Trustee Removal Case: Key Lessons for Families
When family dynamics intersect with wealth planning, even well-intentioned trust arrangements can come under strain. A recent High Court decision highlights the importance of clear governance, open communication and proactive advice to help families protect both their assets and their relationships.
Published: January 2nd, 2026
2 min read
When family wealth, legacy planning, and personal relationships collide, even the best-intentioned trusts can unravel. A recent High Court ruling has shone a spotlight on the complexities behind trustee behaviour and revealed the costly consequences when decisions drift away from a founder’s wishes. For families with significant assets, this case offers timely lessons in safeguarding both wealth and family harmony.
A recent High Court case, Smith v Campbell & Others (2025), involved a family trust set up by Graham Cheslyn-Curtis, founder of Millpledge Group, a veterinary supply company. After Graham died in 2018, his estate was managed by four trustees: two trusted business associates and two family members. The trust was designed to benefit Graham’s long-term partner, her children, and Graham’s son.
However, tensions arose when the trustees made decisions that didn’t align with Graham’s wishes, especially regarding the future of the Millpledge Group. The conflict came to a head when Nathan and Leah, the children of Graham’s partner, were removed as directors of the company - a role Graham had wanted them to hold. The Claimants (Nathan and Leah) argued that the trustees were failing in their duties and sought their removal.
The case ultimately saw the Court deciding to replace two of the trustees, partly due to their negative attitude towards the Claimants, which was believed to hinder the proper administration of the trust.
Key Takeaways for Families
Trustees Must Act Fairly and Keep Beneficiaries Informed
Trustees have a duty to treat all beneficiaries fairly and communicate clearly. If you feel left out or treated unfairly, you may have grounds to challenge their actions.
If Relationships Break Down, Trustees Can Be Removed
When trustees and beneficiaries conflict, the Court can decide to replace trustees to ensure the trust is managed properly.
Professional Oversight Can Help Prevent Conflict
Family members can be trustees, but it’s often helpful to have a professional trustee involved to ensure decisions are fair and impartial.
A Letter of Wishes Helps Guide Trustees, But It’s Not Binding
A letter of wishes from the person who set up the trust can guide trustees, but it isn’t legally enforceable. It’s important to make sure it’s clear and realistic.
Try to Resolve Issues Before Going to Court
Legal action should be a last resort. It’s better to try and resolve issues through open discussion or mediation before taking the matter to court.
By understanding these lessons, families can ensure their trusts are managed effectively, fairly, and in line with their wishes. A well-structured trust is one of the most effective ways to protect wealth for future generations, but only when trustees are aligned, informed and acting with absolute integrity. If you have concerns about the way a trust is being managed, or you want to put stronger protections in place to avoid disputes like those seen in Smith v Campbell, now is the time to seek expert guidance. With the right advice, you can preserve not only your assets, but the relationships that matter most. If you’d like to discuss your own trust arrangements in confidence, our team is here to help.
Get Advice on Contesting a Will
At Forbes Solicitors, we specialise in contested Wills and inheritance disputes, including claims by estranged adult children. We offer clear advice, realistic prospect assessments and no-win, no-fee options where appropriate.
If you have been left out of a Will and are struggling financially, contact us for a confidential, no-obligation discussion.
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