Disputes relating to a person’s estate can be complex, emotionally charged, and legally demanding. Contentious probate refers to when disagreements arise over a will, trust, or administration of an estate. Specialist contentious probate solicitors can help you contest probate efficiently and effectively. At Graham Evans & Partners Solicitors, our contentious probate team advises individuals, beneficiaries, executors, and trustees involved in contentious probate disputes.
Whether you want to dispute probate, bring an inheritance act claim, or defend a contentious probate claim, getting early legal advice from experienced contentious probate lawyers can assist you in achieving the best outcome for your circumstances.
What Is a Probate Dispute?
A probate dispute arises where there is disagreement about a will, estate, or the probate process. These disputes may occur before or after a grant of probate or letters of administration has been issued by the probate registry. Contentious probate solicitors specialise in resolving disputes involving the validity of a will, inheritance rights, executor conduct, and trust and estate matters.
Common types of disputes include:
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Contested wills due to a lack of knowledge and approval
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Allegations of undue influence or fraud
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Disputes between beneficiaries and executors
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Claims for financial provision from the estate
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Trust disputes involving trustees
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Disputes arising under intestacy rules
Each contentious probate case requires careful legal analysis and a tailored strategy.
When Can a Will or Estate Be Contested?
Will Validity and Contentious Wills
Contentious wills can be challenged if there are concerns about their validity. This includes cases involving mental capacity, improper execution, or undue influence. Disputes over wills frequently arise where family members believe the will does not reflect the deceased’s true intentions.
Our contentious probate solicitors help clients gather evidence, assess prospects, and determine whether to bring a claim in the High Court if necessary.
Inheritance Act Claims
Under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975 (the Act 1975), eligible individuals may make a claim under the Inheritance Act if reasonable financial provision has not been made. These claims often arise where dependants or family members have been excluded from the will or inadequately provided for.
Our inheritance dispute solicitors regularly advise on financial provision claims and represent clients in probate litigation.
Executor and Estate Administration Disputes
Disputes involving the executor are common in probate cases. Allegations may include delays, conflicts of interest, or failure to act in the best interests of the estate. In some cases, disputes arise after probate has been granted or where the grant of probate being issued is contested.
Our contentious probate solicitors can assist with:
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Applications to remove or replace an executor
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Challenges to estate accounts
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Disputes concerning estate administration
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Claims involving probate or letters of administration
Where necessary, we assist clients in issuing court proceedings to protect the estate and ensure proper administration.
Trust and Estate Disputes
Disputed probate can also involve trusts. Trust disputes can arise between beneficiaries and a trustee, or where there is disagreement over the interpretation or management of a trust. As contentious trust and probate specialists, our solicitors advise on issues involving trust and probate, ensuring compliance with fiduciary duties.
Our experience spans contentious trusts and probate, including disputes related to lifetime trusts and trusts created by will.
How Contentious Probate Solicitors Can Help
The team of contentious probate solicitors at Graham Evans & Partners Solicitors provides comprehensive legal support across all stages of a dispute. Our approach prioritises dispute resolution where possible, while remaining fully prepared to pursue litigation to achieve the best outcome for our clients.
We assist by:
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Reviewing the merits of your contentious probate claim
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Advising on costs, fee agreements, and no-win no-fee basis options
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Managing negotiations and mediation
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Representing clients in High Court probate litigation
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Advising beneficiaries, executors, and trustees
Our wills dispute solicitors help clients navigate complex wills and inheritance disputes with clarity and confidence.
Experienced Contentious Probate Solicitors You Can Trust
Graham Evans & Partners Solicitors specialises in contentious probate and has an established reputation for handling a broad range of contentious probate work. Our contentious probate lawyers are experts in managing disputes involving estates of varying complexity and value.
As part of one of the most experienced probate teams in the UK, we combine technical expertise with a practical, client-focused approach.
Contact Us for Specialist Legal Advice
If you are involved in a probate dispute, considering whether probate can be contested, or need advice on an estate dispute, early guidance from specialist contested probate solicitors is crucial.
Contact us today to speak with our contentious probate team. We will assess your situation, explain your options, and help you determine the most effective way forward. With Graham Evans Solicitors, you can be confident that your case will be handled with professionalism, discretion, and a focus on achieving the best possible outcome.