Disputes about Wills & Estates

What happens when there is a dispute over someone’s Will or estate? Disputes regarding estates are becoming increasingly common. Complicated family structures, with clients having second or even third families, longer life spans and generally more valuable estates all tend to give rise to circumstances in which there are more possibilities for disputes regarding Wills and estates.

Whether you are contesting a Will, or you are unhappy with the way in which an estate or trust is being administered or have not received what you expected from an estate, our specialist contentious team can help. We have a specialist team who are experienced in dispute resolution and court applications relating to trusts and estates. Combining this with our commercial experience enables us to deliver timely and effective solutions to our clients. We understand the financial uncertainty which often exists with these types of disputes and will always provide detailed information regarding costs and the funding options available.

We can advise on:

• Will & legacy disputes   
• Family provision claims (proceedings under the Inheritance (Provision for Family & Dependants) Act 1975) where certain people are able to claim for provision against an estate on the basis that what they receive is unreasonable   
• Disputes in relation to trusts & family arrangements  
• Disputes about administration of trusts and estates including claims against executors or trustees
• Court of Protection issues

Members of our team offer a "complete service" as they are trained specialists in Probate and Trust dispute work and also liaise closely with our other specialist colleagues dealing with the law relating to the elderly and to incapacity, capital taxation; and if required, our commercial and family departments. 

A number of our team are members of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP), ensuring specialist knowledge is available to you and are also members of the “Solicitors for the Elderly” and “Dementia Friends”.

It is an unfortunate fact of life that people sometimes fall out over Wills, trusts and estates. We will always work hard to achieve the best result we can and advise you of your options throughout the process.

You can view our client service charter here.

For expert legal advice regarding wills and disputes, contact our Canterbury London, Maidstone and Tenterden solicitors today.