Irwin Mitchell

Wills, Trust and Estate Disputes

I'm a Partner specialising in resolving disputes about wills, estates and trusts. I work with Beneficiaries, Executors and Trustees (including professional Executors/Trustees) in order to resolve disputes as quickly and efficiently as possible, with a view to minimising costs.

I aim to use alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, wherever possible, to resolve matters in a more timely and cost effective manner. However, I also have considerable experience of litigating matters up to the High Court where necessary.

People involved with these disputes are often suffering the effects of bereavement at the same time. This can make it more difficult for them to cope with the dispute or to see how best to resolve it. I aim to give clear and pragmatic advice, while remaining sensitive to the effects of the bereavement on all sides.

When dealing with Executors or Trustees, I advise how to protect their position, in line with their obligations, such as by maintaining their neutrality in sometimes difficult circumstances.

My experience includes:

• Claims against estates or trusts by disappointed Beneficiaries
• Challenges to the validity of Wills
• Disputes between Executors, Trustees, and Beneficiaries
• Removal of Executors
• Disputes about the interpretation of Wills
• Disputes about Estate or Trust assets or their distribution
• Guidance for Trustees or Executors about their obligations
• Claims against professional advisors
• Disputes over property ownership (where a trust has arisen)
• Disputes involving the actions or removal of Attorneys
• Disputed deputyships.