Will Claims - Cartmell Shepherd Solicitors

01/06/2026

Patel v O’Sullivan: High Court Upholds Validity of Final Will…

A July 2020 Will executed just weeks before Mrs Patel’s death has been upheld by the High Court, despite a legal challenge from her daughter.

The claim argued lack of knowledge and approval, as well as undue influence, but both were ultimately rejected by the court.

In our latest article, Selina Gonzalez, Associate Solicitor in our Will Claims team, explains the court’s decision and what this case highlights about the importance of properly prepared and documented Wills.

You can access the full article here:
https://loom.ly/TcOAaKI

For advice on Will disputes or estate matters, please contact Selina on 01228 516666.

01/05/2026

23/04/2026

Increase in Caveats Highlights Need for Caution in Probate Disputes...

A recent Law Society article has highlighted a rise in the number of people entering caveats to prevent the administration of estates.

In our latest article, Selina Gonzalez, Associate Solicitor in our Will Claims team, explains what a caveat is, when it may be appropriate to use one and why caution is essential.

While caveats can be an effective tool, what starts as a £3 filing fee can quickly escalate into significant legal costs if used incorrectly.

You can read the full article here ⬇️
https://loom.ly/pxuH8_o

For advice on Contentious Probate please contact Selina on 01228 516666.

10/04/2026

Rise in Will disputes prompts warning to people in their 40s and 50s…

Contested estates are increasing, often because Wills have not been updated or because no Will has been made at all. Many people in midlife still do not have a Will in place, which can leave families facing uncertainty and disagreement at a very difficult time.

In our latest article Selina Gonzalez, Associate Solicitor in our Will Claims Team, outlines why these disputes are becoming more common and explains how keeping your Will up to date can help protect your wishes.

You can read the full article here:
https://loom.ly/Y35zcRE

If you need advice on Will disputes or any aspect of estate planning, please contact Selina on 01228 516666.

23/02/2026

A Family Fall Out, a Contested Will and a Huge Court Bill…

A recent High Court case shows how quickly disagreements over a Will can escalate and how costly the consequences can be.

In this case, a last‑minute Will leaving almost an entire estate to one child was challenged and ultimately set aside. An earlier Will was reinstated and the beneficiary was ordered to pay more than £450,000 in legal costs.

Rebecca Armstrong, Head of Will and Inheritance Disputes, explains what went wrong and how early advice or mediation could have helped avoid such an expensive outcome.

You can access the full article here ⬇️
https://loom.ly/0HcFRaM

If you need advice on Will or Inheritance Disputes, please contact Rebecca on 01228 516666.

27/01/2026

What Happens If a Beneficiary Refuses to Engage With an Estate?

When a beneficiary will not respond, estate administration can come to a standstill. Executors may be left unable to move forward and families can face long delays.
In Lowe v Daniells, the High Court confirmed that silence is not the same as giving up an inheritance. Executors must continue to act with care, but there are steps that can help an estate progress even when a beneficiary does not engage.

Rebecca Armstrong explains what the decision means and the options available to keep an estate moving safely.

Read the full article: https://loom.ly/Pfh-Yz0

02/01/2026

Cartmell Shepherd are award-winning solicitors working from offices in Carlisle, Penrith, Brampton, Cockermouth, Hexham and Haltwhistle.

16/10/2025

What happens if an unmarried person dies without a Will?

A recent survey undertaken by Will Aid has discovered that two-thirds of unmarried cohabitees don’t know what would happen to their estate if they were to die without a Will...

Read more to understand the risks and what you can do to protect your partner: https://loom.ly/9ihvR-s

For more information please contact Selina on 01228 516666.