Will Claims - Cartmell Shepherd Solicitors

16/06/2026

A Simple Wording Mistake Led to A High Court Dispute...

A recent High Court case has shown how unclear wording in a Will can lead to significant legal uncertainty and disputes.

In Wilkinson v Kirkham, the Will referred to “the daughter of Lily Mason” if the original beneficiary died first. However, when that happened, there was more than one daughter, leaving it unclear who should inherit.

The Court ultimately decided that both daughters should benefit and divided the estate equally, taking into account what an ordinary person would likely have intended.

In our latest article, Rebecca Armstrong, Head of Will and Inheritance Disputes, explains the case and highlights the risks of vague or ambiguous wording when making a Will.

You can access the full article here:
https://loom.ly/1vg76Ew

For advice on Wills or inheritance disputes, please contact Rebecca on 01228 516666.

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.