What can I do if the executor is not communicating with me?

If you suspect an executor is not communicating or failing to provide a beneficiary account, you may have grounds to challenge their actions. Executor accountability is a key area of concern for beneficiaries. You should seek specialist legal advice to address these issues, as the text notes that such matters often require professional input to resolve effectively.

Can I challenge a will if I think the person lacked capacity or was influenced?

Yes, a will can be contested on the basis that the testator lacked mental capacity or was subject to undue influence. These are specific grounds for challenging a will. However, the text emphasises that such claims rarely succeed without specialist input and advises instructing a contentious probate solicitor immediately to handle the process.

Is there a time limit for making a financial provision claim against an estate?

There is a strict six-month deadline from the grant of representation to bring a claim under the Inheritance Act 1975 for financial provision. This time limit applies equally to will contests. Because these claims rarely succeed without specialist input, the text strongly advises instructing a contentious probate solicitor immediately to ensure the deadline is met.

What should I do if I suspect probate fraud?

The text identifies suspect probate fraud as a significant concern for beneficiaries. If you believe fraud has occurred, it is critical to act quickly. The general advice for contentious probate matters, including fraud suspicions, is to instruct a specialist solicitor immediately, as these complex legal issues rarely succeed without professional support.

Do I have a right to see an account of the estate?

Beneficiaries have specific rights regarding executor accountability, including the right to receive a beneficiary account. If this account is not provided, it may indicate a breach of the executor’s duties. The text suggests that such disputes fall under the broader category of contentious probate matters, where specialist legal advice is recommended to protect your interests.

All Situations

For Beneficiaries

Rights as a beneficiary, contested wills, Inheritance Act claims, and executor accountability.

Reviewed 2026-05-22

Common Problems

Executor not communicating

Contesting a will (lack of capacity, undue influence)

Inheritance Act 1975 claim — financial provision

Beneficiary account not provided

Suspect probate fraud

Frequently asked questions

What can I do if the executor is not communicating with me?: If you suspect an executor is not communicating or failing to provide a beneficiary account, you may have grounds to challenge their actions. Executor accountability is a key area of concern for beneficiaries. You should seek specialist legal advice to address these issues, as the text notes that such matters often require professional input to resolve effectively.
Can I challenge a will if I think the person lacked capacity or was influenced?: Yes, a will can be contested on the basis that the testator lacked mental capacity or was subject to undue influence. These are specific grounds for challenging a will. However, the text emphasises that such claims rarely succeed without specialist input and advises instructing a contentious probate solicitor immediately to handle the process.
Is there a time limit for making a financial provision claim against an estate?: There is a strict six-month deadline from the grant of representation to bring a claim under the Inheritance Act 1975 for financial provision. This time limit applies equally to will contests. Because these claims rarely succeed without specialist input, the text strongly advises instructing a contentious probate solicitor immediately to ensure the deadline is met.
What should I do if I suspect probate fraud?: The text identifies suspect probate fraud as a significant concern for beneficiaries. If you believe fraud has occurred, it is critical to act quickly. The general advice for contentious probate matters, including fraud suspicions, is to instruct a specialist solicitor immediately, as these complex legal issues rarely succeed without professional support.
Do I have a right to see an account of the estate?: Beneficiaries have specific rights regarding executor accountability, including the right to receive a beneficiary account. If this account is not provided, it may indicate a breach of the executor’s duties. The text suggests that such disputes fall under the broader category of contentious probate matters, where specialist legal advice is recommended to protect your interests.

When to Get Legal Advice

Will contests and Inheritance Act 1975 claims have a strict 6-month deadline from the grant of representation. Instruct a contentious probate solicitor immediately — these claims rarely succeed without specialist input.