5 Minutes with Ashleigh Wong – Head of Contentious Probate & Disputes
We sat down with Ashleigh Wong, the new Head of our Contentious Probate & Disputes department at Bell Lamb & Joynson. Ashleigh supports clients facing disputes over wills and estates, and here she explains what that involves and how she can help.
Can you tell us about your role at Bell Lamb & Joynson?
My role is to guide clients through emotionally complex and often stressful disputes involving wills and estates. These matters can be deeply sensitive, clients are often dealing with grief, strained family relationships, and the prospect of costly court proceedings. I bring not only legal expertise but also empathy and understanding, helping clients feel supported and informed every step of the way.
For those who may not know, what is contentious probate and disputes in simple terms?
Contentious probate refers to disagreements that arise after someone has passed away, usually around their will, their estate, or how their assets are meant to be shared. These disputes can happen for many reasons—someone might feel they've been unfairly left out, there may be questions about whether the will is valid, or tensions between executors and beneficiaries.
At its heart, it’s about making sure the wishes of the person who’s died are honoured, while also ensuring the process is fair and transparent for those left behind. These situations are often emotionally charged and our role is to help guide people through them with clarity and compassion.
What led you to specialise in this area of law?
I was drawn to contentious probate because it’s such a personal and emotionally complex area of law. It involves grief, family tensions, and often the stress of potential court proceedings. For me, it brings together my passion for civil litigation with a genuine desire to help people through difficult times.
I didn’t just want to be a solicitor who knows the law — I wanted to be someone who understands what clients are going through. Being able to support them, offer clarity and help find resolution when things feel overwhelming is incredibly rewarding.
Why is it important that Bell Lamb & Joynson now offers this service?
Bell Lamb & Joynson has a long-standing reputation for supporting families and individuals across generations. By offering contentious probate services, we’re filling a vital gap — ensuring that when disputes do arise, our clients don’t have to look elsewhere. They can rely on the same trusted firm to guide them through every stage, with continuity and care.
What types of cases or situations can you help clients with?
We deal with a wide range of disputes, including:
- Challenges to the validity of a will
- Claims under the Inheritance Act for reasonable financial provision
- Executor or trustee disputes
- Concerns about undue influence or lack of capacity
- Disagreements between beneficiaries
- Misappropriation of estate assets or even
- Financial abuse of the elderly and vulnerable
Whether it’s a straightforward concern or a complex family dispute, we’re here to help.
How do you approach sensitive disputes to make the process easier for clients?
With empathy and transparency. We understand that these cases often involve grief, family tension, and uncertainty. So we take time to actively listen, explain the options clearly, and tailor our approach to each client’s needs. Our goal is to reduce stress, avoid unnecessary conflict, and find the best possible outcome — whether through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
If someone suspects there may be a dispute over a will or estate, what should they do first?
The first step is to seek legal advice as early as possible. Even if you're unsure whether you have a case, a quick conversation can help clarify your position and protect your rights. Timing is crucial —there are strict deadlines in probate disputes, and early advice can prevent costly mistakes.
Why is it so important to seek legal advice early in these cases?
It's important to seek legal advice early because probate disputes can escalate quickly. Early legal advice helps preserve evidence, avoid procedural pitfalls, and often leads to faster, more amicable resolutions. It also ensures that you’re not pressured into decisions without understanding your rights or the long-term consequences.
What can clients expect when they first contact you for help?
They’ll be met with understanding and clear guidance. We start with an initial consultation to understand the situation, explain the legal framework, and outline possible options and our recommended next steps. Clients can expect honesty, professionalism, and a commitment to resolving their matter as efficiently and compassionately as possible.
If someone watching thinks they might need your help, how can they get in touch?
You can contact us directly through the Bell Lamb & Joynson website, call our office, or drop into one of our offices. We’re always happy to have an initial chat, even if you’re just exploring your options. Don’t wait if something doesn’t feel right, we’re here to help.
Contentious Probate can be emotionally intense, how do you switch off after a hard day in the office or court?
I do get emotionally invested in my clients’ cases—it’s hard not to when you’re helping people through such personal and often painful situations. Early on, I found it challenging to fully switch off outside of work. But over time, I’ve learned how important it is to create space to recharge.
These days, my daily walks with my two dogs and a regular yoga practice help me stay grounded. They give me the balance I need to be fully present for my clients, while also looking after my own wellbeing.
If you’re dealing with a dispute over a will or estate and would like to speak to Ashleigh, our Head of Contentious Probate & Disputes, today for friendly, professional advice.