Matthew Brandis

Head of the dispute resolution practice, Matthew has built up over 26 years of experience handling a range of complex contentious trust and probate disputes for high-value individuals, in addition to advising on commercial disputes.

Highly respected for his thorough approach to cases whilst achieving significant outcomes for his clients, Matthew has adept expertise in dealing with disputes and litigation arising out of the validity of testamentary documents which often end up in high court and of considerable value, disputes regarding the administration of trusts and estates, including the successful removal of trustees, and deeply technical inheritance claims that require sensitivity, commerciality and discretion.

Matthew and his team successfully supported their client in the high profile Watts v Watts case in the High Court (Chancery Division) during 2022 and 2023. Watts v Watts [2023] EWHC 679 (Ch) (03 April 2023) (bailii.org); and has subsequently successfully applied to the High Court to enforce a costs order against the Defendant.

Association of Contentious Trust and Probate Specialists (ACTAPS)

Centre for Effective Dispute Resolution (CEDR)

Jobyna Watts

Watts v Watts [2023] EWHC 679 (Ch) (03 April 2023) (bailii.org)

Matthew Brandis supported by solicitor, Imogen Pike, from B P Collins’ specialist contentious probate team, defended West End cabaret star, Jobyna Watts, against fraud allegations and misappropriated funds during her late husband’s lifetime, worth £4m.

Our role has been to defend, Mrs Watts, against serious allegations brought by her son, Carlton Watts, that she forged the signature on her late husband’s 2000 will and misappropriated funds during his lifetime.

Led by Matthew Brandis and Imogen Pike, together with counsel Matthew Tonnard, they have worked closely to achieve a hugely successful outcome for Mrs Watts at the Trial of the Preliminary Issue – held over two days, 19 October 2022 and 17 February 2023. Having heard evidence from our chosen forensic handwriting expert and our professional witness, Mrs E, who we located using a professional tracing agent, Master Clarke ruled that the 2000 Will was not a forgery (Watts v Watts [2023] EWHC 679 (Ch)).

The case has been widely reported, with the judgment highlighting the importance placed on the evidence of an attesting witness and, in addition, the extent to which an expert’s opinion withstands scrutiny in cross examination. With the forgery allegation having loomed over Mrs Watts since her husband’s death in 2008, it was highly significant for her personally to have the Court find definitively in her favour.

The work subsequently undertaken to have the remainder of the matter struck out in such short order, demonstrated Matthew’s tactical acuity as a leading individual.