Learn practical legal strategies to navigate complex family disputes, de-escalate conflict, and protect your clients' future without destructive courtroom battles.
Family law practitioners are often instructed at some of the most emotionally charged moments in a client's life. While clients frequently arrive seeking certainty, vindication, or immediate action, effective representation often requires a different approach: helping clients distinguish between issues worth pursuing and battles that may ultimately damage relationships, increase costs, and reduce the likelihood of achieving meaningful outcomes.
This session explores the practical and strategic decisions that shape successful family law cases. Participants will examine how evidence, negotiation, costs, proportionality, and client expectations influence case strategy, while considering techniques for reducing conflict, improving decision-making, and achieving outcomes that are both legally sound and commercially sensible.
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1 activity • 1 videos • duration: 1h 8m
Head of Private Family Law | 33 Bedford Row
Sapna is a family law barrister with over 15 years’ experience, specialising in private children law and financial relief. She is known for her ability to get to the heart of complex issues, combining deep legal knowledge with a warm, approachable manner. Clients often praise her as a good listener who explains intricate matters with clarity and empathy. Sapna is committed to finding innovative, constructive solutions for her clients, always seeking to resolve disputes amicably where possible. When all avenues have been exhausted, she is a determined and confident advocate in court, advancing her client’s case with skill and resolve. In a recent case, a Litigant in Person who was on the other side described Sapna’s presence as “calming and respectful” and thanked her for her consideration. Opponents frequently note her forceful and assured advocacy, balanced by professionalism and respect. Having represented both sides in disputes, Sapna is adept at anticipating arguments and seeing matters from every perspective. She is particularly passionate about supporting vulnerable adults and has been recognised for her work with clients facing mental health challenges. This year, she completed the Keble Dutton Advocacy Course—an intense and transformative experience that has further honed her advocacy skills. Beyond her practice, Sapna is a regular Middle Temple Advocacy Trainer, proud to give back to the profession. She is delighted to be a consultant at Carlsons Solicitors, with whom she has worked with for almost a year and, she has recently joined Kingsley Wood and looks forward to working with them. She is an active member of the Resolution LiP Committee. Outside of law, Sapna loves animals and children. She is always looking for ways to support anyone working in animal welfare and in/for underprivileged/abused children. Sapna maintains her well-being through boxing training, gym, and meditation. In her dreams, Sapna would spend her days as a ranger somewhere in Africa…..
