Thank you Maureen

After 34 years with the company, and two decades at the helm, Managing Partner, Maureen Cawthorn has taken the decision to retire.

Maureen, who studied at the University of Manchester and the College of Law, Chester, qualified as a solicitor in 1989. Following studies at the University of Cambridge, she also qualified as a notary in 2007.  

A specialist in litigation and employment law, Maureen joined the firm’s Litigation Department in 1992 and became a partner in 1997. In 2000 she managed the opening of our Huddersfield office. Accompanied by just one trainee and one secretary at the time, the founding of this new branch marked the start of the firm’s expansion beyond Halifax.

Since becoming Managing Director (MD) in 2007, Maureen has been instrumental in driving the firm’s evolution and expansion, while ensuring it remains an independent legal practice.

During her tenure, we also merged with Huddersfield law firm, Norcliffe and Co, in 2012, and Calderdale-based Bearders Solicitors in 2013, the latter resulting in the opening of our Brighouse office.

Supported by a hard-working team of Directors and colleagues, these changes have seen the firm grow from a single office practice in Halifax, to one with multiple branches that serve the wider communities of Calderdale and Kirklees. At the same time, the firm has grown significantly in colleague numbers and delivers a greater range of legal services.  

Another area where Maureen has had a considerable impact is in the firm’s commitment to charities.

Since becoming MD, the practice and its employees have supported numerous local charities and good causes, including Overgate Hospice, the local RSPCA branch and Huddersfield Literature Festival, to name a few. Maureen is also a trustee of The Next Step Trust, based in Halifax, a charity for young adults with complex needs.

While she may be stepping down from her role as MD, Maureen will continue to undertake notary work going forward.

All the staff at Wilkinson Woodward wishes to offer sincere thanks to Maureen for not only her commitment to the firm, employees and clients over the years, but for her inspirational leadership.