Contentious probate solicitors, Guildford
Explore how we can help you with any legal requirements connected to a private wealth dispute.
Contact our teamAt Moore Barlow our team of expert solicitors is dedicated to providing comprehensive legal support for matters relating to contentious probate.
We understand that this can be a challenging time for you and your family, and we are here to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
With our extensive knowledge and experience in probate law, we are well-equipped to handle a wide range of disputes that may arise during the probate process. Whether you are contesting a will, disputing the distribution of assets, or facing any other probate-related issue, our solicitors will work tirelessly to protect your interests and achieve a fair resolution.
We recognise that compensation is not the sole focus in contentious probate cases. Alongside our legal expertise, we also offer compassionate guidance and support to ensure that you have access to the necessary resources for a brighter future. Our team aim to provide you with the best possible outcome during this challenging time.
Contact Moore Barlow today for expert advice and guidance from our specialist contentious probate solicitors in Guildford. We are committed to helping you navigate through the complexities of contentious probate, ensuring that your rights are protected and your interests are represented diligently.
What is contentious probate?
Contentious probate refers to disputes or litigation related to the distribution of a deceased person’s assets and estate. These disputes can arise due to challenges to the validity of a will, claims of undue influence, or disagreements among beneficiaries.
Why choose us?
Choose Moore Barlow as your trusted contentious probate solicitors in Guildford. With our extensive experience and expertise in probate disputes, we are committed to providing tailored solutions to meet your unique needs. Our dedicated team of solicitors will guide you through the intricate legal process, ensuring your interests are protected every step of the way. Rest assured that we will strive to achieve the best possible outcome for you, while providing exceptional client service. Contact Moore Barlow today to discuss your contentious probate concerns.
Moore Barlow is accredited by The Law Society for Wills and Inheritance Quality (WIQS), demonstrating our commitment to high standards in dealing with private wealth disputes and contentious probate matters. Our team includes members of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP), a global professional body for practitioners specialising in family inheritance and succession planning. These accreditations ensure we adhere to the highest industry benchmarks, especially critical in resolving sensitive and complex probate disputes. In addition, we offer a bespoke service tailored to the unique circumstances of every case, ensuring personalised legal strategies that reflect each client’s priorities. Our longstanding presence in Surrey and the South East means we have deep-rooted local knowledge and established relationships with regional courts and institutions, which benefits our clients in contentious matters.
How can we help?
Our experienced team of contentious probate solicitors in Guildford is dedicated to offering expert advice and representation in all matters related to contested wills, inheritance disputes, and estate administration conflicts. We understand the emotional and complex nature of these cases and are committed to providing personalised solutions that meet the unique needs of our clients. From will validity disputes to claims under the Inheritance Act 1975, we have the knowledge and expertise to guide you through the legal process with confidence. Trust our solicitors to protect your rights and interests, and to achieve a fair and satisfactory resolution to your probate dispute.
Our team can assist with a diverse range of contentious probate issues, including but not limited to challenging or defending the validity of a will, Inheritance Act claims, executor disputes, removal of personal representatives, claims involving undue influence or lack of mental capacity, and disputes arising from intestacy. We also support clients with urgent court applications such as caveats and injunctions to protect estate assets. For high-net-worth estates, we provide strategic legal planning that involves liaising with tax advisors, financial planners, and forensic accountants to ensure all angles of the dispute are addressed effectively. Our litigation services cover both court-based proceedings and alternative dispute resolution methods such as mediation, where we often achieve quicker, cost-effective outcomes.
Our team of private wealth disputes solicitors
Costs involved in contentious probate
One of the most common concerns in contentious probate is the cost of litigation. At Moore Barlow, we offer transparent fee structures and, in appropriate cases, explore options including deferred payment agreements or third-party litigation funding. We also conduct cost-benefit assessments early in the process, to ensure clients make informed decisions about proceeding with their case. This client-focused approach helps reduce uncertainty and financial stress during what is often an emotionally challenging time.
Who we help
Our experienced contentious probate solicitors in Guildford work with individuals and families who are facing disputes over wills, estates, and inheritance matters. We provide expert legal advice and representation to ensure our clients’ rights and interests are protected during these challenging times.
We regularly act for a wide range of clients including private individuals, business owners, landowners, trustees, and executors involved in estate disputes. Our clients come from across sectors such as property development, agriculture, finance, and family-run businesses, where succession planning and inheritance matters often lead to complex disputes. For example, we assist farming families in resolving inheritance conflicts involving agricultural property relief, and advise entrepreneurs on probate issues arising from shareholdings and business assets. We also work with charities who have been named as beneficiaries in disputed wills, supporting them in protecting their reputational and financial interests.
Contact us
Contact our experienced contentious probate solicitors in Guildford today for expert advice on all matters relating to will disputes, inheritance claims, and estate administration. We are dedicated to providing exceptional legal services tailored to your individual needs. Call us now for a free initial consultation or fill out the contact form below.
We have offices in London, Richmond, Southampton, Guildford, Lymington and Woking and offer specialist contentious probate legal services to clients nationwide.
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Frequently asked questions – Contentious Probate
Who can contest a will?
Individuals who may be eligible to contest a will include beneficiaries named in the will, those expecting to inherit under intestacy rules, or persons who were financially dependent on the deceased. The specific eligibility depends on the grounds for the challenge and legal entitlements under the Inheritance Act 1975.
What are the grounds for contesting a will?
Common grounds include lack of testamentary capacity, undue influence, lack of proper formalities, fraudulent wills, and forgery. In some cases, a will may be contested if it fails to provide reasonable financial provision for dependants under the Inheritance Act.
Is there a time limit for bringing a contentious probate claim?
Yes, the time limit depends on the nature of the claim. Inheritance Act claims must generally be brought within six months of the Grant of Probate being issued. Other types of claims, such as those involving fraud, may have longer or no fixed limitation period. It’s advisable to seek legal advice as soon as possible.
Can contentious probate disputes be resolved out of court?
Yes, many probate disputes are resolved through alternative dispute resolution methods like mediation. These routes can be quicker, more private, and cost-effective compared to court proceedings.
Will I have to go to court if I contest a will?
Not necessarily. While some contentious probate matters require court intervention, many are resolved through negotiation or mediation. Court proceedings are usually a last resort if other resolution attempts fail.
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