Trustee Disputes

Trustees play a central role in the management and administration of trusts, acting in accordance with legal duties and the terms of the trust deed. When trustees fail to meet these responsibilities or conflicts arise between trustees and beneficiaries, disputes can follow, sometimes leading to significant financial loss, fractured relationships, and lengthy litigation.

At Blackstone Solicitors, we provide clear, strategic advice on resolving trustee disputes across England and Wales, always with an emphasis on protecting client interests and preserving trust integrity.

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.

“Very helpful and informative, explained the whole process very well. I would highly recommend you to other people including my friends and family.”

– Wendy Walker

Common Causes of Trustee Disputes

Disputes can stem from a variety of factors, including:

Alleged breach of duty: Trustees are expected to act honestly, prudently, and solely in the best interests of beneficiaries. Accusations of mismanagement, negligence, or failure to adhere to trust terms may prompt legal action.
Lack of transparency: Failure to keep beneficiaries informed or provide accurate accounts can erode trust and trigger formal complaints.
Conflict of interest: A trustee may be perceived as favouring their own interests or those of certain beneficiaries at the expense of others.
Disagreements between trustees: Divergent opinions on asset management, investment decisions, or beneficiary entitlements can hinder effective administration.
Challenges to trustee appointment or removal: Beneficiaries may contest the suitability of a trustee or seek their removal on grounds of incapacity, misconduct, or conflict.

Left unaddressed, these issues can compromise the value of the trust and damage long-term relationships.

Legal Duties of Trustees

Trustees are bound by strict legal obligations, including:

Acting loyally and impartially
Avoiding unauthorised personal gain
Keeping trust assets separate from personal assets
Investing prudently and in line with statutory requirements
Providing accurate records and responding to beneficiary requests

Failure to observe these duties may result in personal liability, legal sanctions, or court-enforced removal.

Resolving Trustee Disputes

At Blackstone Solicitors, we guide clients through resolution options, tailored to the nature and severity of the dispute:

Legal advice and negotiation: Early legal engagement can help clarify misunderstandings and avoid escalation.
Mediation and alternative dispute resolution: A non-confrontational approach may be preferred, especially where family trusts are involved.
Court proceedings: Where misconduct is serious or resolution cannot be achieved informally, litigation may be necessary, seeking removal of trustees, compensation for losses, or directions for trust management.
Protective measures: Interim steps such as injunctions, freezing orders, or formal inquiries may be taken to safeguard assets.

We work sensitively yet assertively to uphold trust principles while protecting beneficiary rights and interests.

Avoiding Trustee Conflict

Disputes can be minimised through proactive governance and clarity:

Ensuring trust deeds are professionally drafted and regularly reviewed
Appointing trustees with appropriate expertise and integrity
Keeping thorough records of decisions and communications
Seeking legal support for complex or high-value trust arrangements

Clear communication and sound legal foundations are key to preventing misunderstandings and disputes.

Our Approach

We place huge emphasis on getting things done properly and efficiently. This is especially true when providing legal advice on trustee 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

Get in Touch

Contact us today to discuss any matter relating to trustee 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.