Expert Legal Support for Will Disputes
Specialist contentious probate solicitor providing clear, strategic advice when estates and inheritances are in dispute. Straightforward guidance through complex legal challenges.
Do I Have Grounds?
Select the situation that best describes your circumstances to understand whether you may have a legal claim.
How It Works
From first conversation to resolution, every step is clear and transparent.
Free Initial Discussion
Book a no-obligation consultation to discuss your situation. Matt will listen carefully and give an honest assessment of your position.
Case Assessment
A thorough review of the facts, documents, and legal merits. You'll receive a clear, written assessment of your claim and options.
Strategy & Action
A tailored legal strategy is developed. Whether through negotiation, mediation, or court proceedings, every step is planned and transparent.
Resolution
Working towards the best possible outcome. Most cases settle through negotiation or mediation, avoiding the need for a full trial.
Meet Your Lawyer
Matt Smith — Contentious Probate Specialist
Matt helps people who feel hard done by when it comes to wills, estates, and inheritance. Whether you're an unmarried partner who's been left out of a will, an adult child who received only a token gift, or you're dealing with a rogue executor, Matt provides clear, practical legal advice.
From secret lovers contesting estates to families torn apart by disputed wills, Matt has seen it all—and handled it with discretion, empathy, and strategic precision.
As a specialist contentious probate solicitor, Matt focuses exclusively on this area of law, bringing deep expertise and a track record of results that general practitioners simply cannot match.
Costs & Funding
Legal costs should never be a mystery. Matt believes in complete transparency about how fees are structured and what options are available.
Fixed Fee Initial Assessment
Your first consultation and case assessment at a clear, agreed fee. No surprises, no hidden charges.
Hourly Rate Work
For ongoing litigation and advisory work, transparent hourly rates with regular billing updates so you always know where you stand.
Negotiated Settlements
Most contentious probate cases settle before trial. This often keeps costs proportionate to the sums at stake.
Litigation Funding
In appropriate cases, third-party litigation funding or "after the event" insurance may be available to help manage risk.
Every case is different. Costs depend on complexity, the sums at stake, and whether matters settle early or proceed to a hearing. Matt will give you a realistic estimate before any work begins.
Case Studies
Real examples of how Matt has helped clients navigate contentious probate disputes. All details are anonymised to protect client confidentiality.
Unmarried Partner Left Without Provision
An unmarried partner of 15 years was left nothing in their partner's will. The estate passed entirely to adult children from a previous marriage. A claim under the 1975 Act resulted in a substantial settlement recognising the partner's contributions to the relationship.
Challenging a Will Made Under Undue Influence
A family suspected that their elderly parent's will had been changed under pressure from a carer. Evidence gathering and expert analysis led to the will being set aside, with the estate distributed under the earlier, legitimate will.
Removing a Rogue Executor
An executor was unreasonably delaying estate administration and refusing to provide accounts. Court proceedings resulted in their removal and replacement, allowing the estate to be properly administered and distributed to beneficiaries.
Navigating a Complex Intestacy
When a family member died without a will, multiple relatives made competing claims. Through skilled negotiation and mediation, a fair settlement was achieved without the need for court proceedings.
What Clients Say
“Exceptional Litigation Support – Professional, Strategic and Truly Supportive”
— Shirley
Latest Thinking
Matt regularly shares insights and analysis on contentious probate matters.
Wills: Why Does a Mother-in-Law Always Have the Last Word?
Discusses disputes that commonly arise after a mother-in-law's death concerning wills, including mental capacity, undue influence, and claims under the Inheritance Act 1975.
Farmers: Keep It in the Family: Mediate, Don't Litigate!
Addresses agricultural property relief and family disputes in farming contexts. Advocates for mediation over litigation.
STOP PRESS: Fighting Over a Will Is So Much More Affordable!
Highlights the increasing number of disputes within the end of life industry and discusses how will disputes have become more affordable.
An Undignified Send-Off: How to Handle a Dispute Over Funeral Arrangements
Explores disputes over funeral arrangements — a less commonly discussed but important area of contentious probate.
Can You Trust Tech with Your Legacy? The Pros and Cons of AI Will Writing
Examines the advantages and disadvantages of AI-generated wills compared to professionally drafted ones.
Defending a Contested Will – A Brief Look
Provides an overview of defending a will that has been contested and the legal strategies available.