Contesting a will solicitors, London – will dispute
Explore how we can help you with any legal requirements connected to a private wealth dispute.
Contact our teamAt Moore Barlow our team of skilled solicitors understands the complexities and sensitivities surrounding will disputes.
Contesting a will can be a challenging and emotionally charged process, but our experienced lawyers are here to provide you with the guidance and support you need.
We have a proven track record of success in resolving will disputes, ensuring that our clients’ rights are protected and their wishes are properly represented. We understand that every case is unique, which is why we take a tailored approach to each individual situation. Our dedicated team will work closely with you to gather evidence, assess the validity of the will, and explore all available legal avenues to achieve a fair and just outcome.
While financial compensation may play a significant role in will disputes, we believe that the resolution goes beyond monetary value. Our solicitors strive to ensure that you have access to the necessary support and resources to aid in your recovery.
If you find yourself in a situation where you need to contest a will, trust the experienced team at Moore Barlow to provide you with expert legal advice and representation. We are committed to helping you navigate the complexities of will disputes and protecting your rights, ensuring that your loved one’s final wishes are respected. Contact us today to discuss your case and take the first step towards a fair resolution.
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. It can be done on grounds such as lack of mental capacity, undue influence, fraud, or improper execution. The purpose is to seek a revision or invalidation of the will to ensure a fair distribution of the deceased’s assets.

Understanding the grounds for Contesting a Will
There are several legally recognised reasons to challenge a will. These include mental incapacity, where the person making the will (the testator) did not understand what they were signing, or lack of due execution, meaning the will was not signed and witnessed correctly in accordance with the Wills Act 1837. Other common grounds are undue influence, where a third party coerced the testator into making specific provisions, and fraud or forgery. Understanding the legal basis for a claim is crucial to building a strong case, and our solicitors are experienced in navigating these complex legal principles to protect your rights.
Typical outcomes of will disputes
The outcome of a will dispute can vary significantly depending on the circumstances. Common resolutions include financial settlements between parties, the removal or substitution of an executor, or court-ordered redistribution of the estate in line with a previous will or rules of intestacy. In many cases, early intervention through mediation can lead to an agreement without the need for a trial. Our solicitors advocate for outcomes that preserve family relationships where possible while ensuring that our clients’ legal and financial interests are secured.
Costs and funding options
We understand that legal costs can be a concern when contesting a will. We offer a range of funding options, including fixed fees for initial advice and the possibility of no win, no fee arrangements in appropriate cases. We will provide a clear cost estimate at the outset and keep you informed throughout the process so that you can make informed decisions about your case. Our transparent approach means that there are no hidden costs, and financial certainty is maintained.
Why choose us?
At Moore Barlow we understand that contesting a will can be a complex and emotional process. Our team of dedicated solicitors in London specialise in will disputes, offering expert advice and guidance to ensure your interests are protected. With our extensive knowledge and experience in this area of law, we are committed to achieving the best possible outcome for our clients. Trust us to provide diligent and personalised representation, giving you peace of mind during this challenging time. Contact us today to discuss your case.
Our team is recognised with Law Society accreditation in Wills and Inheritance Quality, highlighting our specialist expertise in contentious probate matters. We are also ranked in the Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners for private client services, which reflects our capability and trusted reputation in this complex area of law. Our London-based team has a robust understanding of the regional courts and an extensive network of expert witnesses and forensic accountants, enabling us to build strong cases for our clients. Unlike many firms, we also offer conflict resolution strategies through alternative dispute resolution methods such as arbitration and collaborative law, providing a cost-effective and faster route to resolution.
How can we help?
Our team of experienced solicitors in London specialises in assisting clients with contesting a will and resolving will disputes. We understand the emotional and complex nature of such cases and strive to provide compassionate and knowledgeable legal advice. Our expertise covers a wide range of issues related to will disputes, including challenging the validity of a will, claims for inadequate financial provision, disputes over asset distribution, and contesting the appointment of executors. With our meticulous approach and dedication to achieving the best possible outcomes for our clients, we are here to guide you through the legal process and protect your interests.
We provide comprehensive legal services that cover all dimensions of will disputes. These include applications to remove or substitute executors, claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975, disputes over the validity of a will due to lack of capacity, undue influence or forgery, and advising on trust disputes arising from the administration of estates. Our team can also support you through court litigation, mediation, and negotiation processes, while offering advice on tax implications and estate planning where relevant. We tailor our approach to suit both straightforward and highly complex disputes, ensuring that your legal strategy aligns with your personal and financial goals.
Our team of private wealth disputes solicitors
Who we help
Our experienced solicitors in London specialise in contesting wills and handling will disputes. We assist clients who are beneficiaries, executors, or family members seeking legal resolution in matters related to contested wills and estates.
We assist a wide range of clients, including beneficiaries, executors, trustees, charities, and financial institutions. Our clients span various sectors such as finance, real estate, creative industries, and family-owned businesses, where complex family dynamics and high-value estates often contribute to contentious probate situations. We also work with high-net-worth individuals dealing with cross-border assets and international wills, and provide specialist support for vulnerable clients or those facing undue influence, including elderly or disabled individuals and their families who require sensitive and expert handling.
Contact us
Contact our experienced team of will dispute solicitors in London to contest a will. We are dedicated to providing tailored legal solutions to protect your interests. Call us today for a free consultation or fill out the contact form below and we will get back to you promptly.
We have offices in London, Richmond, Southampton, Guildford, Lymington and Woking and offer specialist will disputes legal services to clients nationwide.
Contact our private wealth disputes team
Frequently asked questions: Contesting a Will
Can I contest a will after probate has been granted?
Yes, it is still possible to contest a will after probate has been granted. However, it becomes more complex as the estate may already be partially or fully distributed. It is important to act quickly and seek legal advice without delay to assess the viability of your case.
What are the time limits for contesting a will?
The time limits vary depending on the grounds of your claim. For example, claims under the Inheritance Act must generally be made within six months of the date of the grant of probate. Other claims, such as those concerning fraud, may not have a strict time limit but can be more challenging to pursue the longer you wait.
Who can legally contest a will?
Generally, individuals who were financially dependent on the deceased, beneficiaries named in the current or previous wills, or people who would inherit under intestacy laws if no valid will exists may be eligible to contest a will. Legal standing varies depending on the type of claim you wish to pursue.
What evidence is needed to contest a will?
Evidence depends on your grounds for contesting. It may include medical records to prove lack of mental capacity, witness statements, handwriting analysis, or financial documents showing dependency. Your solicitor will help gather and assess the relevant documents to support your claim.
What happens if a will is successfully contested?
If a will is deemed invalid, the court may either uphold an earlier valid will or apply the rules of intestacy if no earlier will exists. The estate will then be distributed accordingly. In some cases, a settlement may be reached between the parties involved, avoiding the need for a court decision.