Our Services

Contentious Probate solicitors in Birmingham

Guiding you through contentious probate with confidence and care.

When a loved one passes away, disputes concerning their will and estate can be emotionally challenging and legally complex. With our extensive experience in contentious probate matters, our specialist solicitors provide clear and decisive guidance to help you resolve these sensitive disputes efficiently.

Our team understands that each case is unique. From challenging the validity of a will to addressing concerns about executor conduct or pursuing inheritance claims, we work closely with you to determine the most appropriate strategy for your circumstances.

We handle a wide range of probate disputes, including:

Challenges to will validity due to lack of testamentary capacity
Claims of undue influence or fraudulent calumny
Contested executor appointments and conduct
Applications for financial provision under the Inheritance Act 1975
Disputes between beneficiaries and trustees
Removal of executors who are not fulfilling their duties

Enquire with us today

0121 450 7800

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We tried to get support from 3 other solicitors with no joy, they didn't appear to want to know or support in anyway. Then thankfully we tried RLK solicitors. Right from the first call they were supporting and reassuring and helpful and most importantly they had a great listening ear as I was going into territory I did not understand.

Elise Frisby

Inheritance disputes

Losing someone close is difficult enough without having to navigate complex inheritance disputes. When expectations don't align with the provisions made, or when you have concerns about how an estate is being administered, our experienced team can help you understand your options and rights.

Our contentious probate solicitors approach these sensitive matters with both empathy and pragmatism, recognising the emotional backdrop while delivering the robust representation you need.

When your inheritance rights have been overlooked

If you believe you have not received adequate provision from a loved one's estate, or if you're concerned about the validity of a will, we can help you assess your position and determine the best course of action. Our solicitors have experience in representing both claimants and defendants in contentious probate matters, giving us valuable insights from all perspectives of these disputes.

4.9/5

Contentious Probate without unnecessary stress

Our contentious probate team at RLK offers practical solutions that deliver the results you need, at the most appropriate cost.

We understand that these disputes occur at an already difficult time. That's why our approach combines technical legal expertise with an appreciation of the sensitive family dynamics often at play. Our senior solicitors lead each case personally, ensuring you receive the highest level of service and expertise throughout.

Unlike some national firms that delegate to teams of paralegals, we provide senior solicitor led representation with the commercial acumen of experienced litigators, giving your case the attention and strategic handling it deserves.

How we help you navigate contentious probate

Our team specialises in

Clear assessment of claim validity

Clear assessment of your prospects of success

Representation in negotiations, mediation, and court proceedings

Support in addressing executor misconduct or negligence

Advice on protecting assets during ongoing disputes

Assistance with removing unsuitable executors

Commercial approach focused on pragmatic outcomes

Make An Enquiry

Contentious Probate doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Let RLK help you navigate this journey with confidence, clarity and care, ensuring a swift and complete resolution.

FAQs

Medically, the person who made the Will was so unwell that they could not have known what they were doing. What if anything can I do?

If the individual was medically unwell to the extent that they lacked testamentary capacity when making their Will, you may have grounds to contest its validity. To establish lack of capacity, we would need to demonstrate that the person did not understand the nature of making a Will, the extent of their property, or the claims of those who might expect to benefit.

We would work with you to obtain relevant medical records and expert opinions to support your case. Our team has significant experience in capacity-related challenges and can advise on the likelihood of success based on the specific circumstances and evidence available.

I am a relative of the deceased and I was financially dependent on them, but I have not been provided for in the Will. What can I do?

If you were financially dependent on the deceased but have not been adequately provided for in their Will, you may be able to make a claim under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975. This legislation allows certain categories of individuals to claim reasonable financial provision from the estate.

Eligible claimants include spouses, former spouses, children, individuals treated as children of the family, and anyone financially dependent on the deceased. Our team can assess your eligibility, advise on the merits of your claim, and guide you through the process of seeking appropriate provision from the estate.

I wish to challenge a Will but are concerned that the executors will act quickly to administer its terms. What can I do to protect the position in the interim?

If you're planning to contest a Will but are concerned about the estate being distributed before your claim is resolved, we can help you apply for a caveat at the Probate Registry. This prevents the grant of probate being issued for a period of six months (which can be extended) and effectively pauses the administration process.

In some cases, we may also advise entering a warning or applying for an injunction to prevent executors from distributing assets. Our solicitors can act quickly to protect your interests while your substantive claim is being prepared.