When estate matters need legal intervention, we are here to help.

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While many estate matters proceed without issue, some situations require the formal intervention of the Royal Court of Jersey. Whether you need to prevent a probate application, correct a mistake in a Will, or vary the distribution of an estate we provide clear and practical support at every stage.

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Our Expertise

At BCR, our team of experts act for executors, beneficiaries, and concerned family members in a range of probate-related court applications. We approach each matter with sensitivity to account for family dynamics and a practical understanding of client’s needs during what is often a stressful time.

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Our Approach

We understand that these matters often involve grief and personal relationships. We work compassionately and with a commitment to resolving matters as constructively as possible.

Caveats – Preventing a Probate Application

A caveat is a formal notice lodged with the Jersey Royal Court to prevent a grant of probate or grant of administration from being issued. It is often used where there is concern about the validity of a Will or the entitlement of the person applying for the grant.

Common reasons for lodging a caveat include:

• Disputes about whether the deceased had capacity at the time of making the Will.
• Allegations of undue influence or coercion.
• Claims that the Will was not properly executed.
• Situations where a later Will may exist.

Lodging a caveat effectively puts probate on hold. This allows time for further investigation and, if necessary, the bringing of formal court proceedings.

Our team advises both potential challengers and executors on how to navigate caveats, including whether to lodge one or how to respond to one that has been lodged against an estate they are managing.

Other Probate-Related Court Applications

In addition to caveats, our team regularly deals with a variety of other probate-related court applications, including:

• Rectification of Wills (fixing the wording of a will due to mistake).
• Variation of Wills and Intestacy distributions.
• Applications to remove or replace executors.
• Applications for directions of the Court.
• Approval of transactions or distributions.

Our experience across these areas allows us to act quickly and effectively, often resolving matters without the need for further Court intervention.

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Our Values in Action

Excellence: In our legal advice and the quality of our court submissions.

‍Delivery: We move cases forward efficiently and proactively.

‍Respect: For the deceased’s wishes, the rights of beneficiaries and the needs of families.

‍Elegance: In our communication and conduct.

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Why BCR Law

We combine expert legal strategy with sensitivity to family dynamics, guiding clients through complex probate matters with professionalism and empathy.