Forbes Solicitors

Contentious Trusts and Probate

John initially trained as a teacher and taught law to students at A-level and degree before he qualified as a solicitor in 2000. John joined Forbes Solicitors in December 2020 as a Senior Associate and now co-leads the firm’s Contentious Trusts and Probate (CTP) team alongside Tom Howcroft. Qualifying in 2000, he brings more than 25 years’ litigation experience, with over a decade spent in high-value contentious trusts and probate work. He completed the ACTAPS qualification in 2019.

His practice encompasses the full spectrum of high-value probate litigation, including:

• Proprietary estoppel
• Statutory wills and contested deputyship applications
• Deathbed gift disputes
• Complex validity challenges
• Claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975
• Estate and trust disputes involving high-net-worth individuals and substantial asset bases

The cases accompanying this submission illustrate his involvement in some of the department’s most complex and strategically demanding matters.

Clients consistently praise John for his accessibility, clarity of communication and ability to manage complex disputes to conclusion with minimal stress. His service commitment includes:

• Fast, proactive communication
• Clear advice grounded in experience
• Strong momentum on cases
• Flexible pricing options, including regular use of no-win-no-fee arrangements

John is a highly respected specialist in contentious trusts and probate, known for his technical proficiency, strong litigation instincts, and leadership impact.  Alongside Tom Howcroft, he has played a key role in shaping the department into a high-performing, specialist practice equipped for further growth and increased market prominence.