Contested Wills & Estates

Contested Wills & Estate Disputes – Gold Coast Legal Experts

At Robbins Watson Solicitors, we understand that disputes over a loved one’s estate can be both emotionally and legally complex. Whether you’re contesting a will, defending an estate, or involved in a related estate dispute, our experienced team offers compassionate, strategic legal guidance throughout the process.

When Can a Will Be Contested?

In Queensland, there are several grounds to challenge a will:

• Inadequate Provision – If you’ve been left out of a will or feel the provision made for you is unfair, you may be eligible to make a family provision claim.
• Lack of Testamentary Capacity – A will may be challenged if the deceased lacked mental capacity at the time it was made.
• Undue Influence or Fraud – Suspicions of manipulation, coercion, or fraudulent conduct can form the basis for a challenge.
• Improper Execution – If the will was not executed in accordance with legal requirements, its validity may be questioned.

We can assess your circumstances and advise whether you have a legal basis to contest or defend a will.

Our Estate Dispute Services

We provide expert legal services across the full range of contested wills and estate matters:

• Family Provision Claims – For eligible individuals who believe they have not received their fair entitlement.
• Challenges to Will Validity – Including undue influence, lack of capacity, and improper execution.
• Defending Executors and Administrators – Helping estate representatives navigate disputes and fulfil their duties.
• Mediation and Negotiated Resolutions – Striving to resolve conflicts cost-effectively and with minimal court involvement.
• Litigation and Court Representation – When needed, we act decisively to protect your rights through formal legal proceedings.

Other Estate Disputes We Handle

Contested wills are only part of the broader estate dispute landscape. We also act in a wide range of complex and sensitive matters, including:

• Executor Removal Applications – When executors neglect their duties, act improperly, or are in conflict with beneficiaries, we can seek their removal and replacement.
• Construction and Rectification of Wills – If a will contains unclear terms or drafting mistakes, we can apply to the court to interpret or correct the document.
• Estate Accounting and Mismanagement – Beneficiaries are entitled to transparency. We help request formal accounts or take legal action in cases of mismanagement or neglect.
• Power of Attorney Disputes & Compensation Claims – Including actions involving conflict transactions, unauthorised gifting, or financial elder abuse. We pursue compensation where loss has occurred.
• Superannuation & Life Insurance Disputes – These often fall outside the estate but can still be contested. We assist clients in challenging or defending decisions regarding who should receive these benefits.

Why Choose Robbins Watson?

• Trusted Since 1958 – Serving the Gold Coast community for over 60 years with integrity and expertise.
• Award-Winning Team – Regularly recognised in Doyle’s Guide as one of Queensland’s leading firms in both Wills & Estates Litigation and Succession Planning.
• Specialist Knowledge – Our accredited specialist in Succession Law brings deep expertise to even the most complex matters.

Get the Right Advice, Right Now

If you are facing an estate dispute or believe you have grounds to contest or defend a will, contact Robbins Watson today. We’ll guide you through your options with clarity and care.

Contact us today to get started:

• Call us on 07 5576 9999
• Book an appointment online by clicking here
• Fill out our online enquiry form by clicking here

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