Contested Probate? We Connect You to the Right Specialist – Mediation First, Litigation Only if Needed.
Facing a contested will, unfair inheritance, or family probate disputes? My Contested Probate links you to specialist UK solicitors who focus on mediation first — saving time, money, and emotional strain. Court action as last resort.
Contested Probate? We Connect You to the Right Specialist – Mediation First, Litigation Only if Needed.
Facing a contested will, unfair inheritance, or family probate disputes? My Contested Probate links you to specialist UK solicitors who focus on mediation first — saving time, money, and emotional strain. Court action as last resort.
Why Start with Mediation? The Smarter, Kinder Way Forward
In the UK, courts strongly encourage mediation in contentious probate cases (and can penalise unreasonable refusal with adverse costs orders). Mediation works particularly well here because these disputes are often deeply personal, involving grief, family dynamics, and perceived unfairness.
Key benefits of our mediation-first approach
Much Lower Costs
Mediation is typically far cheaper than court proceedings, preserving more of the estate for beneficiaries rather than depleting it on legal fees.
Faster Resolution
Many cases settle in weeks or months, not years—allowing quicker access to inheritances and closure.
Confidential & Private
Unlike public court battles, mediation keeps everything confidential, protecting family privacy.
Preserves Relationships
A neutral mediator facilitates open, constructive discussions—helping families find practical compromises without winners and losers.
Flexible Outcomes
Parties control the agreement, crafting creative solutions that courts might not allow (e.g., tailored distributions or non-financial terms).
High Success Rate
Mediation resolves the vast majority of contentious probate disputes (often 70-90%+ success in similar cases), avoiding the stress of trial.
The UK Contested Probate Issues We Help With
Invalid or Improperly Executed
Wills (Wills Act 1837 issues like missing witnesses or formalities).
Lack of Testamentary Capacity
e.g., dementia or mental incapacity at signing, backed by medical evidence
Undue Influence or Coercion
Pressure from carers, partners, or family—proven via behaviour patterns and records
Lack of Knowledge and Approval
Testator didn’t fully understand/approve the will.
Fraud or Forgery
Tampered documents or fake signatures, often with forensic support
Inheritance Act 1975 Claims
For spouses, children, cohabitees (2+ years), or dependants feeling inadequately provided for—securing “reasonable financial provision”.
Executor Disputes
Mismanagement, delays, or self-interest—seeking removal or resolution.
Intestacy Disputes
No will or partial invalidity—ensuring correct statutory distribution.
Caveats to Block Probate
Filed quickly to pause grants while investigating.
Why Choose My Contested Probate?
Expert Connections
We link you directly to top UK contentious probate specialists with proven mediation success and litigation expertise.
Empathetic & Practical
We understand the heartbreak involved—our partners handle cases with compassion while protecting your interests.
Risk-Free Initial Step
No upfront commitment; start with transparent advice and funding options (including potential no-win, no-fee where suitable).
1. Can I appeal a tax assessment?
Yes. You have 30 days to appeal or request an HMRC internal review. If you still disagree, you can take the case to the independent Tax Tribunal.
2. Do I need a solicitor for a tax investigation?
In most cases, no — experienced tax investigation specialists (chartered tax advisers or accountants with deep HMRC enquiry expertise) are the ideal choice for handling the majority of investigations, including complex compliance enquiries and COP9 contract settlements.
These specialists excel in technical resolution, negotiation with HMRC, and achieving the best outcomes through voluntary disclosures and settlements.
A solicitor is typically only required if the case escalates to a criminal investigation (e.g., serious fraud allegations with potential prosecution). In those rare situations, solicitors provide legal professional privilege (protecting confidential communications from disclosure to HMRC — which accountants/advisers do not have) and full rights of audience in court.
For the best result, many cases benefit from a coordinated approach: a tax investigation specialist leading on compliance and strategy, supported by a solicitor where criminal risk emerges.
3. What is tax investigation help?
Specialist support from experienced tax investigation advisers — often chartered tax advisers, accountants, or former HMRC inspectors now in private practice — who guide you through HMRC enquiries, COP9 procedures, and voluntary disclosures.
These specialists help reduce stress, manage document requests, negotiate with HMRC, and work to minimise penalties and financial risk, often achieving the best possible outcome through compliance or settlements.
In rare cases involving potential criminal allegations, a solicitor may be involved for additional protection (e.g., legal privilege).
4. Need confidential help?
If you’ve received an HMRC letter or are worried about your tax affairs, contact us for a free, confidential, no-obligation discussion. Our team has helped hundreds of individuals and businesses achieve the best possible outcome.
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What Clients Say
“Mediation through my connected solicitor resolved our family dispute in just one session—saving thousands and keeping relationships intact.”
– Rachel P., Beneficiary
“I was dreading court, but starting with mediation led to a fair settlement quickly. Brilliant service.”
– Michael S., Claimant