Private Wealth Inheritance Disputes

Our private wealth disputes team are experts at resolving complex inheritance disputes for high-net-worth families.

Recognition for our work

Protecting wealth, relationships and legacy

Our Private Wealth team provides discreet, strategic advice for high-net-worth individuals facing contested wills, trust disputes, and other inheritance challenges. We help protect family wealth, relationships and your legacy, guiding you through sensitive disputes efficiently and professionally.

Our Contentious Trusts and Probate team regularly advise on multi-million-pound matters, acting for individuals, families and trustees across the UK and internationally. Our expertise spans the full spectrum of contentious trusts and estates work, from inheritance and will disputes to complex trust, Court of Protection and financial abuse claims.

These cases are rarely just about the law. They often involve family relationships under strain, significant wealth at stake and difficult decisions to make. From the outset, Forbes Solicitors focus on giving you clarity, control and the confidence that comes from having experienced specialists on your side.

Who Can We Help

Who Can We Help

Business owners - Ensuring family ownership and business succession plans are respected.

Blended families and complex family structures - Minimising disputes between stepchildren, beneficiaries and trustees.

High-net-worth individuals with complex estates - Protecting multi-jurisdictional assets, trusts and legacies.

Types of Inheritance Disputes We Handle

Types of Inheritance Disputes We Handle

Specialist Advice Across All Types of Private Wealth Disputes

Will Disputes

  • Challenging or defending the validity of a will

  • Addressing suspected undue influence, lack of capacity, or fraud

Trust Disputes

  • Conflicts over the management or distribution of trusts

  • Trustees acting in breach of duty or failing fiduciary responsibilities

Inheritance Act Claims

  • Claims by dependants or spouses under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975

  • Ensuring fair distribution while protecting other beneficiaries

Executor and Trustee Disputes

  • Guidance for executors/trustees facing challenges

  • Mitigating risks for estate administration and fiduciary duties

Proprietary Estoppel and Other Complex Claims

  • Claims where individuals believe they were promised assets or inheritance

  • Resolving potential conflicts before litigation escalates

Our Approach

Our Approach

Discreet, Strategic, Results-Oriented Advice

The Private Wealth Inheritance team understand that inheritance disputes are often sensitive and complex, particularly for high-net-worth individuals with substantial assets. Our approach combines –

  •  Early risk assessment to prevent escalation

  • Strategic negotiation to preserve family relationships and wealth

  • Litigation expertise if disputes cannot be resolved amicably

  • Tailored private wealth advice for business succession, multi-jurisdictional estates and complex trust.

We guide our clients every step of the way, ensuring clarity, discretion and a practical route to resolution

Private Wealth dispute FAQs

Can a will be challenged if I think a beneficiary was unfairly favoured?

Yes. Our team advises on all types of contested wills, including claims under the Inheritance Act, and helps protect your interests while seeking an equitable outcome.

How can trustees avoid disputes over trusts?

Proper documentation, clear communication with beneficiaries, and professional administration reduce risk. We can review and restructure trusts to avoid conflicts.

What steps can I take if I’m a beneficiary or executor facing a potential dispute?

Contact a specialist early. Our Private Wealth Disputes team provides practical guidance on negotiation, risk management and litigation if required.

Our dedicated Private Wealth Disputes Team

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Partner, Wills, Trusts & Estate Disputes

John Lambe

Tom Howcroft.jpg

Partner, Wills, Trusts & Estate Disputes

Tom Howcroft

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Senior Associate, Wills, Trusts & Estate Disputes

Nicola Kate Smith

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Senior Associate, Wills, Trusts & Estate Disputes

Rebecca Beaumont

Contact Us

No obligation, no pressure. We will only use your information to return your call and you won’t receive marketing emails. A member of our team will get back to you shortly.

0800 689 3206 - Monday - Friday: 09:00 - 17:00

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