SANDERSONS MOVE BACK TO THE FUTURE

The Family Law and Licensing Departments of Sandersons, the Parliament Street based Hull firm of solicitors, have just made one of the shortest moves in their history.

From 3 April 2006, they have moved offices from 11 Parliament Street to the firm’s main offices, almost directly opposite at 17-19 Parliament Street. A mere twenty yards, perhaps, but also a return to the company’s original roots, and also to a fascinating glimpse into the building’s history.

Sandersons as a partnership has been in existence since 1839. Mr H H Sanderson, who gave the firm his name, established his practice at 17 Parliament Street in 1908 and the practice has been based there ever since. As the firm evolved into a modern legal practice over the years, Numbers 18 and 19 were acquired and No 11 was leased as additional office accommodation.

Recently the impressive Georgian buildings at Number 17 – 19 have been extensively renovated and the full potential in terms of under-utilised space was realised. Additional meeting rooms and offices have been introduced without compromising the existing accommodation.

The firm’s investment in the latest computerised technology and data storage facilities has also contributed to the move as it enabled the firm’s historical and archive material to be stored more efficiently and effectively.

David Roberts, Head of the Family Law and Licensing Department, told us,

"The move has gone incredibly smoothly; our original building now seems like the Tardis with space I’d never imagined existed before. All our existing and new clients will be welcome at our new premises. Our location may have changed but our high standards remain the same."

The move means that all the firm’s specialist practice areas will be located in the same building. Senior Partner, Duncan Rann, told us,

"We are delighted to have our main offices in one of our original homes, and I’m sure that our founder, Mr H H Sanderson, would have been pleased to see how the business has grown."

The practice now comprises the Commercial and Employment Department, headed by Elaine Carson; Litigation and Sports Law, headed by Paul Grimwood; David Hextall is responsible for Commercial Property, with Janet Slattery assisting on Moving House. In addition to his Senior Partner role, Duncan Rann specialises in Taxation and Wealth Management issues.

Sandersons also have a Beverley office, based at The Hall in Lairgate.

One surprising and interesting revelation that has arisen during the redevelopment was the discovery of two original lithographs depicting a lady and gentleman, probably from the early nineteenth century. Sadly, no names are included to give a clue to their identity. However, the deeds to the Parliament Street building show that in the 1830s, it was owned by a George Henry Hill, a wine merchant, who was baptised on 14 April 1806 at George Street Particular Baptist Church. He married a lady called Sarah Cowham on 1 May 1828 at Holy Trinity Church.

Almost two hundred years later, we do not know what became of the family, although the 1888 census reveals that one of their daughters, Sophia, was married to a Wesleyan minister and lived in Tavistock, Devon.

The mystery of who appears on the lithographs remains unsolved. If anyone thinks they know their identity, please contact Sandersons at 17-19 Parliament Street, or ring them on 01482 324662. They would be pleased to find out and would also be pleased to offer you the best legal advice if required.

 April 2006