Trust Disputes

Trusts are often established to safeguard assets and ensure their effective management and distribution across generations. Yet even with careful planning, disputes can arise, frequently complex and emotionally charged. Whether concerns stem from trustee conduct, beneficiary rights, or ambiguities in the trust’s terms, resolving such conflicts requires both legal rigour and tact.

At Blackstone Solicitors, we specialise in guiding clients through trust disputes with clear, practical advice and a firm grasp of the law.

At Blackstone, we always aim to provide the best service possible. Meticulous in our approach, we will make sure everything is dealt with as you wish and will keep you updated throughout the legal process, ensuring that you always know of any developments.

“Paul Donnelly was very helpful and approachable throughout the whole process, and always responded by return.”

– Mike Alderton

Common Grounds for Dispute

Trust disputes may occur for a variety of reasons, including:

Breach of fiduciary duty by trustees, such as mismanagement of trust assets or failure to act impartially
Disagreements between beneficiaries over distribution or entitlement
Unclear or outdated trust documentation, leading to conflicting interpretations
Concerns about undue influence or lack of capacity when the trust was created
Refusal by trustees to provide proper accounts or information

Such issues often touch upon sensitive family relationships, making resolution especially delicate.

Trustee Responsibilities and Accountability

Trustees have strict legal obligations, including the duty to act prudently, loyally, and in the best interests of the beneficiaries. When trustees overstep their authority or fail to fulfil their obligations, they may be removed or held personally liable.

We frequently assist:

Beneficiaries who suspect misconduct or negligence
Trustees seeking advice on their duties and risk exposure
Executors facing challenges in estates involving trust structures

Resolving a Trust Dispute

In many cases, disputes can be resolved through mediation or negotiated settlement, especially where parties are keen to avoid the costs and stress of litigation. However, where informal resolution is not possible, court intervention may be necessary.

The remedies available include:

Removal or replacement of a trustee
Reinterpretation or rectification of trust terms
An order for disclosure of trust records
Compensation for losses suffered due to breach of trust

Time limits may apply, particularly in claims involving financial loss, so prompt legal advice is crucial.

Supporting Clients Across England and Wales

Every trust dispute is unique, shaped by the structure of the trust, the assets involved, and the relationships between parties. At Blackstone Solicitors, we tailor our approach to suit your objectives, be they protective, assertive or conciliatory.

We pride ourselves on combining legal expertise with discretion, aiming to preserve dignity and relationships wherever possible. Whether you are a beneficiary seeking fairness or a trustee needing legal protection, our team is here to support you every step of the way.

Our Approach

We place huge emphasis on getting things done properly and efficiently. This is especially true when providing legal advice on trust disputes and we have vast experience of this area of law. We take all of the necessary provisions to protect you, your family and your estate ensuring they are properly set out, fulfilling every aim and objective whatever your requirements may be.

Our Services

We can provide help with a wide range of matters relating to wills and inheritance disputes, including:

Get in Touch

Contact us today to discuss any matter relating to trust disputes. We can talk about your situation in-depth and get to the bottom of what you need and how we can help. We are here to answer any questions which you have, and we aim to make everything as simple for you as possible.

Our team is approachable and professional, and we will do everything in our power to help you get the outcome you need. Call us on 0330 808 0801 or, if you would prefer us to contact you, leave your details via our online enquiry form.

We offer our services to clients in Manchester, Chester, Cheshire and throughout the rest of the UK. We also have an office in London.