Trusts & Estates Disputes

Clarity in conflict. Resolution with care.
Trust and estate disputes demand more than technical expertise – they require judgement, empathy and perspective. At Edwin Coe, we combine deep private capital experience and clear strategic thinking to help clients resolve what are often highly complex and sensitive matters with confidence and discretion.

We act for individuals, families, executors, trustees, beneficaries, protectors and other fiduciaries in disputes involving wills, estates, trusts and related assets – many of which span multiple jurisdictions. Our approach is measured, pragmatic and personal: we protect our clients’ interests while recognising the emotional and relational dynamics that often shape these disputes.

 

Whether the issue concerns the validity of a will, the management of a trust, or the administration of a cross-border estate, we provide advice that is calm, decisive and focused on achieving lasting resolution.

 

A joined-up view 

 

Working closely with our leading private client, tax and litigation teams, we provide an integrated, holistic service that addresses every legal, financial and practical dimension of a case.

 

Our lawyers are experienced in disputes involving international wealth structures, offshore trusts and complex family arrangements. We regularly assist in mediations and cross-border negotiations, helping clients find constructive outcomes that preserve both relationships and reputations.

 

We also represent clients before the English courts in high-value and high-profile matters – from claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975 and breach-of-trust cases, to disputes involving allegations of fraud, undue influence or professional negligence.

 

Quiet strength. Lasting results. 

 

Our team is known for its discretion, strategic acumen and personal touch. We act for high- and ultra-high-net-worth individuals, trustees, family offices and wealth managers, often in cases involving significant estates, cross-border assets and sensitive family issues.

 

While we are adept at litigating complex disputes, we are equally focused on preventing them. We frequently advise at early stages to identify risk and defuse conflict before it escalates. Where litigation is unavoidable, we deploy decisive and proportionate strategies – combining commercial realism with a deep understanding of the human factors at play.

 

Our lawyers are active members of leading professional organisations, including STEP and ACTAPS, and are recognised for their expertise in both contentious and non-contentious private wealth matters.

As a certified B Corporation, we are committed to acting with integrity and care – resolving sensitive disputes responsibly and with respect for the people and relationships involved.

 

Three-dimensional advice 

 

We bring together private client and private wealth insight, litigation expertise and cross-border experience to achieve clarity in the most complex trust and estate disputes. Our role is not only to resolve the issue, but to help our clients rebuild confidence for the future.

 

Collaborative in approach. Committed in purpose. Connected where it matters most.

What we do best:
  • Trust & Estate Disputes

    Resolving complex domestic and international disputes involving trusts, estates and cross-border assets.

  • Will Challenges & Inheritance Claims

    Acting in disputes concerning capacity, undue influence, lack of knowledge and approval, and claims under the Inheritance Act 1975.

  • Trustee & Fiduciary Representation

    Advising on duties, breaches of trust, professional negligence and trust administration disputes.

  • Cross-Border & Offshore

    Coordinating multi-jurisdictional disputes involving offshore trustees, complex tax structures and asset recovery.

  • Court of Protection

    Advising on capacity issues, deputyship disputes and welfare-related proceedings.

  • Alternative Dispute Resolution

    Using negotiation, mediation and private settlement to resolve matters swiftly and discreetly.

Contact our team