Introduction

Behind every family law case is a human story.

Meet Sapna Shah, our Head of Private Family Law at 33 Bedford Row. With over 15 years of experience in private children law and matrimonial finance disputes, Sapna brings warmth, clarity, and expertise to every case.

Known for simplifying complex issues and finding constructive solutions, she is dedicated to supporting clients through life’s toughest moments—whether resolving matters amicably or advocating with confidence in court.

[Discover more about Sapna]

Profile

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…..

Testimonials

• “Sapna is very intelligent and experienced so quickly gets to grips with each situation and is committed to resolving matters professionally and thoroughly in the most cost-effective way. Her calm and confident demeanour put me at ease from the start and her unique ability to simplify the complexities and pragmatic solutions in clear language (not legal jargon) left me feeling that I was in control of the process. Highly recommended without reservations” – Civil, debt

• “Sapna's professional and no-nonsense approach to my case was a breath of fresh air. She applied legal knowledge where required, a sympathetic ear when I needed it and brought me back in line when needed. Her formidable strength combined with humanity had made this hard process much easier and I am so glad I have Sapna fighting on my side” – Family law client – finance  

• “I highly recommend Sapna Shah, an experienced professional who is not just able to be a legal representative but also has the ability to summarise through the client’s complex emotions and communicate effectively. Sapna will always put her client's best interest first, she will be direct and transparent;  highlighting all the different scenarios that could take place throughout the divorce proceedings. Sapna's work ethics are impeccable; she will not want for her client to spend/waste time and money on unnecessary matters. From my experience, working with Sapna was very straightforward. She is extremely hardworking; her approach is honest and thorough.” Family – finance

Memberships

Member of Resolution and Family Law Bar Association

Resolution-accredited specialist in children law and advocacy

Member of Middle Temple

Member of the Pro Bono Unit of the Bar

Languages

She is fluent in Gujarati and has conversational French

Direct Access

Sapna is accredited to accept work under direct access in suitable cases. In order to instruct Sapna on a direct access basis, contact the clerks on +44 (0) 20 7242 6476 or at clerks@33br.co.uk.