A lot happened in 2016. In June, the UK voted to leave the EU and the Prime Minister, David Cameron, promptly resigned. A few months later, business tycoon and tv personality Donald Trump won the US Presidential election. In between these two momentous political events, and as Rio prepared to host the Summer Olympic games, a new maritime law firm officially (and without much fanfare) opened its doors for business in a small office opposite the iconic Old Bailey.
As with the Brexit vote, the first inauguration of President Trump and the Rio Olympics, the establishment of Hannaford Turner (or “HT” as so many people now call it), seems like yesterday and a lifetime ago in equal measure. Eight brave souls with a common belief that, amongst the big international law firms dominating the commercial maritime landscape, there was a place for a dedicated, specialist law firm which could match their expertise and experience but provide a more personal, focussed and Partner-led service.
Our first ten years has seen us grow as exciting opportunities (and remarkable individuals) have presented themselves. Today, we have 26 lawyers which, in keeping with our vision for a truly Partner-led service, includes 18 Partners. For both commercial ships and yachts, we have achieved an enviable reputation in our core areas of debt and equity finance, newbuilding projects and sale and purchase. In recent years, we have also built a formidable litigation offering and are recognised as world leading lawyers in the large yachts sector. HT boasts internationally recognised experts in various specialist areas, including cruise, ferry, LNG, yachts, private aviation and trade & commodities. To complement our existing portfolio of legal services, this year we have launched our commercial aviation practice.
We remain in the heart of the City of London (our offices now on Cheapside, close to another iconic building, St Paul’s Cathedral) and, despite our increase in size, our core values and our vision remain the same.
On our tenth anniversary, we take the opportunity to recognise the wonderful, talented and committed lawyers and support staff who have taken this journey with us and to convey our sincerest thanks to our clients for their trust, confidence and support as we look forward with excitement to the next ten years.
Matt, Justin, Owen, Keith (the “founding” Partners)