Maria Coker

Expertise

Maria is a legal director at Gateley, specialising in non-contentious and contentious construction. She has over 10 years’ experience in the industry, including time spent working in-house. The experience in house has given her valuable insight into some of the challenges that are faced in the industry and the need for commercial, pragmatic and tailored advice.

How do you help clients?

I help clients manage risk on construction projects, by drafting and negotiating the construction documents, advising on issues arising throughout the course of a project and resolving disputes.

Experience

1. Drafting and negotiating main contracts based on JCT and NEC standard forms, including ancillary documentation, to help clients manage risk.
2. Advising funders and employers on the construction aspects of development finance.
3. Providing strategic advice to clients throughout the life cycle of a project.
4. Advising on contentious construction claims, including regarding defective works, extensions of time, loss and expense, liquidated damages and variations.
5. Drafting and negotiating consultant appointments, sub-contracts and collateral warranties.