An estate in dispute - How the use of an Independent Administrator can be beneficial

What are the situations where the use of a Independent Administrator can be helpful?

This is likely in situations where:

• The estate is subject to claims which cause the appointed executor to become conflicted to act
• There are concerns from other executors or the beneficiaries themselves with the current executor/s acting in their role
• The executor/s themselves are subject to claims or unsuitable to act
• There is no Will and beneficiaries cannot agree who is to act
• Or simply if an estate becomes too much for the executor to handle

How we can assist when the administration of a person’s estate isn't progressing

Thackray Williams are regularly appointed as Independent Administrators to replace the executor and take over the administration. Our lawyers are very experienced in then progressing matters and overcoming any challenges presented.

We often act for clients on a wide range of estates with many years of experience in dealing with complex estate administrations subject to disputes, or where there has been a breakdown between parties.

Our approach is impartial

We act impartially to any ongoing dispute, whilst ensuring that we always act in the estate’s best interests. This allows the dispute between the executors and/or beneficiaries to progress without any delay being caused to the administration of the estate. Our neutral role will also enable us to assist the parties with any aspect of the dispute concerning the administration, whether that be the tax consequences or practical difficulties arising from any settlement reached.

Our approach is collaborative

At Thackray Williams, we have expertise in various legal specialties from corporate and commercial to residential real estate, agricultural and rural property. We are able to call upon the wealth of that knowledge to handle the administration of an estate where a variety of issues arise, whether the sale of a property, or issues regarding the deceased’s company. 

Meet your contentious probate, Wills & estate dispute lawyers

Our specialist lawyers in our estate disputes team work closely with our private client team to assist with any aspect of the administration that may require the Independent Administrators to seek advice on any litigation. 

We also regularly work with other law firms who approach us for assistance and require our services to make the administration the subject of a dispute.

Within our private client team we have experience in managing estate disputes. We understand the emotion and stress that come as a result and are, therefore, aware of the importance of ensuring a cost-efficient and practical solution to progress the administration of the estate.

When to Seek Our Assistance

If, as an executor or beneficiary, you feel that your estate may require the involvement of an Independent Administrator, our Private Client and Estate Disputes teams would be happy to advise you on the next steps.  Please call us on 020 8290 0440.