This is Allens

Sonia Millen

Sonia is a partner in our Disputes & Investigations practice, specialising in industrial relations.

I can't recall exactly how I was drawn to the law. Watching 12 Angry Men, Rumpole and Perry Mason may have played a part, but it has been a really varied experience with a lot of great challenge. I've not once regretted the decision to pursue a career in this field.

I started my career in employment law. I gained a broad understanding of all it encompasses, but it was industrial relations that truly captivated me. The challenge of thinking laterally to create solutions for significant organisational issues became a driving force in my career. This area of law allowed me to work closely with businesses, understand their objectives intimately and use my skills to help achieve them. The term 'strategic partner' can be used too much, but it genuinely encapsulates my role and what motivates me about my work.

A combination of people, clients and experiences have moulded me into the person and the lawyer that I am today. Having in-house experience has really shaped my approach to giving legal advice and enabled me to work with clients in a way that's tailored to their unique organisational context and alive to the internal landscape. I get to combine that insight with an independent external perspective in the advice that I provide.

Looking ahead, I see the relationship between legal advisers and clients continuing to deepen. A thorough understanding of a client’s business, built on trust and mutual respect, is crucial for delivering effective solutions. This depth of relationship allows us to anticipate and respond to changes, whether they be legislative, economic, or otherwise, ensuring that our legal advice is both relevant and practical.

Being part of Allens means being at the forefront of legal innovation and client service. The firm’s dedication to fostering a collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment enables us to deliver exceptional results. I am excited about the future, and eager to leverage my expertise to navigate the complexities of industrial relations alongside my clients.

Meet more new partners

Our newest partners are trusted by clients on issues as diverse as ESG, industrial relations and the energy transition to private equity, tax and intellectual property. Meet the leaders who are shaping the future of Allens and driving client success. View all profiles.