Recent statistics have shown that the number of inheritance dispute that were heard in the High Court has increased significantly from 227 in 2018 to 368 in 2019.

Our contentious probate solicitors say that this sharp increase is partly due to the increased use of DIY wills.  The growth in inheritance disputes is also attributable to the rise in complex family structures such as second marriages and stepchildren.

Often DIY wills contain drafting errors and in some cases, they are not executed correctly which can lead to an outcome that the testator did not intend. That in turn can result in a will dispute or an inheritance dispute. In some cases, errors in a will can cause problems with the probate administration.

Many people believe that because their finances are straight forward, a solicitor is not required. More and more people are reluctant to take legal advice regarding the drafting of their will or are looking to save the costs of having a professional will prepared.

Whilst DIY wills are certainly the cheaper option, the cost savings with a DIY will are, in many cases, short-lived. In the event of a will dispute, the family left behind then have to contend with a will dispute or inheritance dispute and these disputes are often time-consuming and extremely costly. 

By instructing an experienced solicitor to prepare your will, this provides some peace of mind and the risk of a will dispute, probate dispute or inheritance dispute are usually reduced.

If you have concerns regarding a DIY will or if you are in a position where you wish to discuss a will dispute, probate dispute or inheritance dispute, speak to our specialist will disputes solicitors on 01384 410410. Alternatively, you can e-mail us at contentiousprobate@georgegreen.co.uk providing a brief summary of the issues you wish to discuss with us, along with your contact details and we will contact you if we think we may be able to help.