Bricks & Mortar: Osborne Clarke’s David Powell on his career in residential law

LISTEN This latest episode of Bricks & Mortar sees Osborne Clarke’s David Powell look back on his career in the industry. The residential property lawyer – until recently head of the firm’s residential development and landowner sector group – has more than 30 years’ experience of advising developer clients, and here he shares what he’s learned during that time. He reflects on significant change – both in the legal profession and within real estate as a sector – and offers practical advice to those affected by the downturn, including how to be proactive and understanding your own strengths and weaknesses. Powell also has constructive advice for the next generation of property lawyers: “First and foremost, you’ve got to be a decent lawyer. You’ve got to have a reasonable eye for detail. But you have to be able to translate your knowledge of the law into layman’s language so that your clients can understand what you’re trying to do. That applies across the board in terms of law, but I think it’s perhaps even more important in the housebuilding industry. “The other thing is that you have to understand the sector. You have to understand what keeps your clients awake at night. Understand the politics. Understand what’s coming down the road in terms of new legislation and interpret that for your clients. Make sure you’re with them as a partner rather than just being reactive.” Listen below for the full discussion and David’s insights. Photo © Osborne Clarke