James Hannen, Baron Hannen facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
The Lord Hannen
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| Lord of Appeal in Ordinary | |
| In office 28 January 1891 – 15 August 1893 |
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| President of the Probate, Divorce and Admiralty Division | |
| In office 1 November 1875 – 28 January 1891 |
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| Preceded by | Office created |
| Succeeded by | Sir Charles Butt |
| Judge of the Court of Probate and Judge Ordinary of the Court for Divorce and Matrimonial Causes |
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| In office 20 November 1872 – 1 November 1875 |
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| Justice of the Queen's Bench | |
| In office 25 February 1868 – 20 November 1872 |
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| Personal details | |
| Born | 19 March 1821 Peckham |
| Died | 29 March 1894 |
| Alma mater | Heidelberg University |
James Hannen, Baron Hannen (born March 19, 1821 – died March 29, 1894) was an important English lawyer and judge. He held many high positions in the legal system during his career. He was known for being very careful and accurate in his work.
Contents
Early Life and Education
James Hannen was born in Peckham, a part of London. His father was a merchant in the city. James went to St Paul's School in London. Later, he studied at Heidelberg University in Germany. This university was famous for its law programs.
Becoming a Lawyer
In 1848, James Hannen became a barrister. This means he was qualified to argue cases in court. He joined a group of lawyers called the "home circuit." During this time, he also wrote for newspapers. He provided special reports for the Morning Chronicle.
James Hannen was not known for being a powerful speaker. However, he was very clear, precise, and hardworking. These qualities helped him succeed quickly in his profession. He often moved ahead of other lawyers who might have been more flashy.
Key Early Cases
James Hannen worked on several important cases.
- In 1858, he represented the person claiming the Shrewsbury peerage. This case decided who would inherit the title of Earl of Shrewsbury.
- From 1853 to 1855, he was the main agent for the United Kingdom. He worked on a special commission with the United States. This group helped settle old claims between the two countries.
- He also helped with the legal process for some prisoners in Manchester.
A Career in Judging
In 1868, James Hannen became a judge in the Court of Queen's Bench. This was a very important court in England.
Important Decisions
As a judge, he often took strong positions on cases. One notable case was Farrar v. Close in 1869. This case had a big impact on the legal rights of trade unions. Many union members felt this decision was a setback for them.
In 1872, Hannen became a judge for two specific courts:
- The Court of Probate, which handled wills and inheritances.
- The Court for Divorce and Matrimonial Causes, which dealt with divorces.
Later, he became the President of the Probate, Divorce and Admiralty Division. This happened when several courts were combined into the new High Court of Justice. He was seen as a worthy successor to previous respected judges in this role.
The Parnell Commission
One of James Hannen's most famous roles was leading the Parnell Commission. This was a special investigation. His influence was felt throughout the entire process. It is believed that he personally wrote a large part of the detailed report.
Later Public Service
Hannen's last major public service was for the Bering Sea inquiry in Paris. He acted as one of the British arbitrators. This means he helped settle a dispute between countries.
In January 1891, he was appointed a Lord of Appeal in Ordinary. This is a very high judicial position. He also received a life peerage as Baron Hannen. This meant he became a lord for his lifetime. However, he retired in 1893, so he did not serve long in this role.
Personal Life and Interests
James Hannen was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society in March 1891. This is a prestigious honor for people who have made important contributions to science.
He passed away in London on March 29, 1894, after a long illness. He is buried in the catacombs of West Norwood Cemetery.
Family Connections
James Hannen had an elder brother named Sir Nicholas John Hannen. Nicholas was also a very important legal figure. He served as the Chief Justice of the British Supreme Court for China and Japan from 1891 to 1900. He was also the British Consul General at Shanghai during some of those years. Before that, Nicholas was a judge in Japan.
James Hannen's son, Henry Arthur, was born in 1861. He became a justice of the peace.
Vegetarian Diet
James Hannen had some health issues. His surgeon advised him to try a vegetarian diet. He followed this advice for the rest of his life. He even became the Vice-President of the London Vegetarian Society.
