Nick Blake

Trusts & Probate

Nick is regularly instructed on a broad range of probate disputes, including challenges to the validity of wills, and to the disposition of the deceased’s estate by claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975.

He regularly acts on contentious and non-contentious matters relating to the administration of estates.

Recent cases include:

In the Estate of S

Advised and represented the Defendant PR and sole beneficiary in proceedings in the Family Division for removal of a Caveat, and in later proceedings in the Chancery Division in proceedings brought by the deceased’s adult children challenging the will, alleging fraud, undue influence, lack of testamentary capacity and want of knowledge and approval.

In the Estate of B

Advised and represented the Claimant co-habitant of the deceased at the 3 day trial of his claim for reasonable financial provision, pursuant to s.1 of the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependents) Act 1975 following the death of the deceased intestate.

In the Estate of O

Drafted Part 8 proceedings under s.50 Administration of Justice Act 1985, for removal and replacement of beneficiary PR’s and will trustees, who were acting in a conflict of interest, and appeared at Court in those proceedings on behalf of the Claimant beneficiary.

In the Estate of A

Advised and represented the Defendant PR and beneficiary at a 5 day trial of a claim brought against her by her siblings, all adult children of the deceased, alleging failure of the will to make reasonable financial provision for them pursuant to s.1 of the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependents) Act 1975 .

In the Estate of C

Represented the adult children of the deceased, who died intestate whilst living abroad, at the trial of claims for reasonable financial provision, pursuant to s.1 of the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependents) Act 1975 brought by an alleged cohabitee and the deceased’s infant son. Issues included domicile and jurisdiction.