Public Interest Lawyers

Overview

Why Working at Public Interest Lawyers Can Be Exciting for Attorneys and Staff

Public Interest Lawyers (PIL) is a renowned law firm that has been at the forefront of fighting for justice and upholding the rule of law since its establishment in 1999. Founded by Solicitor Phil Shiner, PIL has built a strong reputation for its tenacity and skill in litigating cases at the highest level to ensure that the rights of individuals and communities are protected.

From its early years, PIL has been a pioneer in Claimant Environmental Judicial Review cases, successfully challenging the proposed construction of various facilities, such as incinerators and open-cast mines, where authorities failed to comply with their legal obligations and duties. This demonstrated PIL's commitment to holding those in power accountable and ensuring that environmental concerns are taken seriously.

Over the years, PIL has expanded its scope and applied its exceptional brand of litigation to a wide range of Judicial Review cases. These include landmark cases such as representing Ghurkha prisoners of war and challenging the UK Government's support of Israel's unlawful actions in the Occupied Palestinian Territories on behalf of Al-Haq. PIL has also been involved in high-profile cases related to the Iraq War, seeking justice for victims of human rights abuses committed by UK forces.

Closer to home, PIL has used the law to challenge abuses of power by both the central government and local authorities. In recent times, PIL has been instrumental in legal challenges against the austerity measures imposed by the coalition government. This has included successful Judicial Review cases against the closure of libraries in Gloucestershire, Somerset, and Surrey. PIL has also fought against the government's unlawful Workfare Program, which exploited unemployed individuals by forcing them to work for free or face benefit sanctions.

PIL has also been involved in defending the right of individuals to bring Judicial Review proceedings, even in cases where the claimant is not directly affected by the actions of the defendant. This commitment to protecting the rights of all individuals, regardless of their personal circumstances, sets PIL apart as a champion for justice.

Furthermore, PIL has taken on cases related to education, challenging the Secretary of State's failure to provide for the educational needs of young people in local authority care under the Children's Act 1989. The firm has also represented individuals who have alleged unlawful actions by the UK armed forces in Afghanistan, as well as multinational companies in Africa.

Joining PIL offers attorneys and staff the opportunity to be part of a team that fights for the rights of ordinary people in Britain and beyond. In a challenging period of history, where the executive often tries to impose measures on a society already under strain, PIL provides a voice for those who need it most. The firm's dedicated team is always ready to help individuals fight for their rights against the unfettered power of the executive, whether the battles take place on UK soil or abroad.

Working at PIL means being part of a firm that has a track record of making a real difference in the lives of individuals and communities. The firm's commitment to justice, its expertise in litigation, and its willingness to take on challenging cases make it an exciting and fulfilling place to work for attorneys and staff who are passionate about fighting for the rights of others.