Inheritance disputes

It is a sad fact of life that disputes following the death of a loved one are increasing. This is partly because of the framework of modern families in which parties may not prefer to marry or are involved in same sex relationships, or may have step children.

Disputes can arise because the deceased did not make a will, or did make a will but did not provide for someone they ought to have. There are also many situations where the validity of a will might be challenged. For instance, where the testator lacked mental capacity, was subjected to the undue influence of others, the will was forged or wasn’t signed and witnessed properly or claims made by parties under the Family and Dependents Act 1975.

Disputes can also arise if executors, administrators or trustees of an estate do not handle the distribution of the estate efficiently or in accordance with a will or intestacy rules.

Any individuals who feel aggrieved by not being included in a will, believe that a will is invalid, or that the estate is not being administered efficiently, should take immediate advice as there are time limits which must be adhered to for claims and certain categories of individual who are able to make a claim. It is vital to seek advice at a very early stage if a claim is to be successful.

At Martin Kaye Solicitors, we have a number of lawyers who are experienced in both prosecuting and defending claims of this nature. We have, for many years, handled cases generated through the website contest-a-will.co.uk.

For more information, please contact Timothy Green on 01952 272222 or timothygreen@martinkaye.co.uk.