Sonja Chen
Associate Attorney
Raised in the San Francisco Bay Area, Sonja Chen brings exceptional intelligence, strong legal acumen, and a genuine passion for helping injured people to her work as an associate attorney at The Hassell Law Group. Known for her compassionate approach, excellent communication skills, and dedication to her clients, Sonja has quickly become a valued member of the firm’s legal team and a favorite among our clients.
Sonja works closely with our senior attorneys representing individuals who have suffered serious injuries due to the negligence of others. She is actively involved in cases in the claims process, in arbitration, and in litigation. She helps build compelling cases that support our demands for substantial client compensation.
A skilled negotiator and thoughtful legal advocate, Sonja works closely with clients to fully understand the impact an accident has had, document their injuries and losses, and convey the full impact an accident has had on their lives throughout their case. She carefully gathers and evaluates medical records, financial documentation, and other critical evidence to strengthen claims and establish the full extent of recoverable damages.
Sonja also plays an important role in the litigation process, assisting clients with discovery, preparing them for depositions, and participating in mediation proceedings. Her attention to detail, analytical abilities, and thorough preparation help ensure that clients are confident and well-prepared at every stage of their case.
Sonja is deeply committed to achieving excellent outcomes for the firm’s clients. She understands that a serious injury can affect nearly every aspect of a person’s life, from their health and financial security to their ability to work and enjoy everyday activities. Her ability to connect with clients, understand their individual circumstances, and effectively communicate their stories makes her a key part of the firm’s personal injury litigation team.
Education and Professional Background
Sonja earned her Juris Doctor degree from the University of California College of the Law, San Francisco (formerly UC Hastings), where she distinguished herself academically by completing dual concentrations in Civil Litigation & Dispute Resolution and Social Justice Lawyering. She was the only graduate in her class to complete both concentrations.
In recognition of her commitment to the importance of negotiation and conflict resolution, Sonja was selected as the inaugural recipient of the Sheila Purcell Alternative Dispute Resolution Scholarship. She also received the prestigious CALI Award for Excellence in Online Dispute Resolution.
During law school, Sonja gained practical experience through the university’s Mediation Clinic, where she directly mediated disputes involving personal injury claims, contracts, and landlord-tenant matters in San Mateo County Small Claims Court. This experience helped her practice and further develop her skills in negotiation, dispute resolution, and reaching mutually acceptable agreements for parties with opposing positions.
Sonja further strengthened her conflict resolution and analytical skills through an internship with the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of the Ombudsman in Washington, D.C., where she assisted with confidential workplace disputes, conflict analysis, and policy recommendations.
Sonja’s approach to legal advocacy was also influenced by Professor Gerald López, a pioneering legal scholar and founder of the client-centered lawyering movement. His philosophy of listening to clients, understanding their lived experiences, and empowering them throughout the legal process continues to shape Sonja’s approach to representing injured individuals.
Sonja graduated law school in May of 2025. She joined The Hassell Law Group soon after and is licensed to practice law in California. Sonja earned her Bachelor of Arts in Sociocultural Anthropology from the University of California, San Diego, graduating with distinguished departmental honors.
Community Involvement and Personal Interests
Sonja’s commitment to helping others extends beyond her legal practice. During law school, she co-founded the institution’s first Disability Rights Association, promoting disability awareness, education, and inclusion within the legal community.
For more than a decade, Sonja also volunteered with Rotary International’s Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) program, mentoring young people and fostering leadership development throughout the San Francisco Bay Area and Chicago.
Outside the office, Sonja enjoys regenerative gardening, creating mixed-media art, and playing tennis.
Dedicated to Helping Injury Victims
As a member of The Hassell Law Group’s award-winning legal team, Sonja combines legal aptitude, thoughtful preparation, and exceptional dedication to client service. She takes pride in helping injured individuals navigate difficult circumstances, ensuring their voices are heard, their interests are protected, and their cases receive the attention they deserve.