Contentious Probate

We deal with a broad range of disputes relating to wills, inheritance and probate. A more legalistic term also commonly used for these types of disputes is contentious probate.

It's a good idea to ensure you have the right lawyers representing you.

These types of disputes are becoming more common, are complex and risky and generally you need to act fast.

Contentious probate lawyer experience

We have highly rated and specialist lawyers with a proven track record. We are able to discuss different forms of funding including the possibility of conditional fees (no win no fee).

We can advise you if you have concerns :-

• about the validity of a will - perhaps it was not properly signed or witnessed or is not the true correct will.

• that the deceased was not mentally competent when making the will

• that the deceased may have been unlawfully pressured (influenced) when making their will

• that you have been excluded in the will (this can apply whether the deceased left a will or did not)

• that the executors and/or trustees are incompetent and/or are not fulfilling their role lawfully or fairly.

We act for both Claimants and Defendants in these types of cases and can even provide guidance on mediation to resolve matters.

With experts in many of our 26 office locations, we have the right lawyer for you in the right location. Please get in contact to discuss your case and find out why we are one of the UK's fastest growing law firms.

Making a claim after being left out of a will

The Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975 allows certain groups of people to claim that the will does not leave them reasonable financial provision, often where they have been excluded or not left much in the will.

See our more detailed guide to these types of claims.

Our team of experts will be able to advise you on the merits of your case and whether this type of claim would be the right option for you. If you would like further guidance on any of the above, or wish to instruct a Solicitor, please get in touch.

Time limits for claims

There is no strict time limit for challenging the validity of a will in the UK. However, it's crucial to act promptly to avoid potential complications like estate distribution or asset disposal.   The most important thing to do is to consider lodging a caveat at the Probate Registry, although you should take legal advice before doing so..

If you believe the will is invalid due to issues like lack of mental capacity, undue influence, or forgery, you can challenge it even after probate has been granted. However, it's advisable to act as soon as possible.  

For claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975, you generally have six months from the date of the Grant of Probate or Letters of Administration to make a claim for financial provision.