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Contentious Probate  Mediation 

Helping families resolve inheritance disputes without the cost and strain of court 

Specialist mediation for will disputes, executor issues and Inheritance Act claims — particularly where relationships have broken down or positions have become entrenched. 

If you would like to discuss whether mediation may assist in a particular case, you are very welcome to get in touch for an informal, no-obligation conversation.

Philip Hesketh Mellor pic

Phil Hesketh

Specialist Mediator in contentious probate disputes

I have spent over 30 years helping people resolve complex legal disputes — first as a litigation solicitor, and now as a full-time mediator. 

I specialise in contentious probate matters, including:

  • Disputed wills
  • Claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975
  • Executor and trustee disputes
  • Family conflicts arising from inheritance 

These cases are often as much about relationships as they are about legal rights. My role is to create a calm, structured environment where parties can move beyond entrenched positions and work towards a practical resolution. 

Mediation can be effective both early in a dispute and once proceedings are underway.

Trusted by solicitors and their clients

"Professional, down to earth, friendly, flexible, client focussed, practical, “reads the room well”, excellent grasp of the issues. I have instructed Phil several times before and have found him to be an excellent mediator for all of the reasons described above. Would always want him as first choice going forward."
Shantala Carr, Partner Girlings Solicitors

"Phil was brilliant with the Claimant, a litigant in person with Autism. I feared communication would be a barrier to resolution but with Phil's assistance, the parties were able to come together to reach a resolution that I am certain would not have been reached without him."
Bryony Steele, DAC Beachcroft

If you would like to discuss whether mediation may assist in a particular case, you are very welcome to get in touch for an informal, no-obligation conversation.

ONLINE MEDIATION

Mediate from the comfort of your own home.

You can join a mediation using a video call saving you travelling time and expense.

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A couple taking part in a video meeting on their sofa at home
In-person-mediation
IN person mediation

The "traditional" way to mediate.

The parties are in the same building but have their own separate rooms. They can meet together with the mediator if they chose to do so.

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The  Practical guidance and insights on resolving contentious probate disputes 

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to meet with the other side?

There are no set rules in mediation so you do not have to meet the other side if you don't want to. If you have lawyers they may discuss matters with your opponents lawyers and the mediator. The mediator will also go from room to room to help keep the negotiations moving.

Who pays for the mediation?

Usually party will pay an equal amount. In some personal injury and clinical negligence claims where liability has been admitted the defendant will often pay all the fees, 

Do I need a lawyer?

Most disputes involve complex legal or factual arguments and lawyers can provide invaluable help and advice in the process. However sometimes, for example where the estate is relatively low value, it may not be cost effective to employ lawyers. I can assist in those circumstances.