Sarah Wallace 

About My Role

Sarah defends financial crime, fraud and regulatory investigations, with particular experience of defending large and complex criminal or regulatory investigations or prosecutions by bodies such as:

• Financial Services Authority (FSA)
• Serious Fraud Office (SFO)
• HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC and RCPO)
• Department for Business, Innovation & Skills (BIS)
• Crown (or Fraud) Prosecution Service (CPS or FPS)
• Serious Organised Crime Agency (SOCA)
• Solicitors Regulatory Authority (SRA)

In relation to FSA Enforcement investigations, she advises individuals and firms at risk of or under FSA Enforcement investigations, whether criminal, civil or regulatory investigations, for alleged misconduct, rule breaches or criminal offences (eg insider dealing, misleading statements, market abuse or 'boiler rooms'). Sarah was seconded to the FSA's Enforcement Division in 04/05 and represented a senior executive in the first-ever acquittal in an FSA prosecution for insider dealing.

Her practice includes defending restraint, confiscation, asset recovery and other proceeds of crime proceedings, company director disqualification and professional discipline matters (in particular FSA and SRA fitness to practice). Sarah also advises on 'general crime' and motoring matters.

"Dedicated to achieving the client’s best outcome."
The Legal 500, 2011

"Excellent technical skills and understanding of FSA mechanics."
Chambers and Partners - 2011/12

At Irwin Mitchell, the extremely hard-working and conscientious Sarah Wallace enters the tables this year. She “knows her cases thoroughly and will work at a problem until it is solved.” She represents mainly individuals in criminal, regulatory and civil FSA investigation and enforcement proceedings, including retail mis-selling, insider dealing and market abuse and mortgage fraud. - Chambers and Partners Directory 2009/10

"Sarah Wallace inspires confidence and earns praise for her commitment and dedication." - Chambers and Partners Directory 2009/10

Sarah Wallace draws praise for her meticulous preparation. She focuses on defending individuals under criminal investigation for tax fraud and "excels in fighting her clients' corner." - Chambers and Partners Directory 2009/10

More About Me

What Inspired You To Get Into Law?

Interesting work, no day is the same, meeting different and interesting people from varied backgrounds, finding practical and cost effective solutions for clients who may be facing difficult or challenging times in their personal or work life.

What Is The Most Rewarding Aspect Of Your Role?

Working out different angles to represent and defend our clients' best interests. Being involved in what can be cutting edge litigation that makes new law. Most importantly though, clients being happy and satisfied with the outcome of our work.

What Do You Like About Working At Irwin Mitchell?

IM is a friendly, modern, entrepreneurial and forward thinking law firm with like minded motivated people who work hard and passionately for our clients.

What Do You Do Away From The Office?

In the winter I like skiing and ski touring, and in the summer mountain walking and a bit of climbing.