When disputes arise over a loved one's estate, our contentious probate solicitors in Bromley, London, Surrey and Sevenoaks provide expert legal support to resolve inheritance conflicts. Whether you're challenging a will, defending an estate against claims, dealing with executor disputes, or an Inheritance Act claim, our experienced team combines technical expertise with sensitivity to navigate these difficult family situations.
make an enquiryContentious probate covers any dispute that arises during the administration of someone’s estate after they’ve died. These disputes can be emotionally challenging and legally complex, often occurring between family members or beneficiaries.
Common contentious probate matters include challenging the validity of a will, disputes about how an estate is being administered, or claims that someone hasn’t received adequate financial provision from an estate. At Wellers, we understand these are difficult times and provide clear, strategic advice to help resolve matters as smoothly as possible.
For general probate and estate administration services – please get in touch with our probate solicitors.
There are several grounds for bringing a contentious probate claim, and our expert solicitors can assess which applies to your situation:
Our contentious probate team provides comprehensive support across all types of inheritance disputes:
The cost of contentious probate matters varies significantly depending on the complexity of the dispute and how it’s resolved. We understand that legal costs are an important consideration, particularly during an already stressful time.
At Wellers, we always provide clear information about likely costs from the outset. We’ll discuss:
Many contentious probate matters can be resolved through negotiation or mediation, which is typically more cost-effective than proceeding to court. We’ll always explore these options first whilst protecting your position.
Our contentious probate solicitors are ready to help with all aspects of a disputed probate, whether that be disputing the validity of a will, an Inheritance Act claim where the will does not give sufficient financial provision for a family member, or a dispute about the duties of a trustee or executors.
We guide families through this process with care and clarity, ensuring your loved one’s best interests are fully protected. Our expert lawyers have experience in acting for all interested parties including beneficiaries, executors, administrators, trustees and deputies.
We support families pulling together and, where there is dispute, can also handle litigation in the Court of Protection. Whatever the situation, we will do our best to help you.
Based in Southeast and Central London, our contentious probate solicitors operate in Bromley, Surrey, Sevenoaks and London, representing clients with will disputes and inheritance claims. Whether your case requires negotiation, mediation or court proceedings, we provide clear, strategic advice tailored to your circumstances.
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Sasha Burl
Solicitor
Krishna Patel
Solicitor
Jonathan Tyler
PartnerI can honestly say that Krishna is a credit to her firm. From the moment I contacted her, she has been nothing but kind and patient with me. She guided me through many things I did not understand and her advice was immeasurable. She was always calm and reassuring on the phone, which was what I needed. I never felt alone with what I was dealing with , I knew I could always talk or email Krishna. She is truly amazing and would definitely recommend her to anyone who needs any legal advice. Thank you Krishna, you are a star !
Krishna was so easy to talk to and was able to clearly and articulately outline the options available to me. Her patience and kindness meant that at the end of the call I was left feeling much better about a potentially difficult situation. I didn't feel at all rushed and could ask questions to clarify my understanding which has not always been the case I find when speaking to legal professionals. I can honestly say this was an extremely positive experience and I would have no hesitation in recommending Krishna for legal advice.
We contacted Krishna regarding a sensitive matter that really made my wife and I uneasy. Following our phone call with Krishna she made us feel at ease with her clear explanation of the situation whilst also telling us the worst case scenario. Krishna was very patient and has reassured us on our situation.
Contentious probate involves disputes that arise during the administration of a deceased person’s estate. This can include disagreements over the validity of a will, the way an estate is distributed and/or how executors are handling their responsibilities. These disputes often occur between family members or other beneficiaries and can be emotionally and legally complex.
At Wellers, we provide clear, strategic advice to help clients resolve contentious probate matters efficiently and with sensitivity.
Challenging a will is one form of contentious probate. It specifically refers to questioning whether a will is legally valid, perhaps because the person who made it lacked capacity, was pressured, or did not follow legal formalities.
Contentious probate, on the other hand, includes a broader range of issues such as concerns about the conduct of executors, disputes between beneficiaries, misuse of funds or claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975. If you’re unsure where your issue fits, we’re happy to have an initial consultation.
Costs can vary depending on the nature and complexity of the dispute. Some cases can be resolved through negotiation or mediation, which is generally more cost-effective, while others may require court proceedings.
At Wellers, we always provide a clear cost estimate at the outset and keep you updated throughout. In some cases, we may offer deferred fees or consider alternative fee arrangements depending on the merits of the case.
Yes, many types of contentious probate claims are subject to strict time limits. For example, claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975 must generally be issued within six months of the grant of probate. Other claims, such as challenging the validity of a will, may not have a defined time limit, but delay can still weaken your position.
If you’re concerned about an estate or a will, it’s vital to act quickly. Our team can advise you immediately to ensure your rights are protected.
You can contest probate at any time before the estate has been fully distributed. However, the longer you wait, the more difficult it may become to reverse decisions or recover assets. If probate has already been granted, it may still be possible to challenge the will or bring a claim, but you’ll need strong legal grounds.
We recommend seeking legal advice as early as possible to avoid unnecessary complications.
Non-contentious probate is the standard process of administering an estate where there are no disputes. Contentious probate arises when there’s a disagreement about the will, how the estate is being handled, or who should inherit. If everyone agrees with the will and how things are being managed, it’s non-contentious. If there’s any dispute, it becomes contentious.
Being left out of a will doesn’t automatically give you the right to contest it. However, you may have a claim if you were financially dependent on the deceased or fall within certain categories under the Inheritance Act 1975 (such as spouses, children, or cohabitees). You might also challenge the will if you believe it’s invalid for reasons like undue influence or lack of capacity.
The general rule is that the losing party pays the winner’s costs, but contentious probate can be different. Sometimes costs come from the estate, particularly if the dispute arose from genuine concerns about the will’s validity. We’ll advise you on the likely costs position in your case and discuss ways to manage cost risks.
Yes, and we encourage this where possible. Many disputes are resolved through negotiation, mediation, or other forms of alternative dispute resolution. This is usually quicker, less stressful, and more cost-effective than going to court. However, we’re fully prepared to litigate when necessary to protect your interests.
London
020 7481 2422
Bromley
020 8464 4242
Surrey
01483 284567
Sevenoaks
01732 457 575
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