International trusts and estates disputes
The proper administration of estates and trusts often involves not only English law, but also the law of other countries. Our experienced team resolves disputes involving international aspects such as court proceedings in other jurisdictions, the enforcement of judgments both here and abroad, and potential conflicts between the laws of different countries.
Trust and estate disputes experts
Our probate and trust disputes team is capable of quickly identifying the numerous ways in which international laws might be relevant to a trust or estate dispute, and advises clients accordingly. International issues can also apply if a person has invoked the law of a foreign country by, for example, owning assets abroad or marrying a foreign national.
The domicile of persons who have moved abroad before their death will affect the way in which their assets are distributed and the tax payable. Many other countries have ‘forced heirship’ laws which determine how the assets in an estate are distributed regardless of any will.
Even where a person has remained in England, they may own assets abroad, either outright or held in an offshore trust. The way in which those assets are dealt with will involve an analysis of the proper law to be applied and a resolution if the legal requirements of various countries conflict with each other.
The firm’s private client team… has a strong record of representing clients in matters involving multiple claims or assets spread across several jurisdictions.
Where a dispute with a foreign element arises, the correct country in which any court proceedings should be started, and the applicable law, should be determined as soon as possible, as these factors can have a significant bearing on the likely outcome of a dispute. As a member of MultiLaw, we have quick access to a network of reputable legal advisers in other jurisdictions.
How we help our clients
Administration of trusts
Duties of trustees
Breach of trust claims
Remedies for breach of trust
Removal of trustees
Avoiding breaches of trust
What our clients are saying
The contentious probate team at Penningtons is part of the bedrock of the private client market. The solicitors are consistently involved in high-profile matters.
The team has a strong international practice and contains a lot of knowledge.
Recent work highlights
UK and Spanish assets
Judgment for Australian executor
English court proceedings
Misuse of trust assets
Reversal of transfer into trust
Cost liability in will dispute
Contact us
Please complete this form to send us your enquiry. We will be in touch shortly with a reply.
If you need to speak to someone soon, call:
