Contentious probate and trust disputes

A first-rate reputation, handling cases with calm diplomacy.

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Our contentious wills, probate, estates and trusts team has specialist experience in dealing with all types of disputes, both in England and Wales and internationally. We act for beneficiaries, executors and trustees - including individuals, trust companies and other organisations such as charities.

Whether you have concerns about the validity of a will, the way in which an estate or trust is being administered or have not received what you expected from an estate, Penningtons Manches Cooper's contentious private client solicitors can help. We will quickly advise on the options available to reach a solution for you at what is often an emotionally difficult time. We will also provide detailed information on costs and funding options.

By becoming involved at an early stage and by giving tailored advice, we can offer practical solutions to defuse conflict. We aim to resolve matters by negotiation, mediation or other methods of alternative dispute resolution where appropriate and possible. However, when court proceedings cannot be avoided, we ensure that they are conducted professionally, skilfully and as cost effectively as possible.

We recognise that many cases by their very nature involve members of the same family. With our sensitive and careful approach, we aim to ensure that family relationships are maintained.

Our team includes members of the Association of Contentious Trusts and Probate Specialists (ACTAPS) and the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP).

Recent work highlights

Successful High Court ruling

Defending a High Court claim against a vulnerable client by a claimant who was a former carer of the client. The court ordered that she repay money and replace documents improperly removed by her.


Inheritance claim by disabled son

Mediating a claim under the Inheritance (Provision for Family & Dependants) Act 1975 on behalf of an adult child who suffered from a minor disability and was left nothing in his late mother’s will.


Discord between trustees

Advising on the removal of trustees where trustees were unable to agree on actions to be taken in relation to the trust.

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Penningtons Manches Cooper LLP

Penningtons Manches Cooper LLP is a limited liability partnership registered in England and Wales with registered number OC311575 and is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority under number 419867.

Penningtons Manches Cooper LLP