Sarah Jane Lenihan
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I have far-reaching experience in family law, specialising in high-net-worth matrimonial matters which are often complex with an international element. Whether this be due to assets/businesses/trusts held outside of the jurisdiction or one of the parties living outside of the jurisdiction.
My key strengths in practice come from my robust, quick-thinking and technical approach combined with the ability to build a rapport with vulnerable, and often very distressed clients quickly.
I am a skilled negotiator and litigator and highly regarded for my strategic approach providing tailored solutions to achieve the best possible outcomes for my clients.
Relevant experiences and positions
In 2023 I was awarded Family Law Partner of the Year by CityWealth for the complex matrimonial cases I have been involved with.
I was recognised by The Legal 500 2024 as a ‘Leading Individual’ given the combination of technical complexity and emotionally challenging matters I undertake.
My outstanding sector expertise is demonstrated by my Family Law Advanced Accreditation from The Law Society, demonstrating my specialist knowledge in family law with particular expertise in financial remedy and domestic abuse.
I am regularly quoted in articles and media including on the radio and television as I am considered an expert in my field. In addition I have had articles published in the Family Law Journal, Solicitors Journal and the Resolution magazine available to members, The Review. I am also part of the Financial Remedy journal blog team and you will find regular blogs on the latest hot topics published by me; I regularly present webinars for peers on domestic abuse, pensions and separation of cohabitants.
I am a Partner in the matrimonial department at Dawson Cornwell and we are proud to say that we shape family law. We have the most reported cases than any other family law firm and we are continually changing the law for the better, for our clients. The reason our cases are reported is because they are complex and novel points of law. We are not afraid to fight for our clients and challenge the system until we achieve the right result.
All of our cases have an element of international complexity to them whether this be due to the location of our clients/spouses or business/trusts/property portfolios/investments in alternative jurisdictions.
Some personal questions
What recent developments did you notice in this area of the law?
The greater use of ADR (alternative dispute resolution) due to the increase in transparency in the English Courts many clients are much more willing to try mediation / have private hearings to avoid publicity. This often encourages cases to settle earlier in a fair way.
What are your predictions or worries for the future in this area of the law?
The delays. The Courts in England are backlogged and can take an extraordinary length of time to have a matter resolved in the event that a matter cannot be settled. The delay is often advantageous to one party and that is used however the Courts are becoming much more aware of this conduct and being proactive to encourage parties to settle outside of Court.
What is your advice to people who are entering into an international marriage?
Enter into a prenuptial agreement and ensure legal advice is obtained from any jurisdiction where a divorce may be issued.
Below is a link to a case in which we were instructed by the husband and we were able to successfully uphold the prenuptial agreement. If entered into properly and it is fair, it will be upheld.
https://www.bailii.org/ew/cases/EWHC/Fam/2023/613.html