Sonya Nicole Hamlin is an American real-estate lawyer who gained fame as the ex-wife of the English actor, producer, musician and DJ Idris Elba.
She met Idris in 2005, when she had just started her career as a lawyer. However, by that time, she had already made a name for herself.
After dating for several months, Sonya and Idris got married in Vegas in 2006, but divorced after a few months.
What happened to their marriage, and what is Sonya up to now? Here are some facts about her life, career, marriage and achievements.
Who is Sonya Nicole Hamlin?
Sonya Nicole Hamlin was born on January 1, 1974, in Glenn Dale, Maryland, United States, that is is 49 years old as of 2023.
Holds an American nationality and belongs to the African-American ethnicity.
She is a Christian and has a straight sexuality. She has a height of 5 feet 5 inches and a weight of 68 kilograms and has black hair and brown eyes.
Sonya attended the American University Washington College of Law, where she graduated with a law degree, then founded the Sonya Nicole Hamlin Law Firm, which specializes in real-estate law.
She also advocates for survivors of sexual assault and educates the public on sexual assault prevention.
Net worth
As of 2023, she boasts a net worth of approximately $2 million, derived from both her successful law career and strategic real estate investments.
Holding multiple properties in Maryland and Nevada, she leverages these assets for income.
In addition to her personal earnings, Sonya also receives alimony from her former husband, Idris Elba, whose net worth is estimated at $25 million.
Sonya Nicole Hamlin husband
Sonya Nicole Hamlin, a lawyer, and Idris Elba, a renowned actor, producer, musician, and DJ, married impulsively on April 9, 2006, at the Little White Wedding Chapel in Las Vegas after meeting in 2005.
Their relationship faced challenges, with Sonya’s career flourishing while Idris struggled professionally.
They parted ways due to these differences, leading to Sonya filing for divorce in Maryland in June 2006.
However, Maryland law required a year of marriage before divorce, prompting Sonya to file in Nevada, where they wed.
Sonya attributed their split to Idris prioritizing his career and succumbing to external pressures that emphasized his single status for image enhancement, revealing the impact of his past relationships and influential friends on their marriage.
Sonya Nicole Hamlin children
She does not have any children of her own. She was a stepmother to Idris Elba’s son, Winston, from his marriage to Hanne Norgaard. Idris also has a daughter, Isan, from his relationship with Desiree Newberry, and another son, Makonnen, from his relationship with Naiyana Garth.
Sonya Nicole Hamlin achievements
She is a successful lawyer and a real-estate mogul who has handled several high-profile cases and has won many awards for her legal services.
Is also a philanthropist and a social activist, who supports various causes, such as sexual assault prevention, women empowerment, education and health.
She has donated to several charities and organizations, such as the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN), the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), and the United Negro College Fund (UNCF).
Sonya Nicole Hamlin career
Founder of the Sonya Nicole Hamlin Law Firm, is a distinguished real estate lawyer providing comprehensive legal support for transactions such as buying, selling, leasing, and property development.
Specializing in property disputes, zoning, land use, environmental issues, and taxes, she leads a skilled team dedicated to delivering high-quality services.
Additionally, Sonya is a successful real estate investor and developer with properties in Maryland and Nevada, generating income through rentals and profitable sales.
Actively engaged in new projects like residential and commercial developments, hotels, and resorts, Sonya employs her legal expertise and business acumen to make strategic decisions, demonstrating a keen understanding of market trends and opportunities.
