In the past, environmental lawyers had a reputation for being overworked and underpaid. However, recent developments suggest a more optimistic outlook for attorneys specializing in environmental issues. One key factor in this shift is the Inflation Reduction Act, which introduced complex tax breaks and other incentives for clean energy. Parsing these intricate legislative elements requires skilled legal professionals, increasing the demand for environmental lawyers within Big Law.
Furthermore, with the decline of the Chevron deference, judicial scrutiny of environmental rules and regulations has intensified. This development further underscores the need for adept legal minds to navigate an increasingly complex regulatory landscape.
Against this backdrop, a new episode of the On The Merits podcast delves into the evolving career path for environmental lawyers. The episode features Emily Dwight, a second-year student at Vermont Law and Graduate School, in conversation with Bloomberg Law reporter Jennifer Hijazi. Dwight discusses her decision to focus not on nonprofit advocacy but on opportunities within Big Law, revealing how the career landscape for environmental lawyers is changing.
For more insights and to listen to the episode, click here.