Contentious Probate Solicitors
Specialist solicitors protecting your interests in wills and inheritance disputes.
Protecting your position in inheritance disputes.
When someone dies, the expectation is that their affairs will be dealt with clearly and fairly. A will should provide certainty and executors are expected to carry out their responsibilities properly and without conflict.
But disputes do arise.
The terms of a will may differ from expectations. Questions may arise about how it was prepared or whether the person had the necessary mental capacity. In other situations, disagreement centres on how an estate or trust is being administered.
At a time when emotions are already heightened, uncertainty about financial security or family intentions can quickly lead to conflict.
Our contentious probate solicitors are experienced in resolving these situations carefully and strategically. Whether you are considering bringing a claim or responding to one, we provide clear advice and practical guidance to protect your legal and financial position from the outset.
Timing is everything
Contentious probate claims often involve strict time limits and sensitive evidence. Delay can close off options and raise legal fees.
Early legal advice allows you to:
- Identify time limits.
- Understand your position clearly.
- Preserve the right evidence.
- Clarify likely outcomes.
- Make informed decisions before matters escalate.
Even an initial conversation can help bring much needed clarity at what can feel like an uncertain time.
Call us on 0203 993 4813 or
When inheritance becomes a dispute.
Contentious probate refers to legal disputes connected to a deceased person’s estate. These issues typically arise where there are questions about:
- The validity of a will.
- Whether reasonable financial provision has been made.
- The conduct of executors or trustees.
- The administration of estates or trusts.
- Capacity and related Court of Protection matters.
Some cases focus on whether a will is legally valid. Others accept the will but question whether it produces a fair outcome in the circumstances. Other disputes centre on how the estate is being handled.
Our contentious probate services.
- Will disputes
We advise on will disputes where concerns arise about mental capacity, undue influence or whether the will was properly prepared and executed. We also represent clients bringing will disputes and those defending the validity of a will or the estate.
- Inheritance Act claims
We assist with Inheritance Act claims where a will or intestacy does not make reasonable financial provision for a spouse, partner, child or dependant, advising clients bringing or defending these claims.
- Trust disputes
We advise on trust disputes involving the interpretation of trust terms, the distribution of trust assets and the rights and entitlements of beneficiaries.
- Trustee and executor disputes
We advise on trustee and executor disputes involving allegations of breach of duty, mismanagement, delay or conflicts of interest in the administration of estates and trusts.
- Power of attorney disputes
We advise on disputes involving lasting powers of attorney, including concerns about misuse of authority, financial decisions made by attorneys and the protection of vulnerable individuals.
- Court of Protection disputes
We advise on Court of Protection disputes concerning mental capacity, statutory wills and decisions made by deputies that affect vulnerable individuals and their estate planning.
A calm and strategic approach.
Inheritance disputes require more than legal knowledge. They require judgement.
We take time to understand the wider context – the family background, financial position and history leading up to the dispute. We provide clear advice on:
- Whether there are viable legal grounds to bring or defend a claim.
- The strength of the evidence available.
- The likely costs and potential outcomes.
- Proportionate next steps.
Where possible, we seek resolution through negotiation or mediation. Where court proceedings are necessary, we act decisively and with focus.
We advise claimants and respondents, including executors and trustees concerned about personal liability.
Call us on 0203 993 4813 or
Expertise in resolving complex inheritance disputes.
Not all private client firms are equipped to handle contested estate proceedings. Thomas Mansfield Solicitors is.
Our contentious probate solicitors work as part of a wider dispute resolution team recognised for its strong litigation capability. In 2026, the team was named a finalist in the LexisNexis Dispute Resolution Team of the Year awards, reflecting the strength and experience behind our approach to complex disputes.
We combine that litigation expertise with the discretion and technical private client knowledge required in sensitive inheritance matters. This enables us to pursue constructive resolution where possible, while being fully prepared to act robustly if formal proceedings become necessary.
Thomas Mansfield Solicitors is also accredited under The Law Society’s Lexcel standard, recognising our commitment to high standards of client care and effective practice management.
Meet our team
Talk to our contentious probate solicitors.
If you are facing a dispute involving an estate or the management of someone’s affairs, obtaining legal advice at an early stage can make a significant difference to how the situation develops.
Our contentious probate solicitors take time to understand the circumstances and the relationships involved. We assess the legal position carefully and explain the options available, whether the issue concerns a will, inheritance, a trust, estate administration, or disputes involving powers of attorney or deputyship.
Whether you are considering bringing a claim or responding to one, we provide clear, strategic advice to help you move forward with confidence.
Contact our disputes team to discuss your situation and receive clear guidance on the next steps.
Frequently asked questions
Can I challenge a will simply because I think it is unfair?
You can't contest a will just because you don't agree with what it says. There must be valid legal grounds, such as lack of capacity, undue influence, pressure or improper execution. In some cases, you may be able to bring a separate claim for reasonable financial provision. Our contentious probate solicitors will assess your specific circumstances and advise honestly on whether there is a viable legal basis to proceed.
Do contentious probate disputes always go to court?
Many inheritance disputes are resolved through negotiation or mediation without the need for a full court trial. Early structured discussions can often narrow issues and achieve a practical settlement. However, we provide strong strategic representation throughout court proceedings where necessary.
How long do I have to bring a claim?
Time limits vary depending on the type of claim. Inheritance Act claims must usually be issued within six months after probate is granted. Other types of disputes often have limitation periods or practical constraints, particularly if assets are being distributed. Delay can significantly affect your options, so it is important to seek advice as soon as you have concerns.
How much does a contentious probate claim cost?
Costs vary depending on the complexity of the dispute (e.g., contested beneficiaries, need for forensic accounting), estate value bands and whether the matter settles early or proceeds to court. We provide clear information about likely costs and funding options at the outset, so you understand the likely costs before decisions are made.
What is an Inheritance Act claim?
An Inheritance Act claim is an application to the court for reasonable financial provision from an estate where a will or intestacy does not make adequate provision. Spouses, partners, children and dependants may be eligible to apply. These claims are highly fact-specific and usually subject to a six-month time limit from the grant of probate. Seek specialist advice is essential before proceeding.
What should I do if I am an executor facing a dispute?
If you are an executor and someone has made a claim, do not ignore it. Executors have duties to act in the best interests of the estate and may be concerned about personal responsibility. Address the claim promptly, and take legal to ensure your response is appropriate – that way you shield yourself from unnecessary risk and can continue administering the estate properly.
When should I speak to contentious probate solicitors?
You should seek advice as soon as concerns arise about a will or the administration of an estate. Disputed probate claims are often subject to strict time limits, and estates can be distributed before issues are fully investigated. Early advice allows us to assess whether there are proper legal grounds to act and to take steps to protect your position. If you're unsure whether you have a claim, a short call with our probate solicitors will clarify your options and next steps.
Who can bring a contentious probate claim?
Eligibility depends on the nature of the claim. Those challenging the validity of a will must show they have a legal interest in the estate. Inheritance Act claims are limited to specific categories of applicant, including spouses, civil partners, cohabitants, children and dependants. A careful assessment of your standing is required before proceeding.
Contact us
Getting in touch couldn’t be easier. Use our form or call us to speak to an experienced solicitor in confidence.
Please note we cannot offer legal aid.