Solicitors for Will Disputes (Contentious Probate) and Inheritance Disputes

We understand that life is not always straightforward; families are not always happy and the prospect of receiving or being excluded from inheritance can trigger disagreements amongst the surviving family, after someone has died. There may also be concerns as to the validity of Wills, either due to lack of capacity, duress or undue influence and the lack of provision for family and dependants.

Our Private Client and Dispute Resolution teams work together to provide a well-rounded, creative and knowledgeable service, whether you are considering making a claim or need to defend one. We approach each matter with tenacity and sensitivity with the aim of settling the dispute as quickly and efficiently as possible.  

Our experienced team can advise on all types of disputes and disagreements concerning Wills, Trusts and Inheritance, including:

• Will Disputes including claims of invalidity
• Executor, Beneficiary and Trust Disputes
• Lifetime Gift Disputes

There has been a significant rise in the number of Contentious Probate disputes over recent years, possibly linked to the significant change in family structures with remarriages, step families and co-habitation. Adding to this, is an increase in ‘DIY’ Wills where mistakes may have been made, rending them either invalid or open to challenge.

Wherever possible, we will try to resolve disputes pragmatically by opening up dialogue with the other parties and attempting to come to an agreed outcome to avoid high costs and a lengthy legal process. Court is only ever a last resort and our experience shows that many of these types of issues can be successfully dealt with, without involving the courts.

Podcast

Our 'Planning for your Future' podcast series discusses, in everyday language, how planning can help you navigate your way through the ups and downs of life and how getting your affairs in place now can assist your loved ones’ future responsibilities.

In this episode, Managing Partner & Head of Commercial & Dispute Resolution, Paul Reader, talks in detail about Will and Inheritance Disputes and the importance of the Inheritance Act (provision for family and dependants) 1975.

Podcast

In this podcast, Solicitor, Simeon Blewett, talks in detail about what is involved in removing an Executor under a Will.

Simeon looks at the types of situations which would make someone want to remove an Executor, whether an Executor can just renounce their position, how the courts decide if they will grant an application for removal of an Executor and the potential costs involved in doing this.