Contentious Probate & Inheritance Claims
Arguments between relatives and family members over a person’s will can be painful and deeply divisive. We follow the guidance and code of conduct set by the Association of Contentious Trust and Probate Specialists (ACTAPS). Areas in which our contentious trust and probate team have particular experience and expertise include arguments over a person’s entitlement to be a beneficiary under a will, where there are questions over the deceased’s testamentary capacity or where undue influence may have been exercised over them, as well as where there are questions as to the construction, interpretation or validity of a will (including advising in respect of ‘Mutual Wills’ claims).
We also act in claims over the administration of an estate, including where necessary making applications to the Court to pass over or remove Executors and deal with disputes relating to a Power of Attorney.
We are regularly instructed to act for members of the family or dependants of someone who has died where either no or inadequate provision was made for them, which can result in a claim being issued for a share of the deceased’s Estate under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975. We also handle issues concerning insolvent estates.
Our contentious trust and probate team also advises in situations where there has been negligent drafting of a will and has experience of pursuing claims against solicitors on behalf of disappointed beneficiaries.
To speak to one of our Contentious Trust and Probate specialists in confidence, please contact us.
With Patrick you get the very best of attention and he is down to earth
I’m so grateful for the practical and straight forward approach. Patrick is incredibly easy to talk to. I will certainly return when the need arises.
I felt Ben listened clearly to my concerns and provided excellent advice.
A very positive experience for us. Thank you
Excellent job
The service I had with Patrick and his secretary was outstanding
We thank Patrick for all his efforts on our behalf
The Litigation team at MacDonald Oates were excellent! I had real confidence in the clear advice I was given and my case was skillfully handled throughout.
“Thanks to Ben for all his advice which helped to achieve a far better result than we could have hoped for”