Sophie Pennington
PartnerAbout Sophie
Sophie is a highly regarded health law specialist with significant expertise in advising public hospitals through the Victorian Managed Insurance Authority, the Victorian Government’s insurer and risk adviser, medical and other health practitioners through their medical defence organisations, private hospitals and specialty practises, including diagnostic imaging services, through commercial insurers. She has been recognised as a Leading Medical Negligence and Malpractice Lawyer (Defendant) in Doyle’s Guide.
What she does
Sophie acts in defence of both litigated and unlitigated civil claims, coronial investigations and inquests, and disciplinary proceedings. She regularly provides guidance to insurers on indemnity, contribution and apportionment, and issues of risk management across the health portfolio.
Qualifications
Bachelor of Laws from the University of Sydney. She also has a Bachelor of Japanese Studies from the Australian National University.
Life before Sparkes
Sophie was most recently a Partner at Australia’s largest law firm. Prior to returning to private practice over nine years ago, Sophie was the Head of Medical Defence and Services for Avant, Australia’s largest medical defence organisation. This unique combination of in-house and private practice experience gives her a comprehensive understanding of the medico-legal landscape and the challenges faced by health professionals and insurers alike.
Life outside of Sparkes
Sophie loves spending time with her two children and husband, preferably near the beach. She loves sewing, playing the piano, exercising and dabbling in learning new languages.