Russell-Cooke’s Sarah Richardson wins Outstanding Woman in Law at the ALM Leadership, Influence and Inclusivity Awards 2025

Sarah was recognised for her exceptional leadership of the largest children team in the firm’s history, alongside a demanding caseload involving some of the most complex public law children matters. Her nomination highlighted her outstanding legal expertise, unwavering commitment to access to justice, and the support she provides to colleagues across the profession.

Over the past year, Sarah has achieved notable outcomes for vulnerable clients and continues to be regularly instructed by CAFCASS guardians, solicitors, barristers and, increasingly, by judges seeking her assistance on challenging proceedings. Her “can-do” approach, ability to manage high-stakes cases and consistent delivery of the highest-quality representation further distinguished her contribution.

With more than 20 years’ experience in children law, Sarah works with some of the most vulnerable children and families navigating the family courts. The work is demanding and often emotionally challenging, but she regards it as a privilege to support clients facing profoundly difficult circumstances.

Beyond her casework, Sarah leads and develops a thirteen-strong specialist team, fostering stability, growth and continuous learning. Much of the team’s work is legally aided - an area in which funding rates have not increased since 1996- and she has played a key role in ensuring the firm maintains its longstanding commitment to access to justice for vulnerable families.

She also manages the firm’s Legal Aid contract and continues to support the West London Family Court through rota coordination and pro bono initiatives that provide vital assistance to unrepresented litigants.

As the firm’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Partner, Sarah has led initiatives designed to promote opportunity, wellbeing and progression across the organisation. She contributes to the firm’s annual Responsible Business Report and champions professional development across the team, the firm and the sector.

The ALM Leadership, Influence and Inclusivity Awards celebrate excellence across the sector, recognising individuals whose work makes a meaningful and lasting impact within the legal profession.

Russell-Cooke was also shortlisted in three additional categories at this year’s awards: Legal Leader of the Year (James Carroll), Justice Beyond the Courtroom (the personal injury and medical negligence team for their work on birth trauma), and Social Mobility.

The full list of finalists and winners can be found here.

*Consultant Samantha Little of the children law team collected the award on Sarah Richardson's behalf