Contested Probate & Will Dispute Solicitors in Harrow
Disagreements over an estate are difficult because they involve family. Kenton Solicitors advises people who believe a will does not reflect what was intended, who have been left out when they expected provision, or who are dealing with an estate that is not being administered properly.
We act for those bringing a claim and for executors and beneficiaries defending one. Our aim throughout is to resolve matters as sensibly as possible, and we will always tell you honestly how we see your position.
Time limits apply to some claims, so it is worth taking advice early. Appointments are available at our Kenton Road office in person, by telephone, or by video call, Monday to Saturday.
Free Consultation — 020 8907 2444Our Will Dispute Services
We advise on the full range of disagreements that arise around wills and estates, acting for claimants and for those defending.
Challenging the Validity of a Will
Where there are concerns about whether a will was properly made — including whether the person understood what they were signing, or whether they were pressured into it.
Claims for Financial Provision
Certain family members and dependants can bring a claim where a will, or the position where there is no will, leaves them without reasonable provision. Strict time limits apply.
Defending an Estate
Where you are an executor or beneficiary facing a claim, we advise on the strength of it and represent the estate's position throughout.
Disputes With Executors
Where beneficiaries are not being kept informed, the administration has stalled, or there are concerns about how an executor is handling the estate.
Disputes Over Property
Where someone says they were promised a property, contributed towards it, or has a share that the will does not recognise.
Protecting Your Position
Where you need to prevent an estate being distributed while matters are looked into, steps can be taken to hold the position. We advise on this urgently where needed.
How a Dispute Is Resolved
Most disputes are settled without a court hearing. Here is how matters usually progress.
Free Consultation
We listen to what has happened, look at the will and any documents you have, and give you an honest view of where you stand.
Gathering Information
We obtain the will file, medical records, and other evidence needed to understand the circumstances in which the will was made.
Negotiation
We put your position to the other side and work towards a settlement, often through mediation. Most matters are resolved at this stage.
Court Proceedings
Where settlement is not possible, we advise on issuing proceedings and represent you through to a hearing.
What to Think About First
These disputes are between people who are usually related to one another, often while everyone is still grieving. That makes them different from other disagreements, and it shapes how we approach them.
We will give you a straight answer about whether you have a case worth pursuing. Sometimes the honest advice is that a claim is unlikely to succeed, or that what could be recovered would not justify the disruption. We would rather tell you that at the first meeting than months later.
Where there is a case, we pursue it properly — but with settlement as the goal wherever it can be reached, so that relationships within the family have some chance of surviving.
Speak to a SolicitorAct Early
Some claims must be brought within a set period of the grant being issued. Once an estate has been distributed, recovering anything becomes considerably harder. Early advice keeps your options open.
Evidence Matters
Outcomes turn on what can be shown — the will file, medical records, correspondence, and what witnesses recall. We gather this before forming a view on your prospects.
Settlement Is Usual
The large majority of these disputes are resolved by agreement rather than at a hearing. Mediation is often effective, and we will always explore it.
Being Unhappy Is Not Enough
A will that seems unfair is not necessarily one that can be challenged. People are generally free to leave their estate as they choose. There has to be a recognised basis for a claim, and we will tell you if there is not.
People We Advise
Left Out of a Will
Those who expected to be provided for and were not, particularly where they were financially dependent on the person who died.
Concerns About a Late Will
Where a will was changed shortly before death, or in circumstances that raise questions about whether it reflects the person's own wishes.
Unmarried Partners
Partners who were not married and do not automatically inherit, but who shared a home and a life with the person who died.
Executors Facing a Claim
Executors who need to respond to a claim against the estate and want to deal with it properly on behalf of the beneficiaries.
Beneficiaries Being Kept in the Dark
Those entitled to a share who cannot get information, or where the administration appears to have stalled with no explanation.
Adult Children
Sons and daughters who have been excluded or treated very differently from siblings, and want to understand where they stand.
Contested Probate Solicitors Serving Harrow
We advise families across Harrow and the surrounding areas of north-west London on disputes over wills and estates. Many enquiries come from people who are unsure whether they even have a case — that first conversation costs nothing and often provides real clarity.
These matters are easier to talk through in person. You can come into the office, bring whatever documents you have, and go through it properly.
Get in Touch
Time limits apply to some claims. If you have concerns about a will or an estate, contact our team for a free initial consultation.
020 8907 2444or email info@kentonsolicitors.co.uk
Opening Hours
Monday – Friday: 10am – 6pm
Saturday: 10am – 6pm
Walk-ins welcome. Telephone and video appointments available.
Contested Probate FAQs
Concerns About a Will or an Estate?
Free initial consultation. SRA regulated. Based in Harrow.
