Experienced Family Lawyer Joins Ward Hadaway as Partner

Ward Hadaway has announced the appointment of leading family lawyer Louise Masters as a Partner in its Family and Matrimonial team.

Louise, who joined the firm earlier this year, is helping drive the growth of its One Lawyer, Resolution Together service - a progressive approach that enables separating couples to work with a single lawyer to reach mutual agreement without going to court.

With almost two decades of experience, Louise is widely recognised as one of the region’s most accomplished family lawyers. She has advised on high-value financial matters, pre- and post-marital agreements and complex family disputes involving business assets, farms and generational wealth.

A trained collaborative lawyer and community mediator, Louise is also known for her leadership in alternative dispute resolution. Her arrival enhances the firm’s ability to meet growing demand for non-court solutions and builds on the success of the One Lawyer service, which she now leads alongside Partner Gemma Iceton.

Louise said: “There is fantastic talent throughout the Family and Matrimonial team at Ward Hadaway and I’m thrilled to join and contribute my skills and experience. The One Lawyer model reflects what many separating couples are looking for - a dignified, thoughtful way forward. I’m proud to be part of a team that’s leading the way on this, while also offering the depth of knowledge to handle complex and sensitive matters across the full family law spectrum.”

Louise’s appointment comes at a time of continued growth for the Family and Matrimonial team, as more clients seek out alternatives to the traditional court process. The firm’s One Lawyer model offers a clearer, more collaborative route through separation with an emphasis on preserving relationships, minimising cost and reducing stress for families.

Steven Petrie, Managing Partner at Ward Hadaway, added: “Louise has already made a significant impact since joining the firm. Her reputation in the market, her leadership with Gemma and her ability to guide clients through complex matters with care and clarity make her an outstanding addition to our growing team.”

Louise is based in the firm’s Newcastle office and works with clients nationally.