I am an advocate in the licensing and planning specialisms of Trethowans and deals with all aspects of alcohol and entertainment licensing, planning, and related issues such as noise nuisance.
I represent applicants and objectors on any issues within this area. My clients range from national chain operators to individuals, and I am heavily involved in issues relating to tourism and the leisure industries.
I am also a Notary Public and deal with all enquiries coming in to the firm for notarial services for transactions involving an international element.
I am Vice Chair & Secretary of the South West Region of the Institute of Licensing, Affiliate Member of the Institute of Acoustics, member of the Notaries Society, and director of Bournemouth Accommodation & Hotel Association. I am also a non-executive director and trustee of a large arts & leisure social enterprise.
I am a Recommended Lawyer in the Legal 500 2021 guide.
Notarial work is undertaken by Sandra D. Graham, Notary Public, independent of Trethowans LLP and is regulated through the Faculty Office of the Archbishop of Canterbury. The Data Protection Privacy Notice for Notarial Services provided by Sandra Graham can be found here.
We looked for some professional help and were recommended to Sandra. We immediately felt very comfortable with her and it was clear that she knew the ins and outs of the planning process in fine detail. She also made sure that we had a clear understanding of the severity of our position and the implications of any decisions we were faced with. All in all this was a magnificent result but the most impressive aspect of our dealings with Sandra was her commercial attitude , unusual with lawyers, all the time weighing up risk against reward.
Areas of Expertise
Case Study
Contentious licence application for new site in city centre of a cumulative impact area, negotiated with Police who were objecting, with considerable success and very little additional conditions on licence.
Acted for hotel who thought they would have to close just before Christmas whilst large business function about to commence as designated premises supervisor resigned suddenly. I submitted applications to regularise the situation and allow the function to continue within 2 hours of first telephone call.
Acted for local authority on application for premises licence for its own premises where numerous objections from independent councillors and residents and local authority wanted independent intervention. Licence successfully granted.
Advised residential owners of property adjoining noisy pub on issues and how to legally resolve them.
Advised owners of equestrian centre.
Represents individuals in breach of Tree Preservation Orders in negotiations with the Council and in defence to prosecution.
Defending various individuals subjected to planning enforcement prosecutions and negotiating to minimise penalties, including dealing with claims under Proceeds of Crime Act.
Acted for owner of agricultural land and equestrian centre who had received two enforcement notices for planning breaches and who had lodged so many planning applications (unsuccessfully) that 5 planning consultants had said the situation was too complex for them to take on. Over 2 year period successfully negotiated through a planning appeal and new submission to achieve withdrawal of enforcement notices and a satisfactory planning approval.
What others say
For over twenty years the Hotel Miramar has been using Sandra Graham’s expertise in licensing matters. I have always found her work to be quick, ethical, accurate and professional. It is reassuring to know that we have a legal expert at the end of the phone who always offers a personal service combined with a real understanding of our operation.
Our Leader and Portfolio Holder in particular were very pleased with the way in which the applicant’s case was presented, and for the thorough approach to the hearing.
“We wanted to object to a neighbours planning application, so our son recommended Trethowans. Sandra’s work was extremely thorough and professional and we were absolutely delighted with the results of her work. We would have no hesitation in recommending Sandra and Trethowans.” – Mr & Mrs Hubbard
Away from the office
I enjoy the outdoor life, horticulture, walking my dog, and travelling to far flung destinations. My interests include Art Deco, historic buildings, aspects of aviation & classic cars, especially the Triumph Stag. I am a member of the Stag Owners’ Club, Royal Horticultural Society and the British Sugarcraft Guild.
