Meet Ella Holland and Hannah Sharrock

12th Mar 2026

Author: Butcher & Barlow

At Butcher & Barlow, we know that choosing a firm to work with, or a firm to build your career with, is about people as much as it is about process. Amy Norman sat down with Hannah Sharrock and Ella Holland, two newly qualified Solicitors, for a chat about what drew them into Law, what their days at Butcher & Barlow look like now and the little details that make them who they are.

First of all, congratulations on your qualification! What made you want to be a Solicitor all those years ago?

Hannah: I have always been the person friends and family come to when they need advice or support. Finding a career where I could help people was really important to me, and I get a real sense of satisfaction knowing I have helped someone in some way. It was not much of a surprise when I realised private client was the area I wanted to qualify into, and I am really looking forward to developing my career within it.

Ella: I am a natural problem solver, and I have always been interested in Law. Like most people, I was drawn in by Legally Blonde and Suits! I really enjoyed my studies at University and I have never looked back.

And what does a typical working day look like, now you are qualified?

Ella: I always start my day by checking my inbox and reviewing my to-do list. One thing working in a law firm has taught me is that no matter how much you plan ahead, something urgent or unexpected will pop up. Every day is so varied, and I think that is what I love so much about Commercial Property. Generally, I spend most of my days communicating with clients and drafting, reviewing and reporting on legal documents.

Hannah: I do not really have a typical working day either and every day is different. My days usually consist of drafting Wills or Lasting Powers of Attorney, meeting with clients to discuss estate planning or the estates of loved ones they have lost. I also sometimes visit clients at home or at the hospital or care home, so no two days are the same.

It sounds like you both thrive on variety, just in two very different ways.

Hannah: Yes, and you meet people at very different points in their lives.

Ella: And you learn quickly to be organised, because the day does not always follow your plan.

Do you have a stand-out positive memory from your career so far?

Hannah: For me, it is mainly having the opportunity to help clients navigate difficult situations, and seeing how much reassurance you can provide through your legal expertise. That is really rewarding.

Ella: It is not one specific memory, but it is so rewarding when you recognise the progress you are making. There is still so much to learn, but it is a great feeling when something that once felt complex starts to click and you build the confidence to use your initiative and take the lead.

That “click” moment is a good one. It is like you suddenly realise you have been building the skill without noticing.

Ella: Yes, exactly that.

What do you think Clients value most when they work with you?

Ella: I try to be as accessible as possible. It can be hard when you are dealing with a lot of matters at once, but clients really value being able to reach you when they have questions.

Hannah: I think clients also value that they are genuinely listened to and supported. In private client work, clients are often discussing very personal matters, so it is important they feel comfortable and understood. I always take the time to explain things clearly and avoid unnecessary jargon, so clients confidently understand the decisions they are making.

And now you have reached this milestone you have been working towards since school, what are your aspirations?

Hannah: To continue developing my knowledge in my practice area and begin to build a reputation as a trusted and reliable Solicitor. Qualifying is such an important milestone for me, but this is just the beginning!

Ella: It still feels surreal that I am finally qualified after aspiring to it all these years! The next big aspiration is to get on the property ladder and buy a house. Other than that, like Hannah, I want to keep developing my knowledge and experience to provide the best service I can.

What do you enjoy doing when you’re not working hard on progressing your career?

Hannah: I enjoy socialising with friends and trying new restaurants. I also love reading, and my kindle is one of the best presents I ever received. I have also recently got back into exercise and I love a spin class, which I would not have believed two years ago.

Ella: I like to stay active and socialise with friends and family too. It helps me switch off and reset. Although, when I am not feeling quite so energetic or social, you will probably find me buried in a book.

What are you both reading at the moment?

Ella: I am currently reading Keeping 13, the second book in the Boys of Tommen series by Chloe Walsh. The whole series is around 4,600 pages so it will keep me occupied for quite some time.

Hannah: I am just about to start The Housemaid by Freida McFadden so I can finally watch the film that came out last year.

And what book would you recommend to each other?

Hannah: I cannot choose a favourite, but the Throne of Glass series by Sarah J Maas is one of my favourites.

Ella: I have only recently started reading again, so I do not feel qualified to answer properly! But for beginners you cannot really go wrong with Colleen Hoover and Freida McFadden if you like romance and thriller.

A few quick fire questions now:

If you could tell your 15-year-old self one thing, what would it be?

Hannah: Go with the flow and do not care what anyone else thinks, as long as you’re happy and enjoying yourself. Always remember that what is meant for you will never pass you by.

Ella: Have confidence in your own abilities and stop worrying. You will end up where you are meant to be.

If you could travel anywhere, where would you go?

Ella: There are so many places I want to travel to, but I think I would choose the Maldives. The beaches look incredible.

Hannah: New York at Christmas time is an absolute must.

Quite the opposite of places!

If money was no object, what would you do all day?

Hannah: I would like to think I would be travelling the world and experiencing all that different places and cultures have to offer.

Ella: I would definitely travel the world. Shall we go together?

You are a new addition to the crayon box. What colour would you be, and why?

Hannah: Yellow, because it represents positivity. In work and in my personal life, I always try to bring a bright, optimistic attitude even when it gets busy or challenging.

Ella: You absolutely achieve that Hannah!  I had no idea, so I asked my friends. Apparently I would be yellow too because I am optimistic and charismatic.

How would your friends describe you?

Ella: They have told me I am driven, reliable and funny. I will take that.

Hannah: The therapist of the group is usually how they describe me.

Ella: That is a very important role!

An interesting fact people might not know about you

Ella: I recently learned that I have an extra bone in my foot … but I am not sure how interesting that is!

Hannah: I have a twin sister, and I also have two older brothers who are twins too – It usually shocks people!

And one thing you cannot get through the working day without?

Ella: As someone who does not like coffee, my afternoon boost is usually fuelled by a fizzy drink, usually a Pepsi Max.

Hannah: A crisp Diet Coke in the afternoon always gets me through the day.

The Pepsi v Coke debate right there!  And finally, what key life skills would you pass on to a graduate just starting out?

Ella: Question everything. Asking questions, even the ones you feel are silly, is how you learn. It is not just about perfecting how to do something, but understanding why you are doing it. And embrace feedback – no one is expecting you to be perfect and know everything. Every day is a learning day in a legal career.

Hannah: For me it’s to keep showing up and do not put too much pressure on yourself. Your training period is your opportunity to ask questions and learn from mistakes. I would also advise writing down instructions from supervisors rather than trying to remember what they said! And soak up and enjoy your time as a Trainee, because the time really does fly by.

Thank you for taking the time to speak to me ladies and good luck as you embark on this next stage of your career.

If you speak to Hannah or Ella, you will find two newly qualified Solicitors who are bright, approachable and committed to helping Clients feel supported and clear about what happens next, with a good chance of a book recommendation along the way.