Established in 1789 by John Kirby Hedges, Hedges has traditionally been a cornerstone of the local community. The Hedges family were not just legal advisors; they also ran a bank and the local brewery. Wallingford is still the heartland of Hedges, where we continue to provide legal advice to local people as well as maintaining our close links with the town’s community. The former bank vault is still in use at our office in Market Place, though it contains deeds not dollars these days!

The Hedges family were known for their philanthropy and were very protective of Wallingford’s heritage. Sir John Hedges successfully obtained a permanent injunction to preserve the town’s Saxon walls which remain protected to this day. In 1817 the family purchased the site of Wallingford Castle from the Crown, and years later, generously gifted the grounds to the people of Wallingford, for their future enjoyment in perpetuity.

In the early 1960s, Hedges merged with another local law firm, Hatt & Co. Hedges continued to have a family member as a senior partner until Sir John Hedges retired from the business in the 80’s. With such a long and established local history, Hedges is seen today as the trusted legal advisors for many local families. Generations of our clients have rewarded us with their loyalty and custom, recognising that our integrity and personal service is a rarity.

In May 2021, Hedges Law became only the fifth law firm in the country to be Employee Owned. Each of our employees is now a part owner of the business. It’s our way of thanking those who have helped to turn Hedges into the firm that we are so proud of today, and to ensure the future of Hedges is placed firmly in the hands of those to whom it matters most.