Contested Wills, Trusts and Estates Solicitors
Our team are able to advise you on a wide range of disputes that arise upon someone’s passing, such as:
- Will Disputes
- Inheritance Act claims
- Estate administration disputes
- Trust disputes
- Disputes regarding estate property or assets
- Proprietary estoppel claims
- Disputes regarding lifetime gifts
- Financial abuse
- Charity legacy disputes
Our Wills, Trusts & Estates Disputes services
- Financial Abuse
- Proprietary Estoppel Claims
- Trust Disputes
- Claims under the Inheritance (Provisions for Family and Dependents) Act 1975
- Charity Disputes
- Lifetime Gift Disputes
- Caveats
- Lasting Power of Attorney Disputes
- Private Client Services
- Estate Assets Disputes
- Estate Administration Disputes
- Will Disputes
- Mediation
Frequently Asked Questions
Contentious probate refers to disputes that arise after someone has passed away — usually involving the validity of a will, how an estate is being administered, or who is entitled to inherit. Our contentious probate solicitors help resolve disagreements sensitively and efficiently, protecting your rights and ensuring the estate is handled fairly.
Yes. You can contest a will if you believe it’s invalid or unfair — for example, if the person who made it lacked mental capacity, was unduly influenced, or the will was not properly signed or witnessed. A will dispute solicitor will review the evidence and advise whether you have legal grounds to challenge it.
Time limits depend on the type of claim, but most must be brought within six months of the Grant of Probate being issued. Some claims, such as disputes about validity or ownership of assets, may have longer limits. You should seek legal advice as soon as possible to avoid missing important deadlines.
Typically, beneficiaries named in a will, close family members, dependants, or those who expected to inherit but were left out may be eligible to challenge it. Your solicitor will assess your relationship to the deceased and whether you have legal standing to bring a claim.
Common reasons include: ● Claims that the will is invalid or forged ● Concerns over undue influence or lack of capacity ● Disagreements between executors and beneficiaries ● Unfair distribution of assets under the Inheritance Act ● Mismanagement or delay by executors
Yes. Under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975 , certain relatives and dependants can claim if they were not reasonably provided for. A probate litigation solicitor can advise whether your circumstances meet the criteria and help you make a claim.
If someone dies without a will, their estate is distributed according to the rules of intestacy . Disputes can arise if the distribution seems unfair or if there are questions about who should inherit. A solicitor can help clarify your legal position and, if necessary, challenge the distribution.
Simple cases may be settled within a few months through negotiation or mediation, while complex claims involving multiple parties can take a year or more. Early legal advice and a willingness to mediate can help speed up the process and reduce costs.
Yes. Many inheritance disputes are resolved through mediation or negotiated settlements , which are faster, more cost-effective, and less stressful than court proceedings. Your solicitor will guide you through these options and represent you throughout the process.
Yes. Our contentious probate solicitors act for clients locally and nationwide. Whether you’re challenging a will, questioning executor conduct, or facing an inheritance dispute, we can provide clear, compassionate, and practical legal advice.
OUR CLIENTS SAY…
“We have just completed our wills with Victoria Messent and her team and were very impressed with the service we received. Highly professional at all times, yet very friendly and informative in helping us make the right decisions to suit our circumstances.”
Ian G
“Josefine Londahl and Megan Barnes prepared three interconnecting wills for my family. They always communicated swiftly and clearly and were sensitive and flexible – accommodating home visits to discuss and sign wills due to personal circumstances.”
Tim F
“The Private Client team dealt with Probate after the death of our son and this was invaluable help. We cannot speak highly enough, and our recommendation goes out to everyone.”
Paul O’Brien – Devon
“I can’t express how grateful I am for all that you have done. The relief from the months of worry is huge and this is the best result we could have wished for.”
