Beth King-Smith | Harrison Clark Rickerbys

A bit about me

Listening and understanding are the key to success for me, along with a focus on what matters to my client and what doesn’t. Where wills are concerned, blood isn’t always thicker than water and families can self-destruct following a death. Grieving for a loved one and warring with other family members can create a difficult and upsetting situation for everyone involved. This is especially the case in disputes in a farming context where family members are also in partnership with each other.

I focus on my clients’ objectives and take the worry and burden of litigation away from them. Whether they are executors, trustees, charities, beneficiaries or those who have been cut out of a loved one’s will, I can help.

Outside work, skiing, cycling and the outdoors are my great loves – if I’m not at work, I’m gearing up for my next challenge.

I’m a full Member of the Association of Contentious Trusts and Probate Specialists (ACTAPS).

Want to know more?

No-one ever imagines a will or inheritance dispute will wreck their families. That happens to other families, doesn’t it? No family is free of conflict and there is no such thing as a ‘normal’ family, so don’t be ashamed; I will have seen and heard worse.

Be prepared for it to get worse before it gets better. Death, money and inheritance can be an extremely toxic mix, but the one who acts the gentleman will always win.

If you have been cut out of a will, do not panic. The English legal system endeavours to help the vulnerable and meritorious. Take specialist legal advice as soon as possible.

How much will it cost?

It depends on both the approach and strategy we adopt, and those which the other side and the court take. I will always let you have costs for the next stage.

Do you think I will win?

Winning is subjective and a moveable concept – what you consider a win will change as the case progresses. I will always keep coming back to your objectives and checking in with you.

How long will it take?

Litigation can be lengthy; the answer here depends on many factors, including the stance of the other side and family relationships. I will always try to give time estimates for each stage and see court as a last resort.

Teams I work with