Sarah Laird Associate Solicitor
Dispute Resolution
Sarah Laird is an Associate Solicitor in Swinburne Maddison’s Dispute Resolution team, having been promoted to this role in May 2026. She qualified in May 2020 and joined the firm in November 2023, bringing valuable experience from previous roles at firms across the region.
Sarah advises both commercial and private clients on a range of contentious matters, including debt recovery, property litigation, construction disputes and adverse possession.
Sarah prides herself on delivering practical and cost-effective solutions, and is known for her direct and straightforward approach. She focuses on achieving the best outcomes by combining strong commercial awareness with a clear understanding of her clients’ objectives.
Her core values of dependability, adaptability and trust underpin her approach to client service. Whether navigating complex legal issues or identifying the most efficient route to resolution, Sarah ensures her clients feel supported and confident in her advice throughout the process.
Sarah has a particular interest in supporting commercial clients with debt recovery, contractual disputes and construction-related matters. With a focus on clear communication and efficient resolution, she helps businesses navigate complex legal challenges while keeping costs manageable.
- Debt Recovery
- Adverse Possessions
- Contract Disputes
- Commercial Litigation
- Construction Disputes
- Landlord and Tenant Disputes
Sarah has extensive experience across a wide range of dispute-related matters. From defending right of way disputes to advising on debt recovery and enforcing judgments, she handles both contentious and non-contentious cases.
Key highlights include:
- Successfully defended a right of way dispute, negotiating a £3,000 settlement, significantly lower than the Claimant’s original claim of £25,000 and an injunction.
- Successfully defended a claim of Adverse Possession to a client’s land
- Securing a favourable outcome on behalf of the Defendant in relation to a contractual dispute over £26,000 with the Claimant discontinuing their claim in full following Sarah’s initial intervention.
Her ability to address complex issues with clarity and precision has earned her a reputation as a reliable and effective lawyer, particularly in commercial leases, construction, and private client sectors.
"Discussed details of a claim with Sarah Laird and can’t describe enough how refreshing it was to find an outstanding solicitor who showed genuine concern and explained the legal procedures and technicalities in understandable plain English. Absolute credit to her firm."
Articles & Insights by Sarah Laird
News & Insights
News
Swinburne Maddison Strengthens Position as One of the North East’s Leading Law Firms in Legal 500 2027 Rankings
Swinburne Maddison has reinforced its position as one of the North East’s leading law firms after achieving another strong performance in the Legal 500 2027 rankings. The Durham-headquartered firm retained its four Tier 1 rankings across Corporate & Commercial, Commercial Property, Commercial Litigation and Social Housing, while securing 25 individual recognitions and achieving a new […]
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Can You Hide Assets to Avoid Child Maintenance? Lessons from F v EE [2026]
A recent Family Court decision has sent a clear message to those seeking to avoid their financial responsibilities following separation. In F v EE [2026] EWFC 249 (B), the court demonstrated its willingness to use its enforcement powers where a party deliberately attempted to place assets beyond reach in order to avoid meeting their child […]
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A Legacy Built on People, Culture and Change. The Law Society in conversation with Jonathan Moreland
As Managing Partner of Swinburne Maddison, Jonathan Moreland has overseen a period of significant growth and change, helping transform the firm from its traditional roots into one of the North East’s most respected legal practices. But ask Jonathan what he is most proud of, and his answer is not an award or a business plan. […]
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