Helping Families Resolve Farm Inheritance Disputes
Farming inheritance disputes are among the most emotionally and legally complex cases. A family farm is not just land or a business – it is often a home, a legacy, and a livelihood passed down through generations. When succession planning is unclear, or promises about inheritance are not honoured, disputes can arise and put farming families and agricultural businesses at risk.
At Vault Private Client, our specialist solicitors advise clients on a wide range of farm inheritance disputes, including:
- Unfulfilled promises not recorded in a will, leading to proprietary estoppel claims.
- Farm inheritance disputes arising from intestacy or unclear wills.
- Claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975, where financial dependants seek reasonable provision.
- Disputes between farming families about how the farm should be divided or managed.
- Challenges based on undue influence or mental capacity relating to wills or succession documents.
These disputes can be particularly sensitive, as they often involve close relatives who continue to live or work on the farm. Our approach prioritises early negotiation and mediation, while providing robust representation if court proceedings become necessary.
Legal Support for Farming Families and Executors
Every farming inheritance dispute is unique, involving legal, financial, and emotional complexity. Whether you are contesting a will based on broken promises, or defending an estate against such a claim, our experienced solicitors provide tailored advice.
Key issues we regularly advise on include:
- Proprietary estoppel: where someone has worked on a farm, often unpaid, based on assurances they would inherit. If those promises are not honoured, a claim may arise.
- Executor responsibilities in farm disputes, balancing duties to beneficiaries while safeguarding the stability of the farming business.
- Succession planning failures that lead to disagreements between family members.
- Disputes over farm assets such as land, machinery, and livestock, which can complicate estate division.
We understand the importance of maintaining family relationships while protecting agricultural assets. Our farming inheritance disputes team combines expertise in contentious probate, succession law, and agricultural business to achieve fair, practical solutions.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS.
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1. What is proprietary estoppel in farming inheritance disputes?Proprietary estoppel arises when a family member or worker is promised they will inherit the farm or part of it, relies on that promise (for example, by working long hours or for little pay), and suffers detriment if the promise is not honoured. In these cases, the court can enforce the promise or award compensation.
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2. Can a farm inheritance dispute be resolved without going to court?Yes. Many disputes are settled through negotiation or mediation, which can save significant costs and help preserve family relationships. However, if agreement cannot be reached, court proceedings may be necessary to protect your rights.
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3. Who can bring a farming inheritance dispute?Commonly, disputes are brought by family members who worked on the farm or expected to inherit. Executors, trustees, and beneficiaries may also be involved if they need to defend the estate against a claim.
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4. What role does succession planning play in preventing farm disputes?Clear, written succession plans and properly drafted wills are essential to avoid disputes. Where informal arrangements or verbal promises are made, they are more vulnerable to legal challenges.
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5. What should I do if I am facing a farm inheritance dispute?Seek legal advice as early as possible. Acting quickly ensures that important evidence is preserved and that negotiations can begin before relationships deteriorate further.
THE BEST IN THE BUSINESS.
Our Private Client solicitors are highly experienced in farming inheritance disputes, combining specialist agricultural knowledge with expertise in probate and succession law. We understand the unique pressures farming families face and work to secure fair outcomes that protect both relationships and assets.
Russell Kaminski
Partner and Head of Private Client
Lucy Cresswell
Associate
Alison Rocca
Partner
Jason Stanley
Partner
Holly Greensmith
Solicitor
Mark Dawson
Chief Executive Officer
Amanda McAlister
Head of Group Consumer Brands
Because we are here to help you.
Whether you are bringing a claim or defending one, our team is here to guide you.
Please contact us today for expert advice on farming inheritance disputes, tailored to protect your family’s future and farming legacy.
"Lucy, you are literally the sweetest lady ever. Honestly. Thanks for your very swift email and for everything."
PROBATE CLIENT
