Biography
I am a solicitor on the Public Law and Human Rights team, at our Birmingham office. I specialise in health and social care and Court of Protection cases. I act for individuals who seek to challenge decisions made by public bodies, regarding their care, such as eligibility for Continuing Healthcare, or care home provision.
In the Court of Protection, I act for vulnerable adults, or members of their families, in proceedings concerning the health and welfare of people who are deemed to lack capacity to make decisions about their care.
Having studied Spanish and Portuguese at university, and after a decade in the creative industries, I changed career to become a lawyer, and have not looked back.
What inspired you to get in to law?
Having worked with asylum seekers through my business, I began volunteering with migrant rights organisations in Birmingham. A legal career had long been at the back of my mind, and I took the plunge into law school in 2013. I wanted to practice a discipline grounded in social justice, and found out about social welfare law through Birmingham Community Law Centre, and the Justice First Fellowship.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your role?
It is a great privilege, and responsibility, to harness the law in assisting people. I gain strength from clients’ incredible emotional resilience, and work hard to empower them through challenging circumstances. This area of law can be complex, so the biggest rewards come when our clients feel empowered by the positive changes we can achieve.
What do you like about working at Irwin Mitchell?
I love learning from my colleagues, there is such a breadth of knowledge in the team. Despite the size of our practice, it's a very human and supportive environment.
What do you do away from the office?
I spend as much time as possible on my allotment, which is very therapeutic! I also enjoy yoga and cycling, music, arts and literature. Having lived in Brazil for some time, I try to keep up with friends there, and love to travel when given the opportunity.
Testimonials
“I just wanted to thank you for all your sterling work. Would my mother be in a care home of her choice without your input - I very much doubt it. My only regret is not showing my appreciation in person - but such is the current climate. May God keep you in the palm of his hand.” - Mr S, Client
"This company is excellent .They are professional but with the human touch. I never felt like just a case number. The reason for this is a lady called Tessa Burwood .She was so helpful and understanding . She went out of her way to explain all the legal talk. And she never made me feel silly with all my questions . I worked in customer service for over 40 years and that’s what you get from this company.” - 5* Trustpilot Review
