Contentious Probate Solicitors

Losing a loved one is never easy. Dealing with grief and handling Probate and Estate administration at the same time can enhance the emotional strain. 

This already stressful time can become complicated if disagreements arise over the testator’s (deceased’s) Will, the distribution of their estate, or how their affairs are being managed. Disputes between family members, executors, or beneficiaries can quickly turn heated and personal. 

At Eric Robinson Solicitors, our specialist contentious probate solicitors are here to help. With years of experience in resolving inheritance disputes, we offer a sensitive yet pragmatic approach. We resolve disputes fairly, efficiently and where possible, in a way that avoids court proceedings. We take the time to understand your situation, provide clear advice, and work towards the best possible resolution.

Book your fixed-fee probate advice hour with one of our experts today for £150 plus VAT (£180). Contact your local Eric Robinson Solicitors office to get started. 

What is a Probate dispute? 

A Probate dispute arises when there is a disagreement about how a deceased person’s estate is being administered, or how their assets are being distributed. The term ‘Probate dispute’ is a broad one and can mean any dispute over the administration of an estate, whereas a Will dispute concerns disputes solely focussed on the contents, validity or legality of a Will. 

As well as encompassing Will disputes, Probate disputes can involve concerns over how executors are handling the estate, attempts to replace executors, or feelings of unfair treatment among family members or beneficiaries.

Probate disputes are legally complex, emotionally charged, and can have long-term effects on family relationships and financial futures. Whether you’re contesting a Will, concerned about undue influence, or feel your inheritance rights have been overlooked, it’s vital to seek expert legal advice as early as possible.

Common types of disputes

Probate disputes can arise for many reasons. Some of the most common types include:

Disputes over the validity of the Will

• Lack of mental capacity: Claims that the testator did not have mental capacity to make or change a Will that accurately reflected their wishes. 
• Undue influence: Believing that the testator was coerced into writing their Will in a specific way. 
• Lack of proper execution: The Will was not signed or witnessed correctly. 
• Forgery or fraud: Claims that the signature on the Will was falsified by someone who was not the testator. 

If you are writing a Will and want to avoid any confusion for your loved ones, take a look at our Will writing guide, or enlist one of our Will writing solicitors to support you.  

Inheritance Act claims

Individuals who were financially dependent on the deceased can claim they are owed a share of inheritance even if they were left out of the Will under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act (1975). 

Executor or Administrator disputes 

People may raise concerns about an executor’s conduct and how they are handling the administration of the Estate. Issues may include:

• Delays in distributing the inheritance
• Mismanagement of finances
• Lack of transparency or communication with beneficiaries and interested parties 

These concerns can lead to applications to remove and replace executors. 

Disputes between beneficiaries

When wording is ambiguous, it is common that disputes will arise between beneficiaries over who is entitled to what. 

Disputes when there is no Will

When someone dies without a valid Will, disputes often arise over who should inherit, particularly in blended families or where cohabiting partners are involved.

Do I have grounds to contest? 

Not everyone can challenge a Will. You must have a legal right or interest in the estate, and your reasons for contesting must meet specific criteria under probate and inheritance law.

You may have grounds to contest if you are:

• A spouse or civil partner of the deceased
• A former spouse who has not remarried
• A child or stepchild
• Someone who was financially dependent on the deceased
• A cohabiting partner who lived with the deceased for at least two years
• A beneficiary named in a previous Will
• An executor or person with a legal interest in the estate

If you believe that you have been unfairly excluded from a Will, or that the Will is invalid, you need to act quickly as there are strict limits on how, and when you can make a claim. Speak to a qualified Probate dispute solicitor today to understand your rights. 

Why choose Eric Robinson Solicitors?

At Eric Robibson Solicitors, we understand that Probate disputes are about more than money, they are about people, relationships and respecting a loved one’s final wishes. That’s why we combine legal expertise with empathy and discretion. 

Wherever possible, we also try to avoid the case needing to go to court by utilising alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, which avoids costly litigation. 

Fixed fee dispute advice hour 

We know that legal disputes can feel daunting. We offer a fixed-fee advice hour with one of our dispute and litigation solicitors to help you understand your options, and give you the confidence to take the next step. 

This is your opportunity to get expert legal advice without pressure or commitment. Many clients find that this initial hour gives them the insight they need to resolve issues quickly and cost-effectively.  The fee for an advice hour is £150 plus VAT (£180). Book your appointment today.

Contact your closest office

Probate disputes are emotional, complex, and time-sensitive. Whether you’re contesting a Will, worried about executor misconduct, or simply unsure of your rights, expert legal guidance is crucial.

At Eric Robinson Solicitors we’re here to support you with compassionate, professional advice every step of the way. From mediation to litigation, we work tirelessly to protect your interests and achieve a fair resolution.

Contact your nearest office today to speak with one of our experienced contentious probate solicitors, or book your fixed-fee advice hour now.

We have solicitors offices in:

• Southampton
• Hedge End
• Chandlers Ford
• Winchester
• Lymington 
• Shoreham-by-Sea
• Marlborough
• Richmond Upon Thames