Nikki Carlisle

Associate

Nikki is an associate in the contentious private client team, advising private individuals, trustees, and executors on a wide range of contentious trust and estate matters. Her work frequently involves sensitive family dynamics, high emotional stakes, and complex procedural issues.

She has experience across a broad spectrum of disputes, including challenges to the validity and interpretation of wills, claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975, contested estate administration, and executor and trustee disputes. Nikki also advises on applications for the removal and appointment of personal representatives and has experience supporting clients through mediation and settlement negotiations, as well as matters progressing through court.

Contentious private client work often involves complex legal issues and deeply personal circumstances. I pride myself on providing thoughtful, robust advice while supporting clients with empathy, clear communication, and a steady hand through what are often emotionally challenging disputes.

Nikki Carlisle, Associate

Nikki works closely with clients to understand both the legal and personal context of their dispute. Her approach is calm, empathetic and solutions focused, guiding clients through emotionally challenging situations, while keeping their wider objectives firmly in view. Alongside her legal expertise, Nikki brings a strong commercial perspective and advisory experience from her previous career, enabling her to approach disputes pragmatically and with a clear appreciation of risk, cost and outcome.

Recent work highlights

Executor removal claim

Representing the claimants in an executor removal claim across two estates.

Independent administrator

Acting for the independent administrator in a multimillion pound contentious estate that included mediation of multiple 1975 Act claims and a blessing application of a ‘momentous decision’ to sell estate assets.

Will validity claim

Defending a will validity challenge that had been brought on the grounds of lack of testamentary capacity and undue influence.

Inheritance dispute

Acting for the ex-spouse and child to vary the distribution of an intestate estate.