Ward Hadaway has appointed Maria Coster as a partner to lead its family and matrimonial team in Leeds, working alongside colleagues across the firm’s national family practice. Recognised by The Legal 500 as a Rising Star and Next Generation Partner, she brings nearly 15 years’ experience advising on family law matters.
Coster specialises in financial disputes and private children matters, including divorce and dissolution, high-value financial cases involving business interests, and arrangements concerning children. She also advises on asset protection, including pre- and post-nuptial agreements and cohabitation agreements.
Commenting on her new role, Coster said her focus is on ‘leading the matrimonial team in Leeds’ and ‘building on the foundations already in place’. She added that she is ‘looking forward to working with colleagues across the firm’ while ensuring ‘a consistent, high-quality service for clients’.
Liz Bottrill, head of the national family and matrimonial department, said Coster ‘adds further strength to our team’, while managing partner Steven Petrie said she brings ‘a strong track record in advising on complex matters and developing teams’. The appointment forms part of the firm’s continued investment in its private client department and wider family law offering.
