Sousa Law is proud to announce that Emma Sanders has joined as a new partner. With her expertise in child matters, domestic abuse cases, non-court dispute resolution (NCDR), and her ability to conduct her own advocacy, Emma’s appointment reinforces the firm’s commitment to delivering compassionate, solution-focused legal support.
Emma’s hands-on approach to family law means clients receive comprehensive guidance—from the initial consultation where all options are considered to advocacy in court if needed. Whether navigating child arrangements, domestic abuse protection, or cohabitation matters, Emma brings a wealth of experience to help families achieve practical, lasting solutions.
Schedule a consultation or call Sousa Law on 02380 713060 to find the right legal pathway for your family.
Read on to learn how Emma’s promotion strengthens Sousa Law’s services across South of England…
Emma’s path to family law was shaped by a deep commitment to supporting vulnerable individuals. Her career began in advocacy roles with Kingston Advocacy Group and Victim Support, where she provided essential guidance to people navigating complex legal and personal challenges. These early experiences revealed the profound impact that clear, compassionate legal support can have—particularly for those facing domestic abuse and mental health issues.
Motivated by a desire to protect and empower others, Emma pursued a career in family law. Her work as an Independent Domestic Violence Advocate (IDVA) deepened her understanding of the challenges faced by survivors, while her time as an Independent Mental Capacity Advocate (IMCA) equipped her to assist clients with complex mental health needs. This foundation of advocacy informs her approach to family law today—ensuring that every client receives tailored, empathetic support.
Throughout her legal career, Emma has worked with leading Hampshire law firms, gaining extensive experience in divorce and financial settlements, complex child arrangements, domestic abuse cases, and non-court dispute resolution (NCDR). She has built a reputation for resolving complex family disputes with professionalism and care—offering clients practical solutions while reducing the emotional and financial strain of litigation.
Emma’s decision to join Sousa Law as a partner reflects her dedication to providing holistic, client-focused legal services. She continues to champion the needs of children and vulnerable individuals while offering comprehensive guidance across all areas of family law.
“My early advocacy work taught me that the right legal support can change lives. I’m proud to bring that perspective to Sousa Law—ensuring every client feels heard, supported, and empowered throughout their legal journey.”
As a former military wife, Emma understands the unique challenges faced by military families during separation and divorce. She works closely with service personnel and their families to resolve disputes, particularly regarding the division of military pensions—an area where clear legal guidance is essential.
Emma’s experience allows her to navigate the complexities of the Armed Forces Pension Scheme (AFPS) and other military benefits, ensuring that settlements are fair and properly reflect the unique circumstances of military life. Whether addressing the division of a pension, child arrangements during deployments, or housing concerns, Emma provides tailored legal solutions that protect her clients’ long-term financial security.
Her practical, solution-focused approach helps military families resolve disputes amicably, minimising stress while securing fair outcomes for all parties involved.
“Military families face unique pressures, especially during separation. My aim is to provide clear, practical support that ensures fair outcomes while recognising the realities of military life.”
Emma’s expertise covers a broad range of family law matters, including:
Child Arrangement Orders
Emma works closely with parents to create practical, child-centred agreements. She ensures that decisions prioritise the child’s emotional and physical well-being while promoting cooperative parenting.
Domestic Abuse Cases
Emma is passionate about supporting clients affected by domestic abuse. With her background as an Independent Domestic Violence Advocate (IDVA), she understands the complexities survivors face. She provides protective legal strategies, including non-molestation and occupation orders, while offering compassionate support to those navigating these sensitive situations.
Supporting Clients with Complex Mental Health Needs
Emma’s work as an Independent Mental Capacity Advocate (IMCA) equips her to assist clients dealing with mental health challenges. Her holistic approach ensures that vulnerable clients receive tailored legal solutions while being supported with care and understanding.
Divorce & Financial Settlements
Emma provides clear, practical advice on agreeing financial settlements and asset division. Her NCDR first approach helps clients avoid costly litigation while achieving fair outcomes.
Advocacy in Family Law
Emma conducts her own advocacy, ensuring a seamless legal process. This means clients receive consistent representation from consultation to court, providing clarity and reducing the stress of changing legal teams.
Non-Court Dispute Resolution (NCDR)
Emma is a leading advocate for non-court solutions, including mediation, Resolution Together and collaborative law. Her approach focuses on resolving disputes through open communication, reducing conflict, and promoting long-term cooperation.
Cohabitation Agreements
Emma advises non-married couples on protecting their legal and financial interests through clear, legally binding agreements.
Emma’s promotion reflects her commitment to placing children and vulnerable individuals at the heart of family law. Her expertise in child arrangement orders, domestic abuse protection, and advocacy ensures that families receive comprehensive legal support, whether through mediation or court proceedings.
Minimising Disruption
Ensuring that legal solutions prioritise the child’s stability and well-being.
Protecting the Vulnerable
Offering robust legal protection for survivors of domestic abuse while providing sensitive and practical support.
Open Communication
Facilitating discussions that focus on the best interests of children and vulnerable clients.
Long-Term Cooperation
Encouraging cooperative co-parenting and ongoing communication to support future stability.
As a partner, Emma is dedicated to enhancing Sousa Law’s reputation as a leader in family mediation and holistic legal support for families and vulnerable clients.
Expanding NCDR Services
Emma is committed to providing more families with access to mediation and collaborative law – helping clients avoid litigation while resolving disputes amicably.
Advocating for Child-Centred & Domestic Abuse Support
She will continue to place children’s needs and the protection of vulnerable clients at the forefront of her legal work, ensuring clients receive comprehensive, compassionate support.
Offering Seamless Advocacy
By conducting her own advocacy, Emma provides clients with consistent and dedicated legal representation throughout their case.
“I am honored to take this next step in my career with Sousa Law. My goal is to guide families through life’s most challenging moments with care, expertise, and a focus on resolution. Together, we are committed to offering client-centered solutions that put families and vulnerable individuals first.”
With Emma Sanders as a partner, Sousa Law remains dedicated to providing compassionate, client-focused legal solutions. Whether navigating child arrangements, domestic abuse protection, or cohabitation issues, Emma’s expertise ensures clients receive the support they need for lasting peace of mind.
If you’re facing family law challenges, trust Emma Sanders and the Sousa Law team to guide you toward practical, fair solutions.
Schedule a consultation or call Sousa Law on 02380 713060 to take the first step toward resolution.
16 College Place, Southampton, Hampshire, SO15 2FE
Tel: 02380 713 060
Email: [email protected]
