Katy Allen is a partner in the Labour, Employment, and Human Rights Group in Vancouver. Known for her practical and results-oriented approach, Katy focuses on providing tailored, strategic advice that addresses the specific business needs of each client. She advises and represents employers across a wide range of industries and across a wide range of matters, including labour relations, employment standards, human rights, wrongful dismissal, and workplace investigations. Katy regularly works closely with our corporate lawyers to offer comprehensive support on labour and employment issues arising from business transactions.
With significant experience handling trials and hearings at all levels, Katy has successfully represented clients before the Labour Relations Board, Employment Standards Branch and Tribunal, Human Rights Tribunal, Provincial Court, Supreme Court, and Court of Appeal. She is skilled in navigating labour board hearings and labour arbitrations, where her advocacy style has delivered favorable outcomes for her clients. Katy’s practice also includes interpreting and negotiating collective agreements, addressing post-employment competition, and providing counsel on sensitive workplace issues. She works proactively with employers to resolve issues before they escalate to litigation, including offering strategic guidance during investigations into workplace misconduct, such as harassment investigations.
Outside of her practice, Katy is the Chair of the Board for the Downtown Eastside Women’s Centre, an organization that provides shelter, advocacy, and support to women in the Downtown Eastside of Vancouver. Katy is also an active member of the Allard Law Alumni Association and sits on Lawson’s student recruiting committee. After law school, she clerked for six judges of the BC Supreme Court.