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Will Dispute Solicitors

Q: Is it worth disputing a Will?

Disputing or contesting a Will may be worthwhile if you believe you have strong legal grounds and supporting evidence. Common reasons include lack of mental capacity, undue influence, fraud, financial provision disputes, or conflicts between executors or administrators. A solicitor can assess the strength of your claim.

Q: Do I need a solicitor to contest a Will?

There is no legal requirement to hire a solicitor to contest a Will, but professional legal advice can help avoid costly mistakes and delays. A specialist contentious probate solicitor can guide you through the process, help gather evidence, and represent you if the dispute proceeds to court.

Q: Can I contest a Will even if I'm not named in it?

Yes, you may be able to contest a Will even if you are not named in it, depending on whether you have a legitimate legal interest in the estate. For example, spouses, children, dependants, or individuals with financial ties to the deceased may be able to bring a claim. A solicitor can advise whether you have valid grounds.

Q: What is a probate caveat, and should I enter one?

A probate caveat is a formal legal notice that prevents a grant of probate from being issued for an estate. While the caveat is in place, the estate cannot be administered. It typically lasts six months but can be renewed. A solicitor can advise whether entering a caveat is appropriate in your situation.

At Bell Lamb & Joynson, we understand that disputes about a will can be extremely stressful. Our team of Will Disputes solicitors are highly experienced and specialises in Contentious Probate and Disputes, including all types of Will Disputes. You can rely on our expert team of solicitors to support and advise as we help resolve your dispute.

What are Will Disputes?

A Will dispute happens when someone challenges whether a Will is valid or fair. Common reasons for this include concerns about whether the person who made the Will was pressured or influenced, whether the Will was signed and prepared properly or if an individual believes the deceased had mental capacity when writing the Will. These issues can be complex, timely and costly, so it’s essential to get professional advice early.

Contesting a Will at Bell Lamb & Joynson

We have extensive experience managing Will Disputes across the UK. Our Will Dispute solicitors can support all individuals with disputes, whether you are:

Contesting a Will you believe is invalid
Defending a Will as an executor or beneficiary
Involved in disagreements about how an estate is being administered

With over 200 years of experience, you can count on us to handle complex court procedures during what can be a difficult time.

Common Types of Will Disputes

Get in Touch With Our Will Dispute Solicitors Today

At Bell Lamb & Joynson, our team of proficient Will Dispute solicitors is here to assist you. We support both sides of Will Disputes, using a sensitive and professional approach to prove and disprove the validity of your claim.

Our award-winning Will Dispute solicitors are just a call away. Please contact us today.

Will Dispute Solicitors FAQs

How long do I have to contest a Will in the UK?

The limit on contesting a Will in the UK depends on the type of claim:

Validity Claim - Generally, no fixed time, but it's advisable to make a claim sooner rather than later, as delays can make the case more complex
Inheritance Act Claim - Six months from the grant of probate or grant of letters of administration

Your trusted Will Dispute solicitor at Bell Lamb & Joynson can help you get started in contesting a Will with no delays.

Is it worth disputing a Will?

Yes, disputing or contesting a Will in the UK is worth it if you believe that you have strong legal grounds and a dedicated Will Dispute solicitor to help you. There are many reasons why you may want to dispute a Will, including lack of mental capacity, undue influence or coercion, fraud, or issues more specific regarding elder abuse, failure of financial provision, and conflicts between executors or administrators. Strong evidence to support your dispute is necessary

Do I need a solicitor to contest a Will?

There is no legal requirement to hire a solicitor to help contest a Will, but often, where parties choose not to instruct solicitors, the disputes can last much longer, and the breakdown of communication and cooperation may be irreparable and cost more in the long run. Early intervention by instructing a specialist contentious probate solicitor can avoid costly mistakes.

Our Will Dispute solicitors are both knowledgeable and experienced, providing trusted legal support, guidance, and advice as you tackle often complex and strict legal rules. We’ve worked with many clients contesting a will, helping them gather relevant evidence to later represent them in court.

Can I contest a Will even if I'm not named in it?

Yes, you can contest a Will even if you aren't named in it. However, it depends on whether you have a legitimate interest or legal right.

For instance, if you aren't a close relative or spouse and have no connection or interest in the finances from the deceased's estate, you may potentially struggle to contest a Will. However, saying this, even weak claims can be brought and can achieve a settlement of money from an estate. Our contesting a Will solicitors can explain the grounds to contest a Will in more detail upon contacting us.

What is a probate caveat, and should I enter one?

A probate caveat is a type of formal legal notice that prevents a grant of probate from being issued for someone's estate.

While the caveat is in place, no one can apply to administer the estate. If you have concerns regarding the validity of the deceased person's Will, you may wish to enter a probate caveat, which can last for at least six months and be renewed if necessary. Will dispute solicitors can advise on tactics and how a caveat can be entered or removed

Still got a question? Get in touch!