Contentious Probate

If you need help disputing a Will following the death of a loved one or an estranged family member, our team of solicitors can help. 

Each Will dispute arises from a unique set of circumstances. Our initial priority is to listen to your problem so we understand the specifics of your situation; after that if we feel you have a strong case, we will support, advise and represent you until your dispute is resolved. We can help you with:

• Contesting a Will
• Inheritance Act Claims 
• Disputes between Beneficiaries 
• Professional Negligence 

What is Contentious Probate?

Contentious Probate is the term applied to any dispute relating to the administration of a deceased person’s estate.  This can involve questions over the legitimacy of a Will, a dispute over its interpretation, or instances where the beneficiaries are in dispute with the executors.  We use our experience in this specialist area of law to ensure the best possible outcome for our clients.

Is there a time limit?

In Contentious Probate claims, time is of the essence.  For example, certain types of claims need to be made within six months of the Grant of Representation or Probate.  We encourage you to seek advice at the earliest opportunity. 

What are the grounds for contesting a Will?

The grounds for contesting a Will are limited.  Your solicitor will explain these to you in more detail once we understand the circumstances of your case.  To successfully contest a Will, we will need to establish that the Will was deficient in one of the following ways:   

• Lack of Testamentary capacity
• Lack of valid execution
• Revocation
• Lack of knowledge and approval
• Undue influence
• Fraudulent wills and forged wills
• Drafting errors

What do you charge?

Our first job is to ensure that we find the funding model most suitable to your situation.  We can offer fixed fees, ‘no win, no fee’, hourly rates, or can often work in partnership with your legal expenses insurance company.  Your solicitor will talk to you about this at the outset of your case. Please rest assured that any initial conversations are free of charge. Read more here.