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Contentious Probate Solicitors in Stoke-on-Trent
Inheritance disputes are often stressful, especially when families are grieving and emotions are running high. If you are looking for contentious probate solicitors in Stoke, our team can help you get clarity on your rights, and your next steps.
We advise clients across Stoke-on-Trent and the surrounding areas on contentious probate matters, including complex inheritance disputes involving wills, trusts, executors and estate administration. We focus on practical, solution-led advice and a clear strategy from day one.
How We Help You
Our contentious probate solicitors in Stoke advise on a wide range of inheritance disputes, specialising in the following areas:
- Claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family & Dependants) Act 1975 - If a will (or intestacy) does not make reasonable financial provision, we can advise on eligibility, evidence and the best route to progress a claim.
- Disputes over the validity of Wills - Where there are concerns about capacity, undue influence, knowledge and approval, or how a will was signed and witnessed, we can guide you through challenging a will and protecting your position.
- Claims for Proprietary Estoppel - If you relied on assurances about property or inheritance and acted to your detriment, we can assess whether proprietary estoppel applies and what remedies may be available.
- Claims under the Trusts of Land and Appointment of Trustees Act 1996 - We advise on disputes involving beneficial interests in property, including disagreements about contributions, occupation and what should happen to jointly owned property.
- Disputes between Executors, or Breach of Trust - If executors are in conflict, the administration has stalled, or you’re concerned about how assets are being handled, we can advise on practical steps and, where necessary, formal action to protect beneficiaries and the estate.
Who We Act For
We act for executors, beneficiaries and trustees, as well as attorneys and deputies where estate and trust issues overlap with vulnerability or capacity concerns. If a claim involves a minor or a vulnerable adult, we can also advise on the appropriate representation arrangements and the practical steps needed to progress matters correctly.
Specialist Credentials
Victoria Townsend is a fully registered member of ACTAPS (The Association of Contentious Trusts & Probate Specialists) and part of ConTrA (the Contentious Trusts Association). Victoria is also a Dementia Friend Champion, which can be relevant in matters where capacity and vulnerability issues arise.
Alison Neate is an Accredited Commercial Mediator (ADR Group), supporting a constructive and proportionate approach where mediation is appropriate.
FAQs
How long will my case take?
Timescales vary depending on the complexity of the estate and the issues in dispute, as well as whether a settlement can be reached. Many contentious probate matters resolve through negotiation or mediation, but court proceedings can take longer. We’ll give you realistic guidance once we understand the situation.
Can I stop probate from being issued?
In some situations, yes. A ‘caveat’ can be entered to prevent a grant being issued temporarily while concerns are investigated. If you need urgent help, our contentious probate solicitors can advise on whether this is appropriate and what it achieves.
What is probate?
Probate is the legal authority to deal with someone’s estate after they die. If there’s a will, this usually involves a Grant of Probate. If there isn’t, it may involve Letters of Administration.
Problems often arise where there are disputes about the will or the administration of the estate, that’s where contentious probate advice can help.
Can I challenge the will?
Potentially, yes. Common grounds include lack of capacity, undue influence, fraud, or issues with execution (signing and witnessing). Our Stoke contentious probate solicitors can assess the evidence, explain prospects, and advise on the best next step for challenging a will.
