About Sarah
Sarah Phillips is a Partner in the Family team at Dean Wilson LLP with 16 years’ post-qualification experience and is a Resolution Accredited Specialist in Complex Financial Remedies and Private Law Children matters. She specialises in complex private law children disputes, financial remedy proceedings on divorce and dissolution of civil partnerships, cohabitation disputes, and protection from domestic abuse. Sarah regularly negotiates financial settlements and settles cases through mediation and solicitor-led negotiations, avoiding contentious court proceedings. She frequently represents parents in complex Children Act matters involving mental health issues, substance misuse, allegations of domestic abuse and coercive control, and has particular expertise in jurisdictional issues including removal from jurisdiction applications. Sarah is ranked in Chambers UK and the Legal 500, where she is praised for her settlement-focused approach and exceptional client care.
Areas of expertise
Notable cases
Negotiated 80% equity settlement with maintenance for five years; Successfully defended Specific Issue application to remove child from jurisdiction and secured Port Alert Order; Successfully acted for father at Fact Finding hearing, leading to shared care order following parenting intervention
Professional background
- Education
- MA Hons English Literature, University of Edinburgh (1990-1994)