schedule. This includes preparing for a presentation to a local business networking group about property transactions, drafting client reports for upcoming meetings, and finalising a checklist for on a multi-property acquisition to work on the follow day.
Wrapping up
The day concludes with a final review of the inbox, ensuring all urgent matters have been addressed. A final email to a client details the updates I received on their file, ensuring they are fully informed before the day ends. Any tasks requiring significant time are noted for prioritisation the next day.
A balancing act
Each day as a property lawyer involves balancing technical legal work, client engagement, and strategic management. Some tasks, like responding to emails or reviewing simpler files, may only take a few minutes to an hour. However, more complex tasks, such as drafting a lease or overage agreement, can take an entire afternoon or longer due to the level of detail and legal precision required. Whether it’s resolving disputes, drafting agreements, or supporting colleagues, the role demands both careful planning and adaptability. It’s this mix of responsibilities and the direct impact on clients’ goals that make the job both challenging and rewarding.
