Who We Are

From early on in her career, Danny realised that she didn’t fit the traditional mould of a lawyer – so she broke and rebuilt it.

This decision led to the creation of Danny King Legal in 2011, established out of the desire and necessity to build a truly differentiated practice, free from the rigidity of conventional norms.

As someone who embraces her neurodiversity, Danny is a strong proponent of thinking outside the box. This philosophy permeates the organisation’s culture and is embedded firmly in its DNA, both figuratively and literally.

Since its inception and with Danny at the helm, Danny King Legal has grown rapidly to become one of the leading specialist employment law firms today.

This success is not only a testament to the firm’s diverse expertise, client service and strong work ethic, but also demonstrates the power of an unorthodox mindset when solving complex issues for clients.

Sometimes referred to as the Grand Imperial Empress, Danny is often described as fun and loving, and has an unwavering commitment to empowering people and delivering the best possible outcomes for clients.

This has resulted in Danny being regularly recognised by the Doyle’s Guide since 2016, making both the employer and employee lists for NSW and nationally. More recently, Danny has been recognised as a pre-eminent practitioner in NSW for employees since 2021.

While Danny wished she could fly, simply because it looks fun, she never fails to retain a bird’s-eye view of a client’s situation, considering a range of legal and non-legal factors that inform the advice she provides.

Regardless of the matter, Danny always encourages clients and team members alike to be aspirational in their outlook. She leverages her experience and expertise to guide clients towards their goals, one step at a time.

Danny applies this same philosophy to growing and upskilling her team, where she focuses deeply on the individual, their experiences, aspirations, and how best they can be achieved.

Box ticking simply doesn’t exist in Danny’s world, and when hiring new team members, every individual is considered based on their merit and attitude, not their background.

In addition to managing Danny King Legal, as a serial ‘joiner’, Danny is actively involved in various initiatives, including the NSW Law Society, where she has been an Employment Law Committee Member since 2013.

Danny is also personally involved in an initiative led by the Molly Wardaguga Research Centre, which seeks to re-establish traditional maternity services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mothers and babies on Country.

Danny King speaking to Lawyers Weekly about her business philosophy, how she started Danny King Legal, the importance of being authentic, and more…

Kevin joined Danny King Legal in 2014 and is one of three partners who drives the strategy and growth of the firm.

As a long-time martial artist, former educator and public servant, Kevin channels a warrior-scholar mentality, balancing the need for enforcement of legal rights contextualised within their non-legal personal and commercial objectives.

For Kevin, achieving meaningful and lasting solutions to legal issues requires a degree of self-reflection and courage from all parties involved. While he is unwavering in his determination to fight for his clients, Kevin always takes an analytical approach to conflict resolution, and seeks to build client value in outcomes, which does away with the assumption that legal matters must be strictly adversarial. This requires helping clients to not just deal with immediate issues, but to seed longer-term disciplined practices that are considered, fair, and mindful for future growth.

Kevin brings a grassroots approach to management of the firm, which he believes is pivotal in helping to cultivate and strengthen the skills of the team. While he has high expectations, he expects others to hold him to the same standard.

He has been instrumental in building Danny King Legal’s people-centric culture and is a strong proponent of the notion that by investing in the firm’s people, great client results will follow.

While he wished he had the ability to read minds, he will settle for a lifelong practice in helping parties to communicate, which is more exciting anyway.

Working for both employee and employer clients, and having himself been immersed in public and private institutions, Kevin has developed a balanced and philosophical contextualisation for clients which ensures he is able to deliver insightful and impactful results.

Besides being a partner at Danny King Legal, Kevin does pro-bono work as a part of the firm’s commitment to the Fair Work Commission’s cost-free Workplace Advice Service. He continues to train in judo and BJJ, and enjoys spending time with his family.

As a Partner at Danny King Legal, Sonia, joined the team in 2021, returning to private legal practice following many years of working in-house.

After acquiring a wealth of valuable experience within corporate organisations and for a union, Sonia ultimately realised that her true passion lay in directly helping and representing people, making her a natural fit for the firm.

Having finally found a workplace which embodies the same set of beliefs and values as her own, Sonia is grateful for the inclusive and supportive culture, and views joining Danny King Legal as one of her greatest professional accomplishments.

As a strong team player with a no-nonsense and straightforward approach to advising clients and working with colleagues, Sonia exudes conviction and brings an authentic and bubbly personality to her work.

While she wishes she possessed super-human speed to help people more quickly, Sonia’s drive and determination ensure that her clients always feel supported and are looked after.

Regardless of whether it’s providing legal advice, offering emotional support, or simply listening to another human vent, Sonia is driven by a desire to help, solve challenges, and make a positive and meaningful impact to people’s lives.

In addition to her work at Danny King Legal, Sonia also volunteers as a Senior Manager and adviser to the Board for Diverse Women in Law where she advocates for gender and cultural diversity across the industry.

In her spare time, Sonia likes socialising, all things sports, food, and wine.

Sonia is an avid lover of cricket and considers herself a red wine aficionado.

Natasha joined Danny King Legal in 2021 as a Solicitor within the Legal Team.

As a knowledgeable, empathetic, and hardworking individual, Natasha is a good listener who brings an open-minded and compassionate approach to her work.

She has been recognised by her clients for her approachable, accommodating, and understanding nature, and is acknowledged for her diligent work ethic.

Natasha is especially interested in discrimination, harassment and bullying matters, and has a distinct focus on wage underpayments, bullying, and workplace health and safety.

Prior to joining Danny King Legal, Natasha worked as a Legal Assistant and later as a Paralegal at Maurice Blackburn Lawyers where she was a member of the Cultural Diversity Group.

Additionally, she has also had experience as a Court Monitor with Legal Transcripts, working in the Supreme Court, District Court, Land and Environment Court

In her time at Danny King Legal, Natasha has established herself as a versatile lawyer with a bright future ahead of her.

Outside of work, Natasha likes to travel, go on road trips, and is passionate about cooking. She has a big family and enjoys spending time with them, along with her friends.

Elijah joined Danny King Legal in 2021 as a Solicitor.

Having grown up on a sheep and wheat farm in the Western Australian wheatbelt, and with years of experience in customer service facing roles, Elijah has acquired a diverse skill set and brings fresh perspectives and insights to client matters.

An ardent problem solver with a zest for unravelling complex challenges within employment law, Elijah is passionate about respondent work and advising employers who may be faced with a range of issues spanning unfair dismissal claims, breaches of trade restraints, and payment disputes.

Never a ‘yes man’, Elijah is an ethical practitioner who prides himself on offering advice which he believes is right for clients’ needs, not necessarily their wants.

Elijah’s tireless work ethic combined with his dedication to clients has earned him a place on the prestigious Doyle’s Guide as a ‘Rising Star’, within the Employment and WHS Law, New South Wales category. 

He is a member of the Young Employment Law Society as well as the Industrial Relations Committee.

To unwind, Elijah loves cooking, travelling, and returning home to Perth to spend time with his family.

William (Will) Noonan is a Solicitor who joined the legal team at Danny King Legal in 2021. He has a particular interest in expanding his advocacy skills with the firm through alternative dispute resolution.

Will holds a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) and a Bachelor of Arts, with a double major in History and Political Science from the Australian National University. Following the completion of his GDLP, Will was admitted to both the New South Wales Supreme Court and High Court of Australia in mid-2021. While studying, Will also attended the London School of Economics, where he studied advanced negotiation and mediation. During this time, he was elected to the ACT Australian Republic Movement Board as its Youth Convenor, and was the President of the corresponding university club.

As the youngest of seven children, he quickly learnt how to express his opinions and defend them, all while learning the importance of having a supportive unit around him. His approach to the law stems from time spent in his father’s law office during school holidays, where he first saw the importance of lawyer-client relationships, during what can often be the most stressful times in a client’s life. Will began his career there, gaining experience in the comings and goings of running a small family business and learning the foundations of property and succession law in practice. Following this, Will commenced his role as a Paralegal with an ASX-listed company, reporting directly to the General Counsel, before becoming Legal Counsel, assisting the business with employment and consumer finance matters, resolving disputes, and corporate risk activities.

While in the early years of his legal career, Will is focused on learning all he can about improving the client experience, and the more nuanced parts of employment law. He enjoys being part of the supportive and collaborative culture of Danny King Legal.

When he is not working, Will loves to get his hands on anything creative, whether it is experimenting with flavours to create new dishes to liven up the weekly dinners, or even playing with colour and form to create vibrant artworks.

Practice Manager

As Practice Manager, Derrick goes by many names including Dez or Dezza, but is universally known within the office for his honesty, methodical work style, and meticulous attention to detail.

As a born organiser, Derrick has an unwavering determination to getting jobs done and improving internal systems, making him an invaluable member of the team.

In addition to ensuring the smooth operation of the office, Derrick manages all matters relating to accounts and finance, liaises directly with clients, and oversees the Paralegal Team.

While Derrick wishes he had super-fast speed to get all his jobs done faster, he arguably already has it!

Described as honest, upfront, and caring, Derrick has been working in the legal industry since 1997 where he began working as Executive Assistant to barristers, before moving into Office Manager and Paralegal roles.

In his spare time, Derrick loves gardening and enjoying an active lifestyle including cycling and going to the gym.

Demi joined Danny King Legal in 2022 as a valuable member of the Paralegal Team.

As a passionate, friendly, and empathetic individual, Demi is motivated to do everything she can for the clients she works with. She prides herself on her non-judgmental attitude and broad perspective, and in utilising her diligence and attention to detail to serve clients from all backgrounds and matters.

With an acute sense of justice and a fierce determination to help vulnerable people, Demi particularly values assisting our clients who may have experienced discrimination, bullying and harassment, or unfair dismissal.

She also currently assists with industrial relations matters at a union and participates in volunteering work within the not-for-profit sector. While her duties vary, Demi is especially interested in assisting with research to accelerate law reform on matters relating to modern slavery and ESG, with the view to strengthen labour rights where needed.

Demi has completed her Bachelor of International and Global Studies, which has given her the opportunity to work overseas in places such as Washington D.C. and Fiji, and is currently completing her Bachelor of Laws (LLB) at the University of Sydney.

In her spare time, Demi likes writing adventure fantasy stories, and loves to go ocean swimming.

Anshika, ‘Shika’ or sometimes ‘Shikz’ joined Danny King Legal in 2021 as a member of the Paralegal Team.

Driven by a strong desire to help vulnerable people, Anshika always wanted to pursue law from a young age and hopes to harness her skills and expertise to make a positive impact in society.

She is particularly interested in matters relating to discrimination, bullying and harassment, especially when it involves working with the complainant, and is committed to working with clients to deliver tailored solutions and advice which makes a tangible difference.

In her role as a Paralegal, Anshika brings a hard-working and enthusiastic approach to everything she does, but wishes she had a photographic memory to help her retain unlimited information for clients and her studies.

Anshika recently returned home on exchange from the University of Calgary and was also the 2021 Director of Career Engagement for the Macquarie University Law Society (MULS).

Additionally, she organises, participates, and judges a variety of student mooting competitions, is part the Diverse Women in Law Society, and writes content for the Indian Legal Connect Facebook page, a group she helped establish to assist the Indian-Australian community on relevant laws and socio-legal issues.

Previously, Anshika held the position of Executive Officer of Competitions (Advocacy) at the MULS, and volunteered on the Community Outreach Subcommittee for the Paramatta Women’s Shelter.

In her spare time, Anshika loves socialising with friends, performing arts and playing soccer.

Executive Experience Manager

Jaden (Jae) Colbert joined the Administration Team at Danny King Legal in 2021 and is now DKL’s Executive Experience Manager.

With a strong background in customer service, combined with the ability and agility to juggle multiple projects at once, Jaden is responsible for spearheading various initiatives including managing all marketing and communication activity across the firm.

Additionally, they also oversee the implementation of process and systems improvements, and manage professional partners, suppliers, and the Administration Team.

A firm believer in leaning into mistakes and learning from them, Jaden’s dedication and drive is regularly recognised by colleagues, and they apply a considered and diligent work ethic to their duties.

Despite being armed with good instincts and sensibilities, Jaden still wishes they had the ability to pause time so they could stop and reflect on key decisions before making them – and get a few more hours out of the day, of course.

Drawn to the legal industry by the desire to help people, Jaden’s motivation comes from being part of a team which is able to make a tangible and positive difference to people’s lives.

Outside of work, Jaden loves entertaining with friends, spending time with family, and cooking.

Administrative Assistant

Lara joined Danny King Legal in 2022 as a member of the legal Administration Team.

Described by colleagues as a friendly, helpful and hardworking individual, Lara’s bubbly personality combined with her passion for helping people make her an important part of the team.

In her role, Lara handles a range of tasks including managing client files, scheduling appointments, preparing hearing documents, and drafting correspondence.

While she wishes she had the ability to ‘mind read’ to be better prepared for the unexpected, her pragmatism, efficiency and diligence mean she doesn’t have to.

In addition to her studies, Lara is involved in various other initiatives at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) including the Women’s Collective where she is a Social Media and Marketing Coordinator, Content Writer and a member of the Law Society.

Previously, she was a member of UNSW’s Business Society, Capital W, and was previously involved in debating and mooting.

Prior to working at Danny King Legal, Lara was a student intern at a small family law firm and has extensive experience working in customer-service facing roles.

In her spare time Lara enjoys hanging out with friends and going to the beach.

Administrative Assistant

Avalua joined Danny King Legal in 2022 as a member of the Legal Administration Team. She works collaboratively with the Paralegals and the Senior Legal Team to deliver client services.

With a thirst for knowledge, Avalua loves learning new things and highly values the dynamic, healthy and supportive work environment which Danny King Legal offers.

While she wishes she could see into the future which would indicate how to act in the initial stages of a matter, Avalua’s dedication, perseverance and commitment to achieving good client outcomes more than make up for it.

Avalua is currently completing a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in Politics and International Relations with a minor in Social Justice, at the University of Notre Dame. She also plans to complete a Juris Doctor Degree upon completion of her arts degree.

Before joining the firm, Avalua worked for several years in retail and customer service, where she gained valuable experience in a variety of fast-paced and high-pressure environments and workplaces.

When she isn’t at work, Avalua is spending time with her family and friends, volunteering at her local church, or travelling.

Passionate about writing, Avalua was proudly awarded the Philippa McDonald Cup in 2018 and 2019 for her social justice pieces.

She is also passionate about her Samoan culture and speaks the language fluently.

Administrative Assistant

Antony, joined Danny King Legal in 2022 as part of the Administration Team.  

 In his role, Antony is responsible for providing ongoing support to the Paralegal and Senior Legal Team, including managing calendars, and assisting with the management of client files and case documents.  

While studying at University of Technology Sydney, Antony is interested in learning as much as possible within the legal profession. 

Antony’s easy-going personality and positive attitude, combined with his ambition and interest in HR and employment relations, make him a valuable part of the Danny King Legal team.  

While he wishes he had super intelligence to enhance his efficiency at work, his tenacity and general can-do attitude ensure that he always shows up and delivers for the team.  

In addition to his studies, Antony is part of the Elite Athlete Program, where he plays AFL for The University of Technology Sydney. His involvement in this program, and his long history of community involvement, has contributed to his ability to be a collaborative team player.  

Antony makes the most of his free time in between studying and working by going to the beach or spending time with friends and family.

Graduate-at-Law

Anthony joined Danny King Legal at the beginning of 2023 as a Graduate-at-Law within the Legal Team.

His calling to law started from a young age, driven by a desire to help people and make a positive impact in their lives.

Despite wishing he could fly, which would energise him in the mornings, Anthony’s passion and empathy for helping clients involved in discrimination or unfair dismissal matters provides him with more than enough impetus.

Prior to joining Danny King Legal, Anthony worked as a Legal and Contracts Coordinator for Screen Australia, and for Sydney Law Group and Woolworths Group as a Paralegal.

Within these roles, Anthony has accumulated substantial experience with assisting lawyers in matter progression including drafting various agreements, client correspondence, court forms, wills and other testamentary documents.

He has also led extensive mediation and hearing preparation, and managed settlement processes including document review and file audit.

Anthony is passionate about film and theatre and, in his former role at Screen Australia, he helped with a range of initiatives to assist COVID-impacted cinemas and production entities who were facing significant financial challenges.

In his spare time, Anthony enjoys going to the gym, board games and tennis.

Solicitor

Jesse joined Danny King Legal at the beginning of 2023 as a Solicitor.

With a passion for helping others, coupled with a strong interest in advocacy, Jesse decided to pursue a career in law where he felt he could make the biggest positive impact to society.

Having worked previously in various firms as a Paralegal, Jesse has gained invaluable experience across family law, criminal law, migration law, and now employment law.

From whistle-blower cases, to matters involving unfair dismissal or discrimination and harassment, Jesse is particularly motivated by being able to help employees.

At Danny King Legal, Jesse takes a personal and empathetic approach where he prides himself on providing clients with the highest level of legal advice.

While he wishes he could freeze and rewind time to hit deadlines perfectly and fit more into his day, Jesse’s strong work ethic and diligence ensure that client needs are always met.

Jesse highly values the supportive culture which Danny King Legal provides and enjoys unwinding with the team for social drinks on Fridays.

Outside of work, Jesse enjoys playing video games, and listening to music.