Contentious Probate Solicitors in Cheshire

Expert Advice on Contesting a Will and Inheritance Disputes

Disputes over a loved one’s estate can be complex, sensitive and legally challenging. If you believe a Will is invalid, unfair or does not properly reflect the intentions of the person who made it, you may be able to challenge it through contentious probate proceedings.

At Gavin Edmondson Solicitors, our private client team of experienced contentious probate solicitors advise clients across Cheshire on a wide range of inheritance disputes. Whether you are contesting a Will, defending a claim, or seeking clarity on your legal position, we provide clear, strategic advice tailored to your circumstances.

What is contentious probate?

Contentious probate refers to disputes relating to a person’s estate after they have died. These disputes can arise whether or not a valid Will exists and often involve disagreements between family members, beneficiaries or executors.

Common examples of contentious probate claims include:

• Disputes over the validity of a Will
• Claims that a Will does not make reasonable financial provision
• Disagreements between executors and beneficiaries
• Allegations of undue influence or fraud
• Concerns about how an estate is being administered

These matters can be legally complex and emotionally difficult, particularly where family relationships are involved.

Contesting a Will: When Can It Be Done?

One of the most common questions we are asked is:

“Can you contest a Will?”

The answer is yes — but only on specific legal grounds.

You may be able to challenge a Will if there is evidence of:

Lack of Testamentary Capacity

The person making the Will must have understood the nature of the document, the extent of their estate, and the effect of their decisions.

Undue Influence

If the testator was pressured or coerced into making or changing their Will, it may be invalid.

Lack of Knowledge and Approval

The person must have known and approved the contents of the Will.

Improper Execution

Wills must meet strict legal formalities. If these are not followed, the Will may not be valid.

Fraud or Forgery

If a Will has been falsified or tampered with, it can be challenged.

Understanding how to contest a Will requires careful legal analysis, and early advice is essential.

You can read more about the grounds for contesting a will in our legal guide.

Claims for Financial Provision

Even where a Will is valid, certain individuals may still be entitled to make a claim against the estate.

Under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975, individuals such as spouses, children or dependants may be able to bring a claim if they have not received reasonable financial provision.

These claims form an important part of contentious probate and often require a strategic approach to achieve a fair outcome.

Defending a Will or Estate

We also act for executors and beneficiaries who need to defend a Will or estate against challenge.

Being involved in a dispute can be stressful, particularly where allegations are made regarding the validity of a Will or the conduct of an executor. Our contentious probate solicitors provide robust representation, ensuring your position is protected throughout the process.

Where appropriate, we aim to resolve disputes through negotiation or mediation, avoiding unnecessary court proceedings where possible.

The Importance of Early Legal Advice

If you are considering contesting a Will, timing is critical.

Some claims, particularly those under the Inheritance Act, are subject to strict time limits. Delays can significantly affect your ability to bring a claim.

Seeking early advice from experienced contentious probate solicitors can help you:

• Understand whether you have valid grounds to contest a Will
• Preserve evidence to support your claim
• Protect your financial position
• Explore options for early resolution

How We Can Help

At Gavin Edmondson Solicitors, we provide practical and strategic advice at every stage of a dispute.

We assist with:

• Assessing the merits of a claim
• Advising on how to contest a Will
• Gathering and preserving evidence
• Negotiating settlements
• Representing clients in court proceedings where necessary

Our approach is focused on achieving a resolution that protects your interests while managing the cost and complexity of litigation.

How Contentious Probate Relates to Other Services

Inheritance disputes often arise from wider estate planning or administration issues.

For example:

• Poorly drafted or outdated Wills can lead to disputes
• Issues during Probate & Estate Administration can trigger disagreements
• Lack of planning or unclear arrangements can increase the risk of claims

Our broader Private Client expertise allows us to advise on these issues in context, providing a more complete and informed approach to contentious probate matters.

Why Choose Gavin Edmondson Solicitors?

Clients across Cheshire choose our firm because we provide:

• Clear and practical legal advice
• Strategic handling of complex inheritance disputes
• A measured and professional approach to sensitive matters
• Strong experience in contentious probate claims

We understand that these disputes often involve family relationships as well as legal issues, and we approach every case with both technical expertise and care.