Sarah Khan-Bashir MBE on Building a Values-Led Law Firm, Redefining Family Law, and Championing Diversity in the Legal Profession

Welcome to the thirtieth blog post for The Lawyer Files!

Thank you, as always, for subscribing and following the journeys of legal changemakers. Each edition brings you honest reflections, practical insights, and powerful stories from individuals shaping the future of law with purpose and integrity.

✨ In this edition, we feature Sarah Khan-Bashir MBE — founder of SKB Law, award-winning solicitor, author, and advocate for a more human-centred legal system.

From launching her own law firm to writing the Nikah Nama guide — a culturally responsive marriage contract designed to empower British Muslim women — Sarah’s career has consistently broken new ground. Her work bridges family law with community empowerment, and her bold approach to making legal information accessible has earned her national recognition, including an MBE for services to diversity and education.

Sarah’s reflections on legacy, faith, and female empowerment offer a masterclass in purpose-led legal practice. Whether she’s mentoring aspiring lawyers or hosting her podcast Family Matters with Sarah, her voice is one of compassion, conviction, and unwavering drive.

If you’ve ever questioned how the law can serve real people — or how to build a legal career on your own terms — Sarah’s story is one to highlight, revisit, and share.

Let’s dive in 🚀

book lot on black wooden shelf — Photo by Giammarco Boscaro on Unsplash

What inspired you to transition from partner at a traditional firm to launching SKB Law, and how did you envision it being different?

I realised that law and legal services was not accessible as the traditional law firm set up may have overwhelmed some clients, so SKB Law was formed to provide more access.

low angle photo of curtain wall building — Photo by Floriane Vita on Unsplash

You authored “Understanding Your Rights: An Essential Guide to the Nikah Nama”. What gaps in legal knowledge or access did you hope to address for the South Asian community with this resource?

It was apparent that the legal system has not yet caught up with the diversity of those accessing it. I wrote the guide to make clients more aware of their marriage rights in addition to their rights under family law.

open book lot — Photo by Patrick Tomasso on Unsplash

As host of Family Matters with Sarah, what are some of the most impactful stories or lessons that have emerged from the podcast?

The first story of ‘Log Kya Kahenge- what will people say’ was really impactful as it was with the first client I ever had when I first started family law. To hear her story again and how she had dealt with trauma some 25 years was awe inspiring.

macro photography of silver and black studio microphone condenser — Photo by Jonathan Velasquez on Unsplash

You’ve been recognised as ‘Lawyer of the Year’ and awarded an MBE for mentorship and education. How do these honours shape your approach to leadership and client service?

They really allow me into spaces that maybe I couldn’t reach before in order to support, guide and inspire others.

a glass vase sitting on top of a table — Photo by Robin Edqvist on Unsplash

What does the future of SKB Law look like? Are there any upcoming initiatives or areas of practice you’re excited to expand into?

There are so many! Under wraps at the moment but hoping to launch late September.

white braille paper on brown wooden table — Photo by Blessing Ri on Unsplash

Sarah Khan-Bashir MBE – https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-khan-bashir-mbe-2314667/

I hope Sarah’s journey has inspired you — especially if you’re passionate about using law as a tool for empowerment, representation, and real social change.

Her career is a testament to the impact that comes from aligning your values with your practice — whether it’s founding your own law firm, creating culturally relevant resources like the Nikah Nama, or mentoring the next generation of legal professionals through education and advocacy.

From navigating the realities of family law to becoming a national voice on diversity and inclusion, Sarah reminds us that the most meaningful careers are often built on courage, conviction, and community. Hers is a story of legacy — not just in accolades, but in how she opens doors for others.

🎧 Stay tuned — our podcast episode with Sarah is coming soon on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music & Audible (TheLawyerFiles), where we explore building a values-led law firm, the role of faith in legal practice, and what it means to lead with purpose.

We’ll also talk about rewriting the rules, bridging cultural gaps, and using legal storytelling as a force for education and change.

Make sure you’re subscribed so you don’t miss it.

Until next time — stay grounded, stay bold, and lead from wherever you are. 🎙️📚⚖️
— Denice Obeng 🙂