Wills Solicitors in Buckinghamshire
Contesting a Will Solicitors in Buckinghamshire – Clear Legal Advice on Inheritance Disputes and Will Challenges
Finding out you’ve been left out of a will – or treated unfairly – can be devastating. Emotions often run high, especially when the will belongs to a close family member. If you believe a will is invalid, unfair, or was created under pressure, you may have the right to contest it.
At Davis Law, we support individuals across Buckinghamshire and the UK with sensitive but firm legal advice on contesting a will. Whether you are disputing the validity of a will or making a claim under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975, we provide expert legal support, protecting your interests at every stage.
These cases are often time-sensitive, legally complex, and emotionally difficult. You need a solicitor who understands both the law and the personal impact.
Grounds for Contesting a Will
A will can be challenged or contested for several legal reasons. As experienced will dispute solicitors, we’ll help you understand whether you have grounds to make a claim and what evidence will be required.
Common grounds for contesting a will include:
- Lack of testamentary capacity – The person making the will (the testator) did not have the mental capacity to understand what they were doing.
- Undue influence – The testator was pressured, manipulated, or coerced by someone else into changing or making a will.
- Lack of knowledge and approval – The testator didn’t understand or approve the contents of the will.
- Fraud or forgery – The will is fake or has been tampered with.
- Failure to comply with legal formalities – The will wasn’t properly signed or witnessed in accordance with UK law.
In addition to challenging the validity of a will, you may also be able to make a claim for reasonable financial provision if you were financially dependent on the deceased. This is done under the Inheritance Act 1975.
Inheritance Act Claims
If you’ve been left out of a will – or haven’t received what you reasonably expected – you may be entitled to make a claim under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975.
This type of claim doesn’t challenge the validity of the will, but instead asks the court to award you a greater share of the estate. You must be one of the eligible categories of people, such as:
- A spouse or civil partner
- A former spouse or civil partner who hasn’t remarried
- A child or stepchild
- Someone treated as a child of the family
- A cohabiting partner (minimum two years)
- Anyone financially dependent on the deceased
We will help you assess your eligibility, calculate what a reasonable provision might be, and guide you through the legal process with tact and confidence.
Time Limits for Contesting a Will
Contesting a will is a time-sensitive process. In most cases:
- Inheritance Act claims must be issued within 6 months of the grant of probate.
- Claims involving fraud or forgery may be brought later but should be made as soon as possible.
- Challenging the validity of a will is best done before probate is granted.
If you’re unsure whether you’re still within the time limit, speak to us without delay – we may still be able to help.
Why Choose Davis Law?
We understand that inheritance disputes often involve grieving families and difficult personal histories. We offer calm, realistic legal advice with a focus on resolving disputes as constructively as possible.
Our service includes:
- Reviewing the will and probate documents
- Advising on your legal rights and chances of success
- Gathering evidence and witness statements
- Negotiating with executors or other beneficiaries
- Representing you in mediation or court proceedings
- Protecting your claim before the estate is distributed
We act for both claimants and beneficiaries, including executors facing a contested will situation. Whether you’re bringing or defending a claim, our aim is to protect your legal and financial interests with sensitivity and strength.
If you’re also handling probate or estate administration, visit our Wills & Probate page for more details on how we can help.
Speak to a Wills Solicitor in Buckinghamshire Today
Your will is one of the most important legal documents you’ll ever make. Don’t leave it to chance. Whether you’re starting from scratch or need to update an existing will, our experienced solicitors are here to help.
For clear, confidential legal advice, speak to our trusted Solicitors in Buckinghamshire today, or explore our Wills, Trusts & Estates services in more detail.
01753 888 776
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FAQs – Contesting a Will
Can I contest a will if I’ve been left out?
Yes, you may be able to challenge the validity of the will or bring an Inheritance Act claim if you were financially dependent on the deceased or part of their close family.
How long does contesting a will take?
It depends on whether the claim is resolved through negotiation or goes to court. Some cases settle in a few months; others can take over a year. We aim to resolve disputes as quickly and cost-effectively as possible.
Will I have to go to court?
Not always. Many will disputes are settled through negotiation or mediation. However, we are prepared to represent you in court if a fair agreement cannot be reached.
What evidence do I need to contest a will?
This depends on the type of claim. We may need medical records, witness statements, previous wills, financial records, or expert reports. We’ll guide you through gathering the right evidence.