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Trust disputes
Trust disputes can quickly become complex, emotionally charged, and financially significant - especially when communication breaks down between trustees and beneficiaries.
Whether you're a beneficiary concerned about how trust assets are being managed or a trustee facing a legal challenge, our specialist trust dispute solicitors can help you navigate the process with clarity and confidence.
At Wright Hassall, our team advises on all types of contentious trust matters. We act for individuals, professional trustees, executors, and beneficiaries - always with the goal of finding practical solutions, avoiding unnecessary court proceedings, and minimising family tension where possible.
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What is a Trust dispute?
A Trust dispute is a legal disagreement relating to the creation, interpretation, or administration of a Trust. These disputes typically arise when a beneficiary, trustee, or other interested party believes that the Trust is not being properly managed or that their rights are being infringed.
With Trust assets often of significant value, including property, investments, or business interests, it’s essential to seek expert legal advice early on.
How we can help with Trust disputes
At Wright Hassall, we specialise in resolving high-value, complex Trust disputes. Our team of experienced Trust dispute solicitors provides strategic advice and practical solutions tailored to your situation whether you're a beneficiary, trustee, or professional adviser.
We regularly advise on disputes involving:
- Breach of Trust claims: where trustees have failed in their legal duties or acted against the interests of beneficiaries
- Trustee removal applications: due to misconduct, conflict of interest, incapacity, or a breakdown in relations
- Disputes between beneficiaries: such as disagreements over entitlements, distributions, or use of Trust assets
- Disagreements between co-trustees: including administrative deadlock or conflicting decision-making
- Challenges to the validity of a Trust: often based on undue influence, fraud, or lack of mental capacity
- Disputes over Trust interpretation: where the wording of the Trust is unclear or open to dispute
- Allegations of fraud or dishonest conduct
- Claims involving business assets or multi-generational wealth structures
We can also support with cross-border Trust disputes which involve assets or trustees in multiple jurisdictions.
We understand the financial and emotional complexity of these disputes and will guide you through every stage, from early risk assessment and negotiation through to mediation or litigation where needed.
Our aim is to protect your interests and reach a resolution efficiently, minimising cost and disruption wherever possible.
Grounds for removing a trustee
Beneficiaries or co-trustees may seek to remove a trustee if there is evidence of:
- Breach of trust or of fiduciary duty
- Failure to act in accordance with the Trust deed
- Conflict of interest or self-dealing
- Incapacity or failure to act
- A breakdown in relations preventing effective Trust administration
We can advise you on informal removal routes and formal court applications.
Defending a Trust dispute
Trustees and professionals can find themselves facing allegations despite acting in good faith.
If you're a trustee being challenged, we can help you:
- Respond to claims of Breach of Trust or mismanagement
- Defend applications for your removal
- Manage relations with difficult beneficiaries
- Apply to the court for directions if needed
We understand the pressures you face and provide robust legal support to safeguard your position.
Costs and funding options
The costs involved depend on the complexity of the dispute, the amount of work required, and whether the matter is resolved early or proceeds to court.
There are several funding methods available depending on your circumstances, including:
- Legal Expenses Insurance
- Conditional Fee Agreements (“no win, no fee”)
- Deferred payment arrangements until the conclusion of the matter
- Private monthly billing
We fully appreciate that costs are a significant consideration which is why we carefully explore funding options with you at the start, ensuring clarity about the likely costs and your planned course of action.
Trust disputes can be difficult, stressful, and emotional. Our role is to help ease that burden by guiding you toward the best and most timely solution.
Why choose Wright Hassall?
Wright Hassall is ranked in Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners High Net Worth. Our trust dispute solicitors have a strong reputation for advising on high-value, sensitive cases involving complex legal and financial issues.
Clients choose us for:
- Proven experience in high-net-worth Trust disputes
- Practical, commercially focused advice
- Clear communication and strategic planning
- A discreet, supportive approach during stressful situations
FAQs
- Are there time limits for bringing a Trust dispute?
- How can I remove a trustee?
- Who can bring a Trust claim?
- Can I challenge how the Trust is being managed?
- Do I need to go to court to resolve a Trust dispute?
- How long do Trust disputes take to resolve?
- What if the Trust was created under pressure or without proper understanding?
Martin Oliver
Martin specialises in inheritance disputes such as contesting a will and litigation involving wills and trusts.
"Provided very efficient service, kept us informed all the way. Explained everything. Conducted themselves in a friendly, efficient, professional manner."