Probate Dispute Solicitors

Flint Bishop is one of the most experienced firms in England and Wales for contentious probate and estate administration disputes. We are trusted by clients nationally to resolve emotionally and financially significant matters with care, clarity, and authority.

Clients choose Flint Bishop for our technical expertise and our commitment to delivering clear, practical advice during some of the most difficult times in their lives. Whether you are defending your actions as an executor or administrator, challenging the fairness of a distribution, or dealing with a stalled or contested estate, we bring the knowledge, strategic insight, and emotional understanding needed to guide you toward the best possible outcome.

We believe every dispute deserves a thoughtful and personalised response. With a proven ability to resolve matters out of court and the strength to represent clients at the highest level, Flint Bishop stands apart as a leading firm for estate administration disputes.

Estate administration disputes can arise for many reasons, often at a time when families are grieving and tensions are already high. Whether concerns are raised about how the estate is being handled, or questions are asked about the meaning of a Will or entitlement to an inheritance, these matters require expert guidance and a calm, strategic approach.

At Flint Bishop, we assist clients in resolving all types of estate administration disputes. Below are some of the most common forms of dispute that can arise. Each reflects a unique set of legal and emotional challenges, and in each case, our team provides practical, client-focused advice to help resolve the issues as efficiently and sensitively as possible.

• Challenging an executor of a will: An executor plays a key role in administering the estate, but sometimes their actions, or inaction, give rise to concern. Common complaints include failure to communicate with beneficiaries, delays in administering the estate, or allegations of mismanagement or conflict of interest. If you believe an executor is not fulfilling their legal duties properly, you may be able to challenge their conduct through legal action. We can assess your position, advise on your rights, and help you take steps to protect the estate and your inheritance.
• Executor & administrator disputes: Disputes involving executors and administrators are common during estate administration and can arise from delays, poor communication, or concerns about how the estate is being managed. These disagreements often involve co-executors unable to work together or beneficiaries who feel excluded or mistreated. If tensions are not addressed promptly, the administration process can stall, potentially harming the estate and those due to inherit. Whether you are an executor facing difficulties or a beneficiary seeking answers, we provide clear, practical guidance to resolve these issues as efficiently and amicably as possible.
• Removal of executors & trustees: Where an executor or trustee is failing in their duties, acting dishonestly, or causing harm to the estate through neglect or misconduct, it may be necessary to apply to court for their removal. This can be a sensitive step, but one that is sometimes essential to preserve the estate and protect beneficiaries. Our solicitors regularly advise on these applications and will guide you through the process with clarity and care.
• Charity & legacy disputes: Charities often benefit from estates where the deceased has left a legacy gift. Disputes can arise over the interpretation of that gift, the administration of the estate, or when charities appear to act aggressively in pursuit of funds. Conversely, charities may need to defend their entitlement against claims from disappointed family members. Whether you represent a charity or are a family member facing a claim involving one, we offer experienced advice tailored to your position.
• Pre-death agreement claims: It is not uncommon for individuals to make promises during their lifetime, such as agreeing to leave property to a certain person, only for those promises to be broken or not reflected in their Will. In such cases, the person who relied on that promise may have grounds to bring a claim against the estate. These claims are complicated and fact-sensitive. Our team has significant experience in bringing and defending such claims, particularly where the promise involved a property, farm, or business.
• Caveats: A caveat is a formal notice that temporarily stops the probate process. It is often used where someone intends to challenge the validity of a Will or disputes who should be administering the estate. While lodging a caveat can provide essential breathing space to investigate or prepare a claim, it should only be used in appropriate circumstances, as it can cause delays and trigger cost consequences. Whether you are considering entering a caveat or responding to one, we can advise you on the best course of action.
• Will interpretation disputes: Sometimes, the wording of a Will is ambiguous or leads to disagreement about what the deceased intended. These disputes may involve family members, executors, or even charities where the gift is unclear. The court has power to determine the correct legal meaning of the Will, but interpretation claims can often be resolved out of court with the right legal input. We work with clients to clarify the Will’s meaning and resolve disputes in a way that honours the intentions of the deceased as far as possible.