Sarah Hayward

Call: 2021

Sarah’s practice encompasses all aspects of children law, with a particular focus on international and private children law cases.

She excels in handling complex family law matters, including those involving parental alienation, international relocation, and allegations of domestic or child abuse. Sarah is particularly skilled in representing vulnerable clients, offering tailored support and ensuring their interests are protected. Her empathetic approach, combined with her strategic advice and strong advocacy skills, enables her to navigate even the most challenging cases. Sarah’s ability to communicate effectively in court and her meticulous preparation ensures she provides exceptional representation in diverse legal contexts.

Sarah completed her Law degree with European Law at the University of Nottingham. During her studies, she had the opportunity to present at the House of Lords before representatives from FTSE 100 companies. She has also worked as a university law lecturer, teaching Family & Child Law, and gained practical experience at two Legal 500 law firms, where she managed demanding caseloads and supported vulnerable clients.

To instruct Sarah Hayward or for more information…

Call: 020 7353 6961
Email: clerks@harcourtchambers.co.uk

Practice Areas

Sarah is frequently instructed in international children law cases before the Family Division of the High Court. She has a strong interest in matters involving an international element, including international relocation, summary return applications under the 1980 Hague Convention, and the recognition and enforcement of international orders. With extensive experience in Hague Convention cases, Sarah is well-prepared to handle all stages of the process and has represented both Applicants and Respondents in such proceedings.

Notable International Family Law cases


Re U (Recognition and Enforcement of Orders Under the 1996 Hague Convention) [2023] EWHC 3494 (Fam)

Case involving the recognition and enforcement of International orders under the 1996 Hague Convention.


Re U (a child) (welfare) [2024] EWHC 583 (Fam)

Case involving the mother’s application for access to the child under Art. 21 of the 1980 Hague Convention.

Sarah has extensive experience in complex private children law cases, including those involving parental alienation, international relocation, and allegations of domestic or child abuse. She offers a practical, empathetic approach, ensuring clients feel supported through emotionally challenging proceedings.
Sarah excels at crafting tailored solutions, providing clear, strategic advice while maintaining a keen attention to detail. She prioritizes building strong client relationships, going the extra mile to ensure they feel secure. Understanding the stress of legal proceedings, she strives to alleviate this burden by offering clear, robust advice and practical solutions to difficult situations.

Notable Private Law Children cases


Re U: Findings of Fact [2024] EWHC 582 (Fam)

Sarah is regularly instructed in cases involving serious allegations, such as domestic violence, substance abuse, and child abuse. She represents a wide range of clients, including parents, children (through their guardians), and local authorities, which gives her a well-rounded perspective on complex public law family cases.
Skilled in managing vulnerable clients and addressing complex evidential issues, Sarah focuses on achieving practical, sustainable solutions. Her meticulous preparation and effective communication in court ensure her clients’ voices are heard, and their interests are strongly represented. Sarah is committed to delivering a high standard of advocacy in every case.

Related News

Pupillage at Harcourt Q&A event at the University of Law

Alison Williams, Fazeela Ishmael and Sarah Hayward had a great time at the University of Law yesterday evening, meeting lots of students and recent graduates at our Q&A event about…

Thomas Braithwaite and Sarah Hayward have accepted invitations to join Chambers

We are delighted to announce that Thomas Braithwaite and Sarah Hayward have accepted invitations to join Chambers. Their tenancies will commence on 2nd October 2023 on the successful completion of…

After the successful completion of their First Six we are delighted to announce that Thomas Braithwaite and Sarah Hayward are now able to accept instructions as Second Six pupils

Thomas joined Harcourt as a pupil in October 2022 and is developing a practice across the full spectrum of Chambers’ expertise. Thomas was under the supervision of Suzanne Syme and…

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