Sara Watson

Sara is a Director and founding member of Reece Thomas Watson, bringing over 15 years of expertise in Prison Law, Criminal Appeals, and Public Law to the firm. Before launching Reece Thomas Watson, Sara served as the Head of Prison Law and Mental Health at a leading London firm, where she honed her skills and built a reputation for excellence in legal representation for complex cases.

Sara has a wealth of experience representing clients across a broad spectrum of Prison Law matters, including acting for lifers, prisoners subject to recall, extended determinate sentence (EDS) prisoners, and those sentenced under the controversial Imprisonment for Public Protection (IPP) regime. With a strong background in Mental Health Law, Sara is particularly skilled in assisting clients whose cases involve an overlap between mental health issues and the criminal justice system. Her ability to navigate these intersections makes her a sought-after advocate for clients with complex needs.

Specializing in all aspects of Prison Law representation, Sara has extensive practical experience with Parole Board hearings and provides dedicated support to offenders seeking legal representation. Additionally, she has successfully handled numerous challenges for Tariff Reduction Reviews in the High Court, securing reduced sentences for clients facing lengthy prison terms. Her commitment to social justice and ensuring access to high-quality Legal Aid representation is central to her practice.

Sara’s clients frequently describe her as a fearless advocate, known for her relentless dedication and tenacity during parole hearings. She is known for going above and beyond to achieve the best possible results for her clients. Her pragmatic approach and approachable demeanour allow her to build strong rapport with those she represents, ensuring they feel supported throughout the legal process.

In addition to her advocacy work, Sara has delivered professional training on Prison Law and Mental Health, and she remains an active member of the Association of Prison Lawyers (APL). Her commitment to both legal excellence and social justice continues to make her a highly respected figure in the field.