Michelmores LLP

Private Client

I am a Partner at Michelmores and head of the Disputed Wills & Estates team as well as head of the Charity Sector. I joined the Firm in 2002 and I am proud to be part of the success story that is Michelmores.

I work with either private individuals or leading national charities, advising on a wide range of private client litigation matters. This involves acting for clients where there is a dispute in relation to a Will or a trust. I also act in contentious Court of Protection matters.

Disputes regarding Wills arise in a number of circumstances for example where the testator’s mental capacity is being challenged or where there is an allegation of undue influence.

I have developed a particular specialism in advising in claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975. including a number of high profile and high value claims A further common area of law where I have acted on a number of matters is the doctrine of proprietary estoppel claim.

I recognise that embarking on a dispute can be extremely challenging for my clients and like to develop a collegiate working relationship to achieve the best possible result. I thrive on developing and maintaining the relationships with clients during what is generally a stressful time.

My role acting for a member of national charities primarily involves advising in a wide range of issues arising out of the legacies gifted in Wills.

I am also an experienced mediator and have been mediating disputes for over 15 years. I have attended well over 100 mediations and enjoy bringing my pragmatic approach to helping people find resolutions to complex situations.

I sit on the national committee for the Association of Contentious Trust and Probate Specialists.

Expertise

• Assisted Dying and Relief from Forfeiture
• Challenging the Validity of a Will
• Charity Legacy Administration
• Defamation & Reputation Management for Businesses
• Defamation & Reputation Management for Individuals
• Estate Disputes
• Personal Disputes
• Private Wealth
• Proprietary Claims

Tony Cockayne - Partner - Disputed Wills & Estates | Michelmores