Contesting a will
without the conflict
Losing a loved one is hard. It’s made even harder when the time you should spend grieving is instead spent disputing a will. That’s why we work quickly, protecting your relationships as well as your interests.
Considerate probate solicitors that get results
Wills are, by their very nature, contentious. Probate solicitors like us aim to change that. We know how difficult this time can be, so we’ll help you overcome the unique obstacles of challenging a will while approaching others in the will sensitively and honestly.
We’re able to help you if you’re contesting a will after probate too. Whatever your circumstances, our professional team will work with you and your family to make your claim go as smoothly as possible.
We’ve helped thousands, like you, get the best outcome
Why Optimal Solicitors?
We appreciate the sensitive nature of contesting a will. What’s more, through our team of highly qualified probate specialists, we’re able to put expertise behind our approach so that all parties receive what they’re due.
With us, no stone is left unturned. If there are issues with the will – such as a concern that it was written when the deceased didn’t have the mental capacity to manage their own affairs – we explore every possible route forward.
We specialise in wills and probate
With an extensive team in both property and family law, as well as our in-house probate solicitors, we’re able to handle complex cases and work out the true value of estates.
We fight your corner
No matter what your circumstances are, we’ll work to resolve issues and represent your interests before and after probate. You can contact us in the way that works best for you – phone, email, or in person.
We’re transparent about pricing
We understand that losing someone can take you by surprise, and settling the estate can prove costly. Our pricing will give you confidence that you can afford your claim – what we quote is what you’ll pay.
Who can contest a will?
If you feel the will doesn’t provide enough for you, has unfairly left you out, or misrepresents the deceased’s final wishes, you can contest it. We also represent claims where family members or loved ones feel they’ve been left too little to get by.
Likewise, sometimes the deceased has made a verbal promise that someone may be left a certain personal belonging or percentage of the estate. Our team can represent your interests here, taking a sensitive approach to honour your loved one’s wishes without dragging the dispute on.
How do I contest a will?
This depends on the dispute. Typically, we examine the will and any related documents first. This includes property deeds, trust accounts, and any previous wills. We’ll also gather medical evidence so that we’re better able to understand the deceased’s condition, plus speak to those who knew them.
Next, we look at mediation. This step ideally allows clients to avoid court, which is often costly and time-consuming. Mediation usually takes a day and will be guided by a trained professional. Their role is to help you find a resolution.
Some disputes can’t be solved by mediation, so you’ll have to go to court. While this is rare, we’re experienced in representing claims like these and will use our expertise to secure the best outcome.
Are there time limits to contesting a will?
While this also depends on the dispute, you need to start within six months of the court issuing the ‘grant of representation’ – a document that names the person who will deal with the estate. It’s important to seek legal advice as soon as possible if you believe you’ve been treated unfairly. This will give you a better chance of making a valid claim, and give us more time to support your argument.
How much does it cost?
Again, this depends on the circumstances of your dispute. If you have to go to court, that naturally increases the overall cost of legal support. However, if an agreement is reached before it comes to that, the costs can then be split between the people involved – helping to keep as much of the estate’s total wealth as possible.
Have confidence in your claim with us
Our approach is professional, sensitive, and allows you proper time to grieve by minimising the length of the dispute. See what we can do for you.