Personal
SOLVING PERSONAL LEGAL MATTERS
Contentious Probate is a term to describe disputes relating to Wills and Estates. Contentious Probate does not include claims under the Inheritance Act.
Claims that fall within contentious probate include claims to challenge the validity of a Will. The grounds to challenge the validity of a Will are set out in detail here and include:
If you suspect a Will is invalid then the first step is to investigate the circumstances surrounding the drafting of a Will. A Larke v Nugus request can be made to the solicitor who drafted the Will for example, and medical records can be obtained.
It is important that Estate assets are protected and so we would usually advise you obtain a caveat to stop a Grant of Probate being issued and to protect the large assets of the Estate.
If an executor is refusing to obtain grant and administer the Estate then you may be able to apply for a citation to force them to take out the grant of probate.
In some cases an original Will or codicil may be in the possession of a person who will not release it, and therefore preventing the administration of the Estate. In these cases it is possible to apply under section 123 of section 122 of the Senior Courts Act 1981 for a subpoena. The effect of this is to either require a person to file the will at the Probate Registry or to attend court for examination as to their knowledge of the document.
If you have any questions about grounds for contesting a Will or require advice about any aspect of Wills and probate, get in touch. Call us today on 0800 689 3607.
Get in touch to see how our experts could help you.
Monday to Friday:
09:00 to 17:00
Saturday and Sunday:
Closed
If you have a general enquiry then please fill in your details and someone will contact you.
Monday to Friday: 09:00 to 17:00
Saturday and Sunday: Closed