Today we’re chatting with Sarah Magson, our Middlesbrough Branch Manager.

Sarah is a Partner and specialises in personal injury and Inquest law.

Hi Sarah, can you tell us when you joined Ison Harrison?

I joined Ison Harrison on 4th August 2025 after spending 19 years at a firm in Middlesbrough. I was drawn to Ison Harrison because of our shared values and commitment to client care. I was looking for a new challenge and wanted to work along like-minded colleagues.

Prior to joining, I was Civil Operations Officer at Watson Woodhouse Solicitors, where I oversaw multiple departments, including Inquests; Personal Injury; Housing and Family Law. My leadership background has strengthened my focus on strategic growth, operational excellence, and people development – all of which align closely with Ison Harrison’s ethos

Describe your day-to-day role

I specialise in inquests, actions against public authorities, civil claims and personal injury law. My role is varied, challenging, and incredibly rewarding. I work with some of the most vulnerable members of society and support those who have suffered life-changing injuries or lost loved ones – often due to failings by the State.

I find my job empowering, as it allows me to seek justice and accountability on behalf of my clients. I’m determined to find creative legal solutions, often taking cases to the High Court or Court of Appeal to challenge legislation and bring about meaningful change.

Beyond my client work, I’m passionate about operational excellence – creating workflows, precedents, and streamlined processes that enhance efficiency and quality across teams. Mentorship also plays a huge part in my day-to-day life; I’ve supported several apprentices and trainees through to qualification, many of whom have gone on to achieve award recognition themselves.

What is the most interesting part of your job?

The law is constantly evolving, and that keeps my work stimulating. I’m always learning and navigating new legal challenges to remove barriers to justice.

Currently, I’m working with several families calling for a Public Inquiry into mental health services. I see my role as going beyond individual cases – I strive to influence wider legislative change and promote accountability to help prevent others from suffering similar loss or harm. I’ve recently met with the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care to discuss opening a Statutory Public Inquiry. Working on such cases demonstrates how legal advocacy can drive reform.

What do you find most challenging about your job?

I’m a blue-sky thinker who loves finding creative, “out-of-the-box” solutions. The biggest challenge arises when access to justice is limited, often due to the limited availability of public funding or insurance.

In those situations, I support families in other ways – by signposting to services or helping them with crowdfunding. I firmly believe there is always a solution if you are determined and resourceful enough to find it.

Managing large-scale, complex litigation while ensuring every client feels individually supported can also be demanding, but my experience in operational management has taught me how to balance efficiency with empathy – maintaining strong client relationships even in the most pressured situations.

What’s the most useful piece of advice you’ve been given in your career

Early in my career, I was told that there’s no shame in asking others for help with a difficult question – someone might have the answer in minutes, saving you hours of research.

That advice has stayed with me. I never want to be the most knowledgeable person in the room as there is always someone who you can learn from. I aim to keep learning, collaborating, and pushing myself forward. It’s a mindset that has kept me both humble and progressive in my career.

It’s also influenced how I lead – encouraging open dialogue within teams and creating an environment where collaboration and continuous improvement are encouraged.

What do you like doing in your spare time?

I enjoy going to the gym and walking – staying active helps me maintain focus and energy. I also love socialising with friends and taking sunny holidays. Having a strong support network and taking time to recharge helps me stay balanced, disciplined, and focused at work.

I also support charities such as INQUEST and If U Care Share — supporting their campaigns for reform and accountability. Giving back in this way helps me stay grounded and connected to the wider community.

What does our firm being 100% employee-owned mean to you?

It means transparency, shared purpose, and genuine belonging. There’s a real family feel at Ison Harrison despite the firm’s size and growth. Everyone is approachable, supportive, and committed to shared goals.

Being employee-owned gives a sense of pride and stability – people feel invested in the firm’s success, which naturally encourages teamwork, loyalty, and satisfaction.

Having worked in senior management at a regional practice, I’ve seen first-hand how ownership and empowerment can drive culture. The employee-ownership model amplifies this – everyone has a voice and a vested interest in the firm’s direction, which advances motivation and innovation.

What links to Middlesbrough do you have?

I was born and raised in Middlesbrough and have never lived away. I love the town, its people, and its passion.

I began my career at a small local firm before joining Watson Woodhouse in 2006, where I qualified as a solicitor in 2009. I have a daughter and a granddaughter who live in Middlesbrough, and I’m a proud supporter of Middlesbrough Football Club.

My connection to the town runs deep – from studying at Teesside University, where I gained my LLB, to mentoring aspiring lawyers from the local area. I’m passionate about creating opportunities for young people from Middlesbrough to build successful legal careers without feeling they need to move away.

What are your three favourite things about Middlesbrough?

  1. The town’s passion for Middlesbrough Football Club.
  2. The iconic local delicacy – the Parmo!
  3. The close-knit community, where you’re never more than two connections away from a friend.

It’s also a place that breeds resilience and determination – qualities I see reflected in so many of my clients and colleagues. Middlesbrough people don’t give up easily, and that’s something I carry with pride.

Any interesting or little-known facts about you?

I was awarded Lawyer of the Year at the Northern Law Awards in 2024 and Inspirational Female Business Leader in the same year. I also appeared alongside Sir Alan Sugar on BBC’s The Apprentice in 2018.

I’ve also been featured in several legal documentaries, including BBC’s Northern Justice and Channel 4’s Killed by a Rich Kid, where I’ve been able to highlight important legal and human rights issues to a national audience.

As for a fun fact – my party trick is being able to gargle any tune note-perfect (which is lucky, because my singing voice leaves a lot to be desired!).

Thanks Sarah!

If you’d like to find out more or speak to Sarah directly, please call 01642 070860 or email sarah.magson@isonharrison.co.uk.