If you are outside the UK but involved in a dispute connected to a UK will, trust or estate, the legal and practical challenges can be significantly more complex. The outcome may affect your inheritance, access to funds and how quickly assets can be transferred.
International clients often need specialist UK advice because:
UK probate and inheritance rules are different from overseas systems
Inheritance rights, will validity rules, intestacy laws and litigation procedures in England and Wales can differ substantially from those in other countries. UK legal advice is essential to understand what options are available under UK law.
Challenging a UK will requires specific legal grounds
Disputes may involve allegations such as:
- Lack of mental capacity
- Undue influence
- Fraud or forgery
- Incorrect signing or witnessing
Using the wrong approach can cause delay, increase costs or weaken your position.
Executors and trustees may control UK assets and information
Overseas beneficiaries are often disadvantaged because executors or trustees may already be managing UK bank accounts, property or investments. Early legal intervention can help protect your interests and ensure proper administration.
Cross-border estates may involve missing assets or unclear ownership
UK assets such as:
- Property
- Bank accounts
- Investments
- Business interests
- Trust structures
May require detailed investigation, valuation and evidence gathering especially where documents are incomplete or family relationships are complex.
High Net Worth Probate & Trust Disputes
We regularly advise high net worth individuals, families and beneficiaries in complex and sensitive probate and trust disputes. Many of the matters we handle involve high value UK estates, including property portfolios, substantial investments, business interests and trust structures.
Our approach is strategic, discreet and commercially focused, helping protect both wealth and long term family interests.