Michelmores LLP

Disputed Wills and Estates

I am a specialist trusts and estates litigator, with particular expertise in disputes focusing on trust and probate claims and contentious Court of Protection matters. I act for a wide range of clients based nationally and internationally, including beneficiaries, trustees, personal representatives, and charities.

I frequently advise on high value and/or complex probate and estate disputes, including invalidity claims, capacity and construction issues, as well as claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975.

I advise in a broad range of trust related actions, including trustee-beneficiary disputes and applications for the removal of trustees.

I also advise families regarding the potential financial consequences of assisted suicide and applications for relief from forfeiture under the Forfeiture Act 1982 and have acted in for the successful Claimants in the landmark decisions in Ninian v Findlay [2019] EWHC 297 (Ch) and Morris v Morris [2024] EWHC 2554 (Ch).

I am sensitive to the needs of my clients and always strive to marry high-quality and pragmatic legal advice with a thoughtful and personable manner.

I am a full member of the Association of Contentious Trust and Probate Specialists, a full member of The Association of Lifetime Lawyers, an Affiliate member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners, and a qualified solicitor advocate.

Expertise Assisted Dying and Relief from Forfeiture Challenging the Validity of a Will Charity Legacy Administration Disputed Wills & Estates Estate Disputes Inheritance Act Claims Mental Capacity Personal Disputes Private Wealth Proprietary Claims Trust Disputes

Alexa Payet - Partner - Disputed Wills & Estates | Michelmores