Since we have both qualified, our respective areas of law have both seen a real increase in the number of contested estates or disputed Wills.

Whether this be down to an increase in blended families, people finding themselves under increased financial strain or no longer having the option to air their issues with each other in the public domain (such as one rather famous regal family) – whatever the reason, these type of claims are here to stay.

In all seriousness, the death of a loved one is always traumatic and whether you are seeking to exclude family members or you find yourself in a position that insufficient financial provision is made for you under their will, it can sometimes be difficult to know where to turn.

Unfortunately, in our respective practises we all too often see clients affected by unforeseen or unexpected circumstances surrounding estate planning and death. Those issues have included disinherited children due to a will being invalidated by a marriage and long term partners not included in a will prepared many years before the relationship was established.

Over the next few weeks, we will be seeking to offer a number of resources looking at a number of the topics and issues you might wish to consider. Whether that be looking at the pitfalls of Will drafting, excluding a beneficiaries, defending against or bringing a claim, we (Gregory John and Aaron Pottle) will be looking to prepare blogs, answering your most common questions via an online Q&A and will even be offering a Problem Probate drop in over the next 8 weeks out of our Braintree Office.

We hope to highlight some of the issues faced by various parties involved in the estate planning and probate process and offer some insight into ways disputes might be prevented or resolved.

Between us, we have a depth of experience, working sensitively with both new and existing clients – whether seeking to exclude family members from their Will or to resolve claims on the best terms possible. You might not be able to write your own memoir airing your issues, but the team here at FJG are a more than able substitute.

Our new Problem Probate Drop In will be commencing from Thursday 19 January 2023. Over the next 8 weeks Aaron Pottle and Gregory John will be offering free no obligation 15 minute consultations in our Braintree office on a Thursday morning between 10am and 1pm while also offering online Q&A’s, so keep an eye on our socials as well.

 

 

 

Gregory John and Aaron Pottle