Contesting a will solicitors, Guildford – will dispute
Explore how we can help you with any legal requirements connected to a private wealth dispute.
Contact our teamAt Moore Barlow we understand that contesting a will can be a difficult and emotional process. Our specialist solicitors in Guildford are here to provide you with the expert guidance and support you need during this challenging time.
With our extensive experience in will disputes, we have helped numerous clients navigate the complex legal requirements involved in challenging a will. Our dedicated team will work closely with you to understand the unique circumstances surrounding your case, providing tailored advice and representation to ensure your interests are protected. We recognise that contesting a will can involve delicate family dynamics, and we approach each case with sensitivity and empathy.
Our goal is to achieve a fair resolution, whether through negotiation, mediation, or litigation, depending on the specific circumstances of your situation. We strive to ensure that your loved one’s wishes are respected, and that you receive the inheritance you are entitled to. Rest assured that our solicitors will collaborate closely with you throughout the entire process, keeping you informed and involved at every step.
Contact our contesting a will solicitors in Guildford today to schedule a consultation and discuss your case in confidence. We are committed to fighting for your rights and helping you achieve a satisfactory outcome in your will dispute.
What is contesting a will?
Contesting a will refers to the legal process of challenging the validity or terms of a deceased person’s will. This can be done if there are concerns about the testator’s capacity, undue influence, fraud, or errors in the document.
Why choose us?
At Moore Barlow our experienced team of solicitors in Guildford specialises in contentious probate matters, including contesting wills. With a deep understanding of the intricacies of will disputes, we are dedicated to providing effective and tailored legal solutions to our clients. Our approach is centred on achieving the best possible outcome, whether through negotiation or litigation. Trust our expertise and reputation for excellence in handling will disputes, and let us guide you through the process with professionalism and empathy.
Moore Barlow is proud to hold specialist accreditations relevant to private client and contentious probate law, including membership in STEP (Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners), reflecting our expertise in handling complex will disputes and trust litigation. Our team includes Legal 500 and Chambers ranked solicitors who are regularly recognised as leaders in private wealth disputes. We also have accredited mediators, enabling us to offer alternative dispute resolution services that may avoid the stress and cost of court proceedings. Unlike many firms, we bring together deep regional knowledge with national strength, providing tailored, localised advice with the backing of firm-wide expertise in contentious probate.
How can we help?
At our law firm, our dedicated team of solicitors specialises in contesting wills and handling will disputes. We understand the sensitive nature of these cases and the emotional toll they can take on our clients. Our experienced solicitors in Guildford have successfully represented individuals facing various issues related to contested wills, such as undue influence, lack of mental capacity, fraud, or improper execution. We are committed to providing personalised and strategic legal advice, guiding our clients through the complexities of the legal process, and striving to achieve the best possible outcome. Trust us to handle your will dispute with professionalism and empathy.
Our team can assist with a wide range of will dispute matters, including Inheritance Act claims, disputes over testamentary capacity, undue influence claims, and complex issues involving trust administration or executor misconduct. We also support clients with strategic advice from initial concerns through to litigation if necessary. Whether it’s contesting or defending a will, rectifying drafting errors, or managing disputes between beneficiaries and executors, we provide clear, compassionate advice throughout the process.
Our team of private wealth disputes solicitors
Time limits and legal deadlines for contesting a will
Understanding the legal time limits is crucial. Different types of claims have different deadlines – for example, an Inheritance Act claim must be made within six months of the grant of probate. Fraud or forgery claims may not have a strict time limit but should still be acted upon promptly. We provide immediate advice on your eligibility to challenge a will and ensure that no critical date is missed.
Alternative resolution methods
Litigation is not the only route when challenging a will. We offer expertise in mediation and collaborative law, helping families reach negotiated settlements that preserve relationships and avoid lengthy court battles. Our team includes certified mediators and experienced negotiators who can represent your interests in these alternative forums.
Local knowledge in Guildford and the South East
With a strong presence in Guildford and Surrey, we understand the nuanced dynamics of regional estates, rural landholdings, and local inheritance customs. Our connections with financial advisers, tax experts, and estate valuation professionals in the region allow us to offer a rounded service tailored to your specific situation.
Who we help
Our expert solicitors in Guildford specialise in handling will disputes, providing guidance and representation to individuals who wish to contest a will. We assist beneficiaries, executors, and potential claimants in resolving issues related to inheritance and estate matters.
We advise a diverse range of clients, including high-net-worth individuals, trustees, executors, charities, and business owners. Many of our clients come from sectors where complex inheritance issues often arise, such as agriculture, family-owned enterprises, and property development. We also support professionals acting as executors or beneficiaries in multi-jurisdictional estates. Our team understands the sensitivities unique to private wealth conflicts within close-knit families and helps clients navigate not only legal complexities, but also the emotional aspects of disputes.
Contact us
Contact our experienced will dispute solicitors in Guildford today to contest a will. We understand the sensitive nature of these cases and provide personalised legal guidance to achieve the best outcome for you. Call us for a confidential consultation or fill out the form below to schedule an appointment.
We have offices in London, Richmond, Southampton, Guildford, Lymington and Woking and offer specialist will disputes legal services to clients nationwide.
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Frequently asked questions
Can I contest a will after probate has been granted?
Yes, it is still possible to contest a will after probate has been granted, although acting quickly is essential. Time limits apply depending on the grounds for contesting. For example, claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975 typically must be brought within six months of the grant of probate.
What are the valid legal reasons to contest a will?
Common grounds include lack of mental capacity, undue influence, fraud, improper execution of the will, and lack of knowledge or approval. Each case is judged on its own facts, and strong evidence is required to be successful.
What does it cost to contest a will?
The cost can vary widely depending on the complexity of the dispute and whether the matter goes to court. In some cases, it’s possible to fund a claim through conditional fee agreements (no win, no fee) or third-party litigation funding. We’ll always provide transparency on costs from the outset.
How long does the process take?
Simple cases may be resolved in a few months, while more complex disputes or those that go to court can take a year or more to conclude. We seek to resolve disputes efficiently through negotiation or alternative dispute resolution where possible.
What happens if a will is declared invalid?
If a will is found to be invalid, the estate is usually administered according to the most recent previous valid will. If no other will exists, the estate will be distributed under the rules of intestacy. This can significantly alter who inherits from the estate.
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