Joel Russell provides legal and planning services to public officials, landowners, conservationists, and developers committed to a sustainable future. He works with clients who want to strengthen urban centers, protect the environment, and preserve the special qualities of the countryside. Joel drafts planning and zoning documents that resolve conflicts between development and conservation, using "smart growth" concepts and the design principles of the New Urbanism.

His clients share a commitment to build and revitalize traditional town and city centers, preserve natural resources, agriculture, and open space, meet housing and economic needs, and foster community dialogue. He listens carefully to the community and implements creative solutions that are both sustainable and tailored to each community's needs. In all of his work, his goal is to achieve practical results for clients.