Independent editorial overview of the leading probate and estate law firms in London, England. This guide highlights practices with expertise in wills, probate administration, contentious probate, estate planning, inheritance disputes, and trusts. Interested in a professionally optimised subpage for your firm or as an individual lawyer, plus a trust badge if you haven’t received one? Please get in touch via our contact page.
The following London firms are recognised for their track record in probate and estate matters, client-focused service, and consistent rankings in independent directories. Each entry includes three leading lawyers and one or two authoritative references for transparency.
Top probate & estate lawyers in London
- Withers LLP London
Internationally renowned private client firm with a leading probate and estates practice, advising high-net-worth individuals and families.
Notable lawyers: Stephen Richards, Penny Sanders, Andrew Goldstone.
Sources: 1
- Farrer & Co London
Prestigious London firm with longstanding expertise in probate, trusts, and estate administration for high-profile clients.
Notable lawyers: Jeremy Gordon, Charlotte Fraser, Henry Douglas.
Sources: 2
- Mishcon de Reya LLP London
Strong private client team with expertise in contentious probate, inheritance disputes, and cross-border estate matters.
Notable lawyers: Sandra Davis, James Libson, Emma Woollcott.
Sources: 3
- Burges Salmon LLP London
National firm with a significant London presence, advising on trusts, wills, estates, and high-value probate matters.
Notable lawyers: Lucy Gill, John Barnett, Elizabeth Neale.
Sources: 4
- Russell-Cooke Solicitors London
Full-service firm with a dedicated team advising on probate, estate planning, and inheritance disputes.
Notable lawyers: Rebecca Fisher, Ann Stanyer, James Cooke.
Sources: 5
- Hunters Law LLP London
Respected private client firm with experience in estate administration, probate, and cross-border wealth matters.
Notable lawyers: Henry Hood, Richard Kershaw, Sophie Willis.
Sources: 6
- Forsters LLP London
Top-ranked private wealth firm with probate and trust expertise, regularly advising wealthy families and estates.
Notable lawyers: Patrick Harney, Caroline Harbord, John Elder.
Sources: 7
- BDB Pitmans LLP London
Strong private client offering, handling wills, probate, and contentious estate disputes.
Notable lawyers: Edward White, Anna Sutcliffe, Claire Middleton.
Sources: 8
- Penningtons Manches Cooper LLP London
Advises clients on probate, trusts, and estate litigation, including complex international estate planning.
Notable lawyers: James Stewart, Emma Taylor, Anna Worwood.
Sources: 9
- Payne Hicks Beach LLP London
High-end private client firm with a strong reputation in probate, trusts, and succession planning.
Notable lawyers: Robert Brodrick, Camille Davidson, Simon Mortimer.
Sources: 10
Frequently asked questions
What is probate
Probate is the legal process of administering a deceased person’s estate, including proving a will, paying debts, and distributing assets.
Do I need a lawyer for probate in London
While some estates can be handled personally, lawyers provide valuable expertise in complex estates, disputes, and tax matters.
What is contentious probate
Contentious probate refers to disputes over wills, inheritance, or the distribution of an estate.
How long does probate take
Simple estates may be settled in 6–12 months, but complex or contested estates may take several years.
Can probate be avoided
Some assets pass outside probate, such as joint property or trusts, but probate is often required for larger estates.
What is an executor’s role
An executor is responsible for administering the estate, ensuring debts are paid, and distributing assets according to the will.
Are inheritance disputes common
Yes, particularly in high-value estates or where family members feel unfairly treated in a will.
What taxes apply to estates in London
Inheritance tax may apply if the estate exceeds the nil-rate band, currently £325,000, with certain exemptions and reliefs.
What is estate planning
Estate planning involves structuring your affairs to manage assets during life and after death, including wills and trusts.
How do I choose a probate lawyer in London
Look for experience in estates similar to yours, directory recognition, and strong testimonials from private client work.
Endnotes
- Withers overview. Source: Withers LLP.
- Farrer & Co overview. Source: Farrer & Co.
- Mishcon de Reya overview. Source: Mishcon de Reya LLP.
- Burges Salmon overview. Source: Burges Salmon LLP.
- Russell-Cooke overview. Source: Russell-Cooke.
- Hunters overview. Source: Hunters Law.
- Forsters overview. Source: Forsters LLP.
- BDB Pitmans overview. Source: BDB Pitmans LLP.
- Penningtons Manches overview. Source: Penningtons Manches Cooper LLP.
- Payne Hicks Beach overview. Source: Payne Hicks Beach LLP.
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