Contentious Probate Estate Administration

Even with a Will that is valid, numerous problems and issues can arise in relation to the administration of a deceased person’s estate.

Even if the Will is valid, numerous problems and issues can arise in relation to the administration of a deceased person’s estate. Examples of such issues/disputes are as follows:

  • The person named as the personal representative in the Will may, for various reasons, be quite unsuitable to act in that capacity. It may be necessary therefore to take action to remove that person as personal representative.
  • Although on the face of it suitable, personal representatives do not always undertake and fulfill their duties as efficiently or as honestly as they should. Again, it might be necessary to apply for the removal of that person as personal representative.
  • All sorts of issues arise between beneficiaries and the personal representatives who are administering the estate. These can include disputes as to the valuation of assets; the identification of assets which should form part of the estate; how personal effects should be distributed and so forth. If these issues cannot be sorted out on an amicable basis then it may be necessary to apply to the Court for directions as to how these issues should be resolved.

We would endeavour to sort out these disputes on a sensible and pragmatic basis. If this proves to be impossible, however, then we are able to make appropriate applications to the Court in order to ensure that the administration of the estate is successfully concluded.

Key Contact

Stuart Downey

Partner in Dispute Resolution

Meet the team

FAQs

Below are some questions that we are frequently asked by clients who require advice on Contentious Probate Estate Administration Law.

When using the term estate administration disputes, we are referring to any disputes about how a person’s estate is administered after their death. Claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975, or disputes about whether a Will is valid or not are dealt with separately. Estate administration disputes involve conflicts regarding the management and distribution of assets from a deceased person’s estate, often arising due to disagreements among beneficiaries, executors, trustees, or creditors.

Common issues include disputes over the validity of the Will, interpretation of its terms, claims of undue influence or lack of capacity, disagreements over asset valuation, and conflicts among beneficiaries or family members.

Parties involved may include beneficiaries named in the Will, potential beneficiaries contesting the Will, executors or administrators responsible for estate management, trustees overseeing trust assets, and creditors seeking repayment from the estate.

Legal representation, particularly from experienced litigation solicitors, is crucial in navigating complex estate disputes. We can provide legal advice, represent clients in negotiations or court proceedings, and work to protect our clients’ rights and interests throughout the dispute resolution process.

The duration varies depending on factors such as the complexity of the issues, willingness of parties to negotiate, and whether litigation is necessary. Some disputes can be resolved relatively quickly, while others may take months or even years to settle.

In most cases, no. Most disputes are resolved by negotiation and discussion, without having to go to court. However, sometimes this is not possible, and court is required to sort things out.
We know most people want to keep their dispute out of court and we will always try to do what we can to resolve things out of court, whether by mediation or other type of non-court-based dispute resolution process. If court proceedings are required, we will support at every stage.

To minimise the risk of disputes, individuals can create clear and comprehensive estate plans, communicate openly with family members and beneficiaries about their intentions, and seek professional advice to ensure their wishes are legally documented and properly executed.

Contact the team

Here’s how to get in touch if you have any questions at all or would like to speak to us about your enquiry. Please complete the form below and one of our experts will get in touch to discuss how we can help.

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