Contentious Probate Solicitors in Clacton-on-Sea

What is contentious probate?

Contentious probate is a wide-ranging area of law that covers any dispute arising from the administration of an estate. Each case is unique, with different circumstances, relationships, and legal issues coming into play; you may be pursuing a claim or facing a claim from another dependent. Over the years, our team has successfully handled a broad range of probate cases, including:

• Will disputes – supporting you if you believe your loved one’s Will may not be valid (e.g. if they were pressured into making decisions, if there are doubts about whether they properly understood the Will’s contents and effects or if you have concerns over potential fraud or errors in how the Will was prepared and signed).
• Claims against an estate – if you believe you have been unfairly excluded or inadequately provided for in your relative’s Will, we can offer specialist guidance; this includes claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975.
• Executor or trustee misconduct – expertly handling issues related to executor or trustee misconduct (e.g. asset mismanagement, fraud, conflicts of interest, etc.).
• Estate administration disputes – tackling administration-related conflicts, ensuring all matters are handled fairly and legally.

What is involved in the contentious probate process?

All contentious probate cases start with a consultation. We take this time to learn the details of your circumstances, assess the validity of your claim and advise you on your options. If you choose to proceed, our team will then begin the process of gathering evidence to corroborate your claim, using this information as we work towards a fair outcome.

One way we do this is through mediation, which provides a neutral, supervised space to discuss the matter in the hopes of reaching an agreement. Mediation helps to save time and money while minimising conflict and protecting your relationships with your family members. In our experience, many cases can be successfully resolved at this stage; if this isn’t the case for you, we’ll then need to progress to court, where our team will support you every step of the way.

Why choose us?

Nobody relishes the prospect of taking legal action, especially when family is involved. At Fisher Jones Greenwood, we appreciate how challenging this time can be for you, and we’re committed to making it as simple and stress-free as possible. Our team of contentious probate solicitors in Clacton-on-Sea have fine-tuned the litigation process and always ensure open communication, managing your expectations and maintaining clear language and transparency from start to finish.

Our goal is to give you one less thing to worry about in this emotionally fraught time, acting proactively, strategically and tactfully as we fight to safeguard your rights. With recognition from both The Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners, we have the skill required to resolve probate cases of all kinds and complexities.