Contentious trusts and probate

Ashtons Legal

Ashtons Legal has built up a substantial contentious trusts and probate group in recent years and some clients see it as ‘the “go to” firm in East Anglia for private wealth disputes’. Lead partner and ACTAPS member Polly Stephenson in Ipswich focuses purely on this area of law, with strong support from ‘reliable and exceptional’ legal executive Joanna Baker (who is known for her ‘deft client handling and empathetic approach’). Litigation partner Annabel Mayer in Bury St Edmunds and ‘thorough and conscientious’ senior associate Gino Ballestracci in Norwich also play key roles in the practice.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

'Each specialist department work exceptionally well together which results in an excellent team. The other employees we have dealt with have been extremely knowledgeable but also friendly and approachable, this is what makes the practice stand out from other firms I have used in the past.'
'We have had the pleasure of dealing with Gino Ballestracci. We find him exceptional at his work. Not only is he extremely knowledgeable but also easy to talk to, friendly and approachable. He is mindful of our mental health when personal matters have been difficult for us. Considering his large workload his quality of work never drops. His availability is excellent and he has always been available to discuss any developments and matters became stressful his advice and reassurance was highly appreciated.'
‘Ashtons Legal are the "go to" firm in East Anglia for private wealth disputes, especially concerning property and estates issues. Joanna Baker is always reliable and exceptional - you want her in your corner. Joanna's handling of factually sensitive and legally complex work makes her a first port of call for difficult cases. We have worked on a several cases concerning trusts of land, proprietary estoppel and inheritance disputes. ’
‘I have worked with Ashtons Legal, and in particular Joanna Baker, on a number of legally complex and factually difficult matters. Joanna's deft client handling and empathetic approach make her ideal in dealing with complexities. Clients always know that she is on their side and her legal knowledge is impressive to match.'
'Joanna Baker and Polly Stephenson head up a great team where they have the breath of expertise to offer advice on all budgets. They lead from the front and ensure that clients get great value for money. ’
‘Gino Ballestracci is very thorough and conscientious, and this ultimately is to the benefit of his clients. Their team rivals the best in the City of Norwich.’
‘The team are thorough, insightful and communicate promptly.’
‘Joanna Baker is extremely good. Always willing to go the extra mile to get a resolution. Sets out matters clearly and is prompt at responding.’

Key clients

Jayne Hathway
Julie Smith

Work highlights

Success in the Court of Appeal this year in the case of Bowser v Smith [2023] EWCA Civ 923.
Representing clients in a multi-million pound, multi-jurisdictional dispute whose outcome has significant tax implications. The clients are defending a challenge from the children of the deceased in relation to a professionally prepared Will.
Representing clients in a range of multi-million pound disputes in varying circumstances, also dealing with the removal of executors and handling an estate inherited by a minor.