Wills, Trusts & Estate Disputes

At Bennett Griffin, we understand that disputes over Wills, trusts, and estates can be deeply personal and often complex, even if they seem simple in the first instance.

Our experienced team of dispute resolution solicitors based in West Sussex is dedicated to providing expert legal guidance to help you navigate these challenging times.

Whether you want to contest a Will, deal with inheritance disputes, or face issues with trusts and estates, our team is here to protect your interests with discretion and professionalism.

Contact our dispute resolution team today to see how we can help.

Our Services

At Bennett Griffin, we offer a comprehensive suite of legal services tailored to address disputes related to Wills, trusts, and estates.

Our experienced solicitors are adept at handling a wide array of cases, providing each client with personalised and strategic legal solutions.

Below is an overview of our specialised services in this area:

• Trust Disputes: We assist beneficiaries and trustees in resolving conflicts concerning the management or terms of trusts, ensuring that trusts are administered in accordance with the settlor’s intentions and legal requirements.
• Inheritance Act Claims: If you believe you have been unfairly left out of a will or inadequately provided for, our solicitors can help you make a claim under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975.
• Contesting a Will: Our team offers expert guidance on challenging the validity of a will, whether it concerns issues of capacity, undue influence, or improper execution.
• Contentious Probate: We handle disputes that arise during the execution of a will, including conflicts among beneficiaries or between beneficiaries and executors.
• Pre-Death Agreements: We provide advice and representation on the enforceability of agreements made before the decedent’s passing, which concern the distribution of the estate.
• Professional Negligence: If you have suffered a loss due to a professional’s negligence during the drafting of a will or the administration of an estate, we can assist you in seeking redress.
• Challenging a Lifetime Gift: Our legal team can help challenge gifts made during a person’s lifetime that may have been affected by undue influence or a lack of capacity.
• Financial Abuse: We specialise in cases of financial abuse, particularly involving vulnerable individuals, ensuring that justice is served and assets are recovered.
• Statutory Will Disputes: We represent parties in disputes over statutory wills, which the Court of Protection makes on behalf of those who lack the capacity to make a will themselves.
• Defending a Contested Will: Our solicitors also defend executors and beneficiaries in contested will cases, ensuring that the decedent’s wishes are upheld and legal standards are met.

Contact Us

If you are facing a Will, trust, or estate dispute and require expert legal assistance, Bennett Griffin is here to help.

Our experienced team of solicitors based in West Sussex is committed to providing you with the professional support and guidance you need during this challenging time.

With offices in Chichester and Worthing, we’re conveniently located to support individuals and businesses across the county.

Call us on 01903 229999 or 01243 256370.

Alternatively, you can email info@bennett-griffin.co.uk, and a member of our team will reply to you shortly.

Further Reading

• What Makes a Will Invalid?
• Inheritance Act Claims: How to Challenge a Will Fairly
• Inheritance Act Claims vs Will Validity Claims
• What Happens if an Executor Does Not Follow the Will?
• What Is Undue Influence In A Will?
• What Is a Letter of Wishes?
• What Are The Duties Of An Executor?
• Caveat and Probate
• Is There a Time Limit on Probate Disputes?
• Who Pays Costs in Probate Disputes?

Wills, Trusts & Estate Disputes FAQs

What is a Will contest?

A Will contest is a legal challenge to the validity of a Will, typically based on concerns over the deceased’s capacity, undue influence, or the proper execution of the Will.

Can I challenge a Will based on unfair distribution?

Yes, if you believe that a Will does not make reasonable provision for you, particularly if you were financially dependent on the deceased, you may be able to make a claim under the Inheritance Act 1975 provided that you fall into one of the protected categories under the Act.

How long do I have to contest a Will?

Generally, claims under the Inheritance Act must be made within six months from the date probate is granted. However, other types of challenges, such as those for undue influence and capacity issues, may have different time limits.

What evidence is needed to challenge a trust?

Challenging a trust often requires evidence related to the intention of the settlor, the administration of the trust, and any potential breaches of duty by trustees. It is critical to consult with a solicitor to understand the specifics of your case.

Can a professional negligence claim be made against a solicitor who drafted a Will?

Yes, if a solicitor’s negligence in drafting or advising on a Will led to losses or disputes, a claim can be made against them for professional negligence.