Our Team
Specialist Family Law Solicitors
Together we have over 50 Years of Experience in Family Law
Constructive & Collaborative
Meet The Team
Bessie Hanson - Director & Collaborative Lawyer
Bessie Hanson is a Director of Brigstow Family Law. She was previously a Director of The Family Law Practice, and prior to that a solicitor at Bobbetts Mackan.
Since qualification as a solicitor in 2008, Bessie has exclusively practised family law. Bessie has the experience, expertise and knowledge to assist her clients with the legal issues and challenges arising from the breakdown of a relationship.
Bessie has extensive experience advising clients on child arrangements, including complex cases where there are serious welfare issues, domestic abuse, parental alienation and expert evidence.
Bessie specialises in resolving financial matters, including cases where there are complex asset structures, trusts, pensions and business assets.
Bessie has meticulous attention to detail and great judgment, both of which are key in advising clients who have complex finances such as farming assets, complex business structures, significant pension funds, inherited wealth and trust assets.
Bessie is a member of Resolution and a collaborative lawyer. Bessie is committed to adopting a constructive and solution focused approach.
Bessie is ranked in Chambers & Partners (Band 2).
In October 2022, Bessie was appointed as a Deputy District Judge on the Western Circuit.
“Bessie was incredibly meticulous in her approach, leaving no stone unturned when gathering and presenting evidence.” (Chambers and Partners)
“Bessie is an exceptional family practitioner. She is technically excellent, providing clear and realistic advice to her clients, while at the same time really having their back.” (Chambers and Partners)
Bessie is listed as a Leading Lawyer by Wiselaw.
Sharon Mahmood - Director
Sharon Mahmood is a Director of Brigstow Family Law. She was previously a Director of The Family Law Practice, and prior to that a solicitor at Burges Salmon.
Sharon qualified as a solicitor in 2008 and since qualifying has specialised exclusively in family law. She has experience in all aspects of family work; her core practice is in resolving complex financial disputes and private law children matters, between both married and unmarried couples.
Sharon is ranked in Chambers & Partners (Band 1).
Sharon is a member of the Bristol Court Users Group. She has written articles for Family Law. She is a former lecturer on the Legal Practice Course at the University of the West of England and The University of Law, Bristol.
In September 2021, Sharon was appointed as a Deputy District Judge on the Midland Circuit.
“Sharon will robustly pursue the best outcome for her clients while remaining pragmatic and fair.” (Chambers and Partners)
“Her interpersonal skills were outstanding. She was patient, understanding and compassionate, particularly during emotionally charged moments.” (Chambers and Partners)
Harriet Shaw - Senior Associate Solicitor
Harriet Shaw is a Senior Associate Solicitor of Brigstow Family Law and joined the team in February 2022. Harriet studied Law at the University of Exeter and then went on to study her LPC at BPP University in Bristol where she gained a distinction.
Harriet previously worked alongside directors, Sharon, and Bessie at The Family Law Practice. Prior to this Harriet trained at a national law firm in the Thames Valley.
Harriet qualified as a solicitor in March 2018 and since qualifying has specialised exclusively in family law. She has experience assisting clients on a wide range of family law matters including divorce, financial proceedings and complex private law children matters. Harriet also advises clients going through mediation.
Harriet is a member of Resolution. She is committed to supporting her clients constructively and emotionally, whilst protecting their interests to achieve the best possible outcome.
“Harriet’s ability to navigate complex matters with both clarity and compassion was remarkable. I always felt heard, respected and supported by her”. (Chambers and Partners)
“I have always received a knowledgeable, respectful and excellent service from Harriet.” (Chambers and Partners)
“She had a clear command of the law and was able to explain things in a straightforward, accessible way, which helped me understand exactly where I stood.” ~ (Chambers and Partners)
Hannah Moore - Assistant Solicitor
Hannah Moore is an Assistant Solicitor and joined the Brigstow Family Law team in February 2026. Hannah completed her law degree at the University of Lincoln and her Master’s degree in Law at Nottingham Law School. She qualified as a solicitor in March 2025 following completion of the SQE.
Hannah has practised exclusively in family law throughout her career, from paralegal level through to qualification. She assists clients across a wide range of family law matters, including divorce and financial remedy proceedings, private children matters, and domestic abuse work. She has a particular interest in supporting clients with child arrangements issues and in helping individuals navigate the legal procedures that arise during relationship breakdowns.
Hannah is a member of Resolution and is committed to taking a constructive approach.
Hannah is dedicated to providing clear and realistic advice, tailored to each client’s individual circumstances, and understands the importance of offering reassurance, clarity and practical guidance during what is often a difficult and emotional time.
Sasha Tilley - Paralegal
Sasha Tilley is a Paralegal at Brigstow Family Law and joined the team in June 2024.
Sasha has worked within the legal profession the whole of her professional life, after completion of her law degree.
Prior to joining Brigstow Family Law, she worked at Bobbetts Mackan solicitors. Sasha has over 20 years’ experience of working in a family law department.
Sasha is committed to ensuring excellent client care and assisting the solicitors in delivering the best service to our clients. Sasha is efficient and friendly and is an invaluable member of the team.
Olivia Lipiec – Trainee Solicitor
Olivia Lipiec joined the firm as a Paralegal in July 2025.
Olivia was promoted to Trainee Solicitor in April 2026
Olivia studied Law and graduated in 2025, having completed her degree and a placement year at a local firm. Olivia is currently studying for her SQE, and with her passion for family law, she aims to qualify as a solicitor specialising in this field.
With a strong foundation in private client work, she is passionate about supporting clients through what are often emotionally challenging times with empathy, clarity, and professionalism.
Olivia is dedicated to providing our clients with excellent client care and is an invaluable member of the team.
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