Private Wealth Disputes - North West
Band 2
What the Team is Known For
The contentious trusts and probate team at Forbes advises high net worth clients on matters relating to the Inheritance Act 1975, trust disputes and financial abuse claims.

High Net Worth Guide 2026 : North West
Ranked Individuals
Provided by Forbes
Our Private Wealth Disputes team sits at the forefront of contentious trusts and probate, acting for high‑net‑worth individuals, trustees, executors and beneficiaries in the most complex and high‑value disputes nationwide. We are instructed on heavyweight Inheritance Act claims, will and trust challenges, proprietary estoppel and disputes involving agricultural estates, succession planning failures and cross‑border elements. We operate a deliberately selective model, running fewer matters with exceptional strategic control, commercial rigour and client focus. We are trusted to handle disputes where outcomes matter not just financially, but personally and across generations. This approach delivers consistently strong outcomes in disputes where the financial stakes, technical complexity and personal impact are at their highest.
Provided by Chambers
The contentious trusts and probate team at Forbes advises high net worth clients on matters relating to the Inheritance Act 1975, trust disputes and financial abuse claims.
Provided by Chambers
Forbes are helpful and clear.
Forbes offer a human understanding in complex issues.
Forbes' primary strength is client focus as a priority at every stage. The firm constantly asks itself how a particular step will assist the client. Costs are not generated unnecessarily.
Provided by Chambers
Victoria Motley advises high net worth clients on matters including wills, trusts, family investment companies and power of attorney.
Victoria inspires confidence in her knowledge and advice.
John Lambe is a well-regarded contentious trusts and probate partner at Forbes.
John is a down-to-earth litigator with keen client awareness.
John is a very good solicitor. He has always been available for advice and to discuss the case as it proceeds.
Tom Howcroft is joint head of the contentious trusts and probate team at Forbes. He leads on matters relating to the Inheritance Act 1975, will validity disputes and breaches of trust.
Tom is a truly excellent partner who is an expert in his field.
Tom is highly effective in managing clients.
Tom is a joy to deal with.
Provided by Forbes
John Lambe
Tom Howcroft
View profile of Tom HowcroftJohn Lambe
View profile of John LambeVictoria Motley
View profile of Victoria MotleyChambers is the leading data and intelligence partner for the legal sector.