Meet the trainee

Name:

Tom Edwards

Position:

Trainee Solicitor

Current seat:

Environmental law, countryside and advocacy (aka ‘green team’)

Office:

Nottingham

Major casework

I have been involved in a wide variety of work from both the environment and countryside team as well as the advocacy unit.

The environment and countryside team undertakes a significant amount of work for Natural England and the Countryside Council for Wales as well as a selection of other Public Authorities. I have provided advice on a broad range of matters which include the licensing provisions of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, the scope of plan or project under the Conservation (Natural Habitats) Regulations 1994 and advice on proposed legislation for coastal access legislation. In terms of the advocacy unit I have been dealing with a claim to the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority for a client under the firm’s Pro Bono scheme.

Prior to becoming a trainee solicitor I was an Assistant Planner in the firm. I have been undertaking some planning law work in my current seat as the team is also part of the planning unit of the firm so my previous experience has proved very useful. Whilst I had previously been involved in Public Inquiries, I had never had an opportunity to conduct the advocacy. However this month I was given the opportunity to do just this for one of the firm’s Local Authority clients through EM LawShare.

Recent achievements

I recently undertook the advocacy for an appeal hearing  against the decision of the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) decision to refuse an award for one of our clients. The CICA had refused the award because they were of the view that our client was not eligible under the relevant scheme. The Criminal Injuries Compensation Appeals Panel found in favour of our client at the hearing and although the quantum of the award will be decided at a later date our client should receive a significant award and the highest award secured by the firm under the Scheme.

Life outside the law

Away from the office I enjoy socialising with friends, football, cooking, reading and travelling. I also have a bit of an addiction to music and spend far too much money on new music!

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