Irwin Mitchell

Family

I’m committed to providing my clients with the highest standard of service and clear, strategic advice at what is often one of the most challenging times of their lives. I’m based in our Birmingham office but work with clients nationally on a range of family law matters.

I specialise in divorce and complex financial matters, as well as private law cases where children are involved. I advise a wide range of clients, including high-net-worth individuals, and am known for delivering practical, commercially focused guidance tailored to their individual circumstances.

I’m recognised in leading independent legal directories for my work as a family lawyer. The Legal 500 has described me as “the best children’s solicitor in the Midlands” and ranks me as a ‘leading partner’ for family law. Chambers and Partners ranks me in its highest tier for family/matrimonial work, noting that “Sarah is a brilliant lawyer.” I’m also named in the Spear’s Family Law Index as a Recommended Family Lawyer, reflecting my experience advising high net worth and ultra-high-net-worth individuals on complex divorce and family law matters.

I have particular expertise in high-value financial cases involving family trusts (co-working the with experts in our private client dispute resolution team), inherited wealth, business assets and pensions. These matters are often both technically complex and deeply personal, and I focus on ensuring that financial settlements properly reflect the structure, purpose and history of those assets.

I regularly advise on pre‑nuptial and post‑nuptial agreements, both in putting arrangements in place and in cases where those agreements are being relied on or challenged. My work helps clients achieve clarity and certainty, whether they are seeking to protect assets or resolve disputes.

My clients include individuals with inherited or family wealth, alongside those who have built up significant assets over their lifetime. I understand the importance of protecting wealth, businesses and long‑term financial security, and I take a thoughtful and strategic approach to achieving the right outcome.

I also have significant experience advising elderly and vulnerable clients. These matters may involve additional considerations such as capacity, safeguarding and the protection of assets, and I place particular emphasis on clear communication, reassurance and ensuring clients feel fully supported throughout.

I have written extensively on family law issues and regularly deliver training to other professional advisers, including accountants and wealth managers. This enables me to stay at the forefront of legal developments and to provide up‑to‑date, practical advice.

A key strength of my practice is the ability to draw on the breadth of expertise across Irwin Mitchell. I work closely with colleagues in private client, tax, trusts and estates, commercial and private client dispute resolution to provide a fully joined‑up, holistic service. This ensures that all aspects of a client’s circumstances are considered together, particularly in complex or high‑value cases where wider planning is critical.