Inheritance_Disputes

Inheritance Disputes Solicitors

Contesting Wills, Probate Disputes & Inheritance Claims – NJS Law

When a loved one dies, disputes over their will or estate can be emotionally draining and legally complex.

At NJS Law, we specialise in resolving inheritance and probate disputes with a firm, strategic approach — while providing the sensitivity these situations demand. 

Whether you are contesting a will, challenging how an estate is being handled, or seeking fair financial provision, our expert solicitors are here to protect your rights and help achieve a fair outcome.

We are here to help.  We can get it sorted.  It’s what we do. Call us.

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Specialist Inheritance Dispute Solicitors

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What Is an Inheritance Dispute?

An inheritance dispute is a conflict that arises after someone dies, usually because family members or beneficiaries disagree about the will, the distribution of assets, or the way the estate is being handled.

These disputes can be emotional and complex, and often require specialist legal advice to resolve.

Types of Inheritance Dispute Claims Our Solicitors Handle

Inheritance Act Claims allow eligible family members and dependants to seek reasonable financial provision if they have been left out of a will or not adequately provided for.

Defending Inheritance Claims involves protecting an estate or beneficiary’s entitlement when someone challenges a will or seeks additional provision.

Will Validity Disputes involve challenging or defending whether a will is legally valid, properly executed and reflects the true intentions of the deceased.

Contesting a Will involves legally challenging a will when you believe it is invalid or does not reflect the true intentions of the person who died.

Contentious Probate refers to disputes arising during the administration of an estate, including disagreements over the will, executors or distribution of assets.

Estate Administration Disputes arise when there are disagreements over how an estate is being managed or distributed by executors or administrators.

Executor Disputes involve conflicts over how an executor is managing an estate, including concerns about delays, transparency or improper decision-making.

Deathbed Gifts refer to gifts made by someone in their final moments of life, which can be challenged if there are doubts about intention, capacity or validity.

No Contest Clauses are provisions in a will that attempt to deter beneficiaries from challenging it by threatening to reduce or remove their inheritance if they do.

What Our Customers Say

Rated 5 out of 5
Daniel
First class service and customer care I cannot recommend Alex Gemmell highly enough. After my father passed away the executors of his Will failed to perform there duties and Alex supported me all the way through a very stressful experience removing the executors with a High Court order and replacing them with a professional and well respected solicitor. I will always be grateful for Alex; he turned a difficult situation around with his knowledge and dedicated professionalism.
Veronica
Thank you Stephen Lawson and Kay Clarke for all your support in our Contentious Probate matter. They both worked tirelessly for our family, getting the outcome duly deserved what felt like a mountain we were climbing they turned around. An year long case made easy knowing they had our backs and any questions we had they could answer no matter how small it seemed. We look forward to moving on as a family into 2024 knowing justice is served. Thank you so much.
Jo
I have received your letter and would just like to thank you for your input. We would never of got the outcome we did if it wasn't for you in believing in me to ask for the £100,000 thank you from the bottom of my heart. I feel I can now move forward with my life and put this whole ordeal behind me. Thank You
Rebecca
I would highly recommend this company! A**** From the moment Mr Lawson took on our case, he kept our family up to date with any outcome from our case which has now been resolved. With his hard work really did pay off. I personally can’t thank him enough! He really does know what he is talking about, it really made everything so less stressful. Thank you again. Rebecca
Veronica
We thank Stephen & Kay for all your hard work and support in the case. Without both of you we'd never of got to this point and we're so pleased this case is now resolved. I'm sure Mum & Dad would of been pleased to know that we did the right thing and won. .

Inheritance Disputes Claim Guides & Expert Tips

Explore our latest guides and expert insights on inheritance disputes. Learn what can make a will invalid, who may be entitled to challenge it, and how to strengthen your case.

Find Out if You’re Eligible to Make
an Inheritance Dispute Claim

Complete the form below or contact us directly. Our solicitors will review your situation and confirm your eligibility in a free consultation.

Who We Act For

We regularly advise:

  • Beneficiaries who believe they have not received what they are entitled to.
  • Individuals left out of a will or not adequately provided for.
  • Spouses, civil partners and cohabiting partners seeking fair provision.
  • Children and step-children (including adult children) who have been excluded or treated unfairly.
  • Executors and administrators facing challenges from beneficiaries or third parties.
  • Trustees involved in disputes about the management of trust assets.
  •  
Are Stepchildren Entitled to Contest Their Parent’s Will?

How NJS Law Can Support You Through Your Inheritance Dispute

Our inheritance disputes specialists act for clients across the UK on a wide range of estate and inheritance disputes:

✅ Challenging the validity of a will

✅ Defending claims brought against an estate

✅ Inheritance Act claims

✅ Executor and trustee disputes

✅ Claims involving undue influence or capacity issues

✅ Removing executors for misconduct

✅ Beneficiary disputes

✅ Mediation and negotiated settlements

Contentious Probate

We focus on early resolution wherever possible, reducing stress and cost while protecting your position.

Why Instruct Our Inheritance Dispute Solicitors?

✅ Specialist contentious probate expertise – We deal with inheritance disputes regularly and understand both the law and the family dynamics involved.

✅ Clear, practical advice – We explain where you stand, what your options are, and the likely costs and timescales in plain English.

✅ Focus on early resolution – Wherever possible we use negotiation and mediation to resolve disputes quickly and cost-effectively.

✅ Robust representation when needed – If court proceedings are necessary, we will prepare your case thoroughly and fight your corner.

✅ Sensitive, client-focused approach – We understand these disputes are often about more than money. We balance the legal, financial and emotional aspects of your case.

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Our Approach to Inheritance Disputes

1. Free, No-Obligation Assessment

We assess the strength of your case and explain your options in plain, transparent language.

2. Evidence and Investigation

We gather relevant evidence—medical records, witness statements, earlier wills and financial information.

3. Negotiation & Mediation First

Many disputes can be resolved without court action. We aim to reach an agreement swiftly and amicably.

4. Strong Representation Where Needed

If litigation becomes necessary, our experienced solicitors will represent you with clarity, determination and care.

Speak to Our Inheritance Disputes Solicitors Today - Free Consultation -

Our experienced Inheritance Dispute Solicitors are here to guide you every step of the way. With specialist expertise in contentious probate and inheritance disputes, we provide clear, strategic legal representation to protect your rights and secure a fair outcome.

Contact NJS Law today to discuss your will dispute with a specialist solicitor. Call or email us now to get expert advice and begin your case.

Time Limits for Inheritance Disputes

Different claims carry strict deadlines:

  • Inheritance Act claims: usually within 6 months of probate

  • Will validity challenges: ideally made before probate is granted

  • Executor disputes: no fixed time limit, but early action helps protect the estate

If you’re unsure about timing, contact us as soon as possible—delays may affect your rights.

Latest Inheritance Dispute Claim News & Case Updates

Stay up to date with the latest news on will disputes claims. Our blog shares real client case results, recent compensation awards, and guidance from our solicitors to help you understand how the claims process works in practice.

What occurs when an executor does not follow the will

What Occurs When An Executor Does Not Follow The Will?

As the person appointed by a testator to with carrying out the wishes outlined in a will, an executor plays a pivotal role in the administration of an estate. However, if an executor fails to adhere to the instructions laid out in the will, it can lead to confusion, frustration, and legal complications.

Read More »
What is the best way to resolve a will dispute

What Is The Best Way To Resolve A Will Dispute?

Dealing with a dispute over a loved one’s will can be emotionally challenging and legally complex. However, understanding the available options for resolution can help you navigate this difficult situation with clarity and confidence.

Read More »
Can I Remove An Executor Of A Will

Can I Remove An Executor Of A Will?

Probate disputes can swiftly erupt in cases where an Executor has a conflict of interest, is not progressing Probate, and/or keeping secrets regarding the whereabouts of certain assets (and these are merely a few examples).

Read More »

Common Questions About Inheritance Disputes Claims

How long does a will dispute usually take?

The timeframe varies depending on the complexity of the case and whether negotiation or court proceedings are needed.

Many disputes are resolved within a few months, while more complex cases may take longer. Early legal advice can help speed up the process.

Not necessarily. Most will disputes are settled through negotiation or mediation. Court is typically a last resort and only used when agreement cannot be reached.

You may have grounds if you believe the will is invalid, you were financially dependent on the deceased, or you’ve been unfairly left out. Our solicitors can assess your situation during a free initial consultation.

Yes. NJS Law can place a caveat to temporarily prevent probate from being issued.

In some cases it is possible to enter a caveat or apply for an injunction to prevent the grant of probate or the distribution of estate assets while the dispute is resolved. We can advise you on whether this is appropriate.

Most people are unsure at first—our free assessment helps you understand your position without pressure.

Evidence may include medical records, previous wills, witness statements, financial documents, or proof of undue influence.

NJS Law will help identify and gather the evidence needed to support your case.

Yes. If an executor is acting improperly, causing undue delays, or failing to administer the estate correctly, the court can remove or replace them.

In some cases, the court may allow late claims, but this is not guaranteed. It’s essential to seek immediate legal advice if you’re concerned about deadlines.

Yes, but it may be more complicated. Some claims, like Inheritance Act claims, have strict time limits, while validity challenges may still proceed. Early action always strengthens your position.

Disputes can be sensitive, but mediation and negotiation can help resolve matters without escalating conflict. NJS Law focuses on achieving fair outcomes while minimising stress and family tension.

If someone dies without a valid will, their estate is distributed under intestacy rules. You may still be able to challenge how the estate is divided, depending on your relationship and dependency.

Yes. A will’s age does not prevent it from being challenged. The key question is whether it was valid when created and whether current circumstances justify a claim.

Stepchildren may have rights under the Inheritance Act if they were financially dependent on the deceased. They may also have grounds if named in a previous will.

Costs vary depending on the complexity of the case. NJS Law offers clear, transparent pricing and may be able to provide fixed fees or no-win, no-fee funding for suitable cases.

Ask NJS Law

For your probate and related legal issues, simply ask NJS

Will FAQs

For any questions we may be able to answer, discover our FAQs section.

Adele Whittle

Solicitor - Head of Property & Estates

Adele is a qualified solicitor with over 20 years experience working in the legal sector, predominantly within Litigation.

Adele is the member of the management team responsible for the firms strategy, including the growth of a number of key areas of legal practice, heading up the Housing Disrepair and Probate Teams. She also has a keen interest in technology, in particular automation, and will be working on optimising the firm’s processes.

In her spare time Adele enjoys walking the family cockapoo, watching her son play sport, travelling to new places and is obsessed with all things interiors!