New figures show that disputes relating to wills and estates remain at historically high levels. During 2025, the England and Wales High Court heard 126 contested probate cases, matching the elevated levels recorded in the previous year.
Data obtained by law firm Irwin Mitchell also revealed that probate caveat applications reached 11,328 in 2025, representing an increase of approximately 55% compared with 2019.
Legal experts report growing numbers of beneficiaries and family members taking early legal action to pause estate administration while concerns about the validity of a will or the conduct of executors are investigated.
The trend highlights the increasing importance of careful estate planning and clear documentation to minimise the risk of disputes.
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