Contentious Probate

Contentious Probate Solicitors in London

Our Contentious Probate Solicitors in London have extensive experience helping clients resolve disputes over wills, estates, and inheritance. Whether you are contesting a will, defending a claim, or dealing with executor disagreements, our specialist lawyers offer clear, practical advice and representation throughout the process.

What Is Contentious Probate?

Contentious probate refers to any dispute concerning the validity of a will or the administration of an estate. These disagreements can arise for many reasons, from concerns about mental capacity and undue influence, to disputes between beneficiaries or executors.

At GN Law, we understand how stressful these situations can be, particularly when family relationships are involved. Our goal is to help you resolve disputes as efficiently and sensitively as possible, through negotiation, mediation, or litigation if required.

How can we help?

Our experienced team of probate and inheritance dispute solicitors can assist with all types of contentious probate matters, including:

Contesting a Will

We advise clients who believe a will may be invalid due to:

• Lack of mental capacity
• Undue influence or coercion
• Fraud or forgery
• Failure to comply with legal formalities

Inheritance Act Claims

If you have been left out of a will or have not been left reasonable financial provision, you may be able to make a claim under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975.

We act for spouses, partners, children, and dependants seeking fair provision from an estate. It is important to note that such claims must be brought within 6 months of the date of the grant of probate. It is important to seek legal advice as soon as possible.

Executor and Trustee Disputes

Disagreements often arise between executors, trustees, and beneficiaries. We can help resolve disputes about:

• How the estate is being managed
• Delays in administration
• Breach of fiduciary duty
• Applications to remove or replace executors

Disputes over Intestacy

Where there is no will, disputes can occur about who should inherit and how the estate should be divided. We provide expert advice on intestacy rules and represent clients in disputes over entitlement.

Fraud, Negligence and Estate Mismanagement

We also assist in cases involving allegations of misconduct, negligence, or financial abuse during the administration of an estate.

Interpretation of wills

Wills can be complex and can be difficult to interpret (especially homemade wills). As a result, disputes can arise over their interpretation especially where their interpretation has a significant impact on who gets what. Sometimes, you may suspect that the will writer (e.g. a solicitor) made a mistake, i.e. drafted in the will other than in accordance with their client’s instructions. If so, and if you are a beneficiary who has been negatively impacted by this error, you may have a professional negligence claim against the will writer.

Some clerical errors in wills may be capable of correction, and there are circumstances where the will writer may have to pay some or all of your costs of seeking to have the error rectified by the court.

Why choose GN Law?

GN Law is recognised by the Law Society’s Wills and Inheritance Quality Scheme (WIQS), ensuring you receive the highest standard of specialist advice.

• Specialist Expertise: Our team includes lawyers experienced in both contentious and non-contentious probate matters.
• Personal Support: We take a compassionate, client-centred approach to help you through what can be an emotional and complex process.
• Strategic Resolution: We prioritise early resolution through negotiation and mediation, avoiding litigation where possible.
• Comprehensive Legal Support: We work closely with our Wills, Probate, and Court of Protection teams to provide seamless, full-service advice.

Costs

The cost of resolving a contentious probate matter depends on its complexity and whether court proceedings are required. We provide transparent cost estimates from the outset and discuss all funding options with you.

Hourly Rates:

• Andrew Guile (Senior Solicitor) – £325 + VAT
• Associate Solicitor – £265 + VAT
• Paralegal/Trainee Solicitor – £150 + VAT

We are happy to discuss fixed fees for specific stages of work and can arrange for the costs to be spread on a monthly basis. You should always check to see if you have legal expenses insurance. Cases can settle at any time if/when an agreement is reached and parties often bear their own costs, however, if an out of court settlement cannot be reached the matter is litigated, the court will decide who pays the costs of the litigation.

Timescales

The timescale of a contentious probate dispute varies depending on complexity and the willingness of parties to reach agreement:

• Initial assessment and pre-action correspondence: 2–3 months
• Negotiation or mediation: 3–6 months
• Court proceedings (if required): 12–18 months

We will keep you informed at every stage and work efficiently to achieve the best possible outcome.

Expert Guidance Through Contentious Probate

At GN Law, we combine legal expertise with empathy to help you resolve disputes involving wills, estates, and inheritance. Our team acts for clients across London and the UK, offering straightforward advice and practical solutions.

If you are dealing with a will dispute, executor disagreement, or inheritance claim, we are here to help. If you would like more information and advice, please contact our Contentious Probate Team on 020 8492 2290 or email us at sols@gnlaw.co.uk.