Trust disputes

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