Name: Edward Allen
Firm: Enyo Law
Role: Partner
Trained at: Dechert
Year qualified: 2005
What’s your most vivid memory from being a trainee?
Being asked to serve court papers by hand on an alleged fraudster. He took exception, threatened physical violence and manhandled me out of his office.
I threw the papers at his feet and yelled that he had been served over my shoulder as I sprinted down Albemarle Street, jumping into the nearest cab. Apparently this does constitute valid service.
What is the wisest thing anyone ever said to you (and who said it)?
My mother’s advice has stood the test of time: never take yourself too seriously. As soon as you do, something is bound to happen which highlights your shortcomings.
Who (for better or worse) has been the most influential person in your career? Why?
Three people:
- My supervisor at Dechert, Andrew Hearn. A brilliant lawyer and, which is rare in the legal profession, a terrific teacher of young litigators. He also introduced me to my wife, so the debt of gratitude I owe personally and professionally is enormous.
- Enyo’s senior partners, Simon Twigden and Pietro Marino. The practice and business of litigation throws up endless, unique scenarios and judgement-calls. Having calm heads able to dispense wise advice in the heat of battle is invaluable.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to get to where you are/do the job you do?
A genuine passion for the role is key. The practice of law remains a vocation, not a job. If it becomes a grind, find something else.
Other than that, happily, law is a broad church. There is no one way, or roadmap to success. You have to find the path and environment which suits you best.
What’s your best friend from law school doing now?
Initially, he moved from private practice to an in-house role for a major rail infrastructure company. Subsequently, he moved sideways and is now the chief commercial officer, but still dabbles in law.
