Disputes Between Trustees and Beneficiaries

Disputes between trustees and beneficiaries happen all the time. While most everyday issues can be resolved through simple mediation, more serious disputes require court involvement.

At Aristone Solicitors, our specialist lawyers can help bring your case to a prompt and amicable resolution, whether you’re a trustee or a beneficiary. Our extensive experience enables us to handle even the most complex cases with the confidence and professionalism you deserve.

Whichever side of the dispute you may be on, we’re standing by to help. Contact a member of the team at Aristone Solicitors to book your obligation-free consultation.

Why Disputes Between Trustees and Beneficiaries Occur

At any time and for almost any reason, trustees and beneficiaries can find themselves in the midst of a complex and heated disagreement. In many cases, both the trustee and the beneficiary feel they are acting appropriately, which can make it difficult to reach an amicable resolution.

Common scenarios in which trustees and beneficiaries may encounter issues include the following:

• A trustee is suspected of a fraudulent breach of trust
• A trustee acts against the best interests of the beneficiary
• The trust was set up by an individual who was not of sound mind
• The trust document is unclear or incomplete
• A trustee doesn’t administer the trust efficiently
• The beneficiary expects more than they are entitled to
• The beneficiary doesn’t understand the terms of the trust
• The trust documents do not reflect the wishes of the deceased
• The content of the document is open to interpretation
• The settlor was provided with negligent or misleading advice

The above list is far from exhaustive, but nonetheless illustrates some of the most common causes of disputes between beneficiaries and trustees. If any of the above apply or you believe you have a valid case to pursue, we’re standing by to take your call.

Contact a member of the team at Aristone Solicitors anytime for more information.

Who Can Make A Claim?

In most instances, it is the beneficiary who makes the decision to take action against a trust or trustee. Nevertheless, it is also possible for any other party to file a claim, if they believe they have just cause to do so. Examples of which include creditors and former spouses/civil partners.

For the trustee, successfully contesting a claim means obtaining expert legal support at the earliest possible juncture. The more complex and serious the issue, the greater the importance of considering your options and obligations under legal advisement.

Aristone Solicitors: Experts in Dispute Resolution

At Aristone Solicitors, we work hard to resolve as many disputes between trustees and beneficiaries as possible, without court involvement.

The process begins by carefully examining all documents and accounts relating to the trust, along with supplementary evidence concerning the deceased party and their circumstances at the time the trust was created. This will enable us to determine if you have a valid case to pursue, at which point you can decide whether or not to take things to the next stage.

For more information or to discuss the details of your case with a member of our legal team, contact Aristone Solicitors anytime.