Wills & Trusts Disputes

“They have a unique understanding of the needs of charities; not just the legal aspect but also how Trustees need to be advised – their written and verbal advice reflects this. They manage to home in on the critical points of a case, advise accordingly and ensure that all points are covered.”

Legal 500, 2024

“An ongoing development of excellent service for charities covering all areas and ensuring advice covers all areas of charity law and governance and compliance. Their complete package for charity clients is superb.”

Legal 500, 2024

“Excellent guidance and advice in respect of contentious matters and the needs of the charities and its trustees.”

Legal 500, 2024

“This is a team with all the expertise and experience of a London firm. The lawyers are experienced and clever and have real expertise in the area.”

Legal 500, 2024

Pragmatic, expert guidance

The members of our specialist team are widely recognised as leaders in this field, offering strength in depth and a truly bespoke approach for clients facing difficulties of any kind concerning an estate or a trust, whether in this country or offshore.


A seamless service

Our best work is confidential, as we resolve the vast majority of our cases without the expense or risk of a court hearing.

In cases where this has not been possible, we have a proven track record and are at the cutting edge of the developing law.  Examples of cases we have handled include:
 

Ilott v Blue Cross & Ors The Supreme Court's first ever ruling on claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975, where we acted for the successful appellant charities.
King v Dubrey The leading case on gifts made in contemplation of death (donations mortis causa) where we acted for the successful appellants.
Rubin v Eurofinance The Supreme Court's leading decision on the common law rules regarding enforcement of foreign bankruptcy orders.  We acted for the successful intervener.
RNLI v Headley Provides clear guidance on the requirement for trustees to provide accounts to beneficiaries, where we acted for the successful applicants.
Kell v Jones Provides clear guidance on when a solicitor's mistake in drafting a will can be fixed by rectification, and when the solicitor must pay damages to remedy the problem.  We acted for the successful defendants.

Working for individuals, professionals and charities, we liaise closely with our colleagues in our Tax & TrustsLanded & Historic Estates and Probate teams to provide a complete and seamless service.