Leathes Prior’s Probate Disputes Team secures client £1.6 million settlement

In a recent case headed by Darren Bowen a Partner in our Probate Disputes Team, a widow made a claim against her late husband’s Estate following his failure to make adequate financial provision for her in his Will. Her claim was under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975 but included complex partnership claims within the context of a family farming partnership.

Before Leathes Prior was instructed, the executors and a surviving partner in the farming partnership had offered the claimant £30,000 in full and final settlement of her claim(s) including her interest in the partnership.

The team advised the claimant against accepting the offer made and the sum was subsequently rejected by the claimant. The team valued the claimant’s claim at approximately £1.5 million and ultimately proceedings were issued in the High Court.

The claim subsequently settled before the final hearing on the basis that the claimant receives £1.6 million in settlement of her claims. The claimant has recovered her costs from the Estate.

If you have any questions about Will disputes or claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975, please contact our specialist team on 01603 610911.