Advocacy Attorney

We are seeking a motivated land use associate attorney to join a highly respected boutique law firm's team in Jersey City. The ideal candidate has 1–3 years of hands-on experience with municipal land use, zoning, permitting, and administrative hearings in New Jersey, strong client-facing skills, and an ability to manage matter workflow efficiently.
Key Responsibilities

Represent clients before planning boards, zoning boards of adjustment, and municipal agencies in New Jersey.
Prepare and file applications, variances, site plan materials, and municipal permit packages.
Draft and negotiate land use-related agreements, escrow/land development conditions, covenants, and consent orders.
Conduct legal research and prepare memos on municipal land use statutes, local ordinances, and case law.
Advise developers, property owners, municipalities, and institutional clients on compliance, due diligence, and risk mitigation.
Prepare hearing materials, witness examinations, and legal arguments; present at hearings.
Assist with land use litigation, municipal appeals, and administrative enforcement matters.
Coordinate with planners, engineers, surveyors, and other consultants; manage discovery and case/document organization.
Maintain client communications and assist partners in business development and proposals.

Qualifications

• J.D. from an accredited law school.
• 1–3 years practicing land use, zoning, municipal law, or closely related area.
• Admission to the New Jersey bar preferred; NJ bar-eligible candidates will be considered.
• Practical experience with planning/zoning board procedures, variances, site plans, and municipal permitting.
• Strong legal research, writing, and oral advocacy skills.
• Ability to organize and manage multiple matters and meet deadlines.
• Professional demeanor, client-service orientation, and collaborative teamwork.
• Familiarity with local land use ordinances, the Municipal Land Use Law (MLUL), and relevant NJ case law preferred.