Estate Disputes & Family Provision Claims
When families disagree, we help bring resolution.
For over 80 years, we have helped Coffs Coast families navigate contested estates, disputed wills, and family provision claims with clarity and compassion.
Whether you are an executor defending a will or someone who believes they were unfairly excluded, we can help.
Protecting your rights
Estate disputes arise for many reasons. We regularly help when:
Someone was left out of the will and expected to be included
A family member receiving considerably less than others
Concerns of undue influence on the will-maker
Claims that the will-maker lacked mental capacity
Arguments over jointly held property or superannuation
An executor failing to fulfill their legal duties
In NSW, eligible people (such as children, stepchildren, spouses, de facto partners, or dependants) can make a claim under the Succession Act if they believe they were excluded from a will or not adequately provided for.
* We offer “no win, no fee” arrangements for Family Provision Claims and other matters if we believe your case has reasonable prospects of success.
Our “no win, no fee” policy is designed to ensure access to justice for those who may not otherwise have the means pursue it.
Our principal, Manny Wood, is an Accredited Specialist in Wills and Estates with over 20 years of experience resolving:
Contested wills
Family Provision claims
Executor misconduct
Informal will claims
Property and asset disputes
Disagreements over superannuation and life insurance
Concerns about undue influence or lack of capacity
Elder abuse and financial exploitation cases
Lost or destroyed wills
Disputes over complex estates involving rural land, trusts, or business assets
Settlement agreements and negotiated outcomes
We explain your options in simple terms, protect your legal rights, and guide you every step of the way, from early advice to court if needed.
Who we can represent
Individuals seeking a fair distribution of an estate after being left out or inadequately provided for
Executors or beneficiaries defending a valid will or family provision claim
Family members concerned about estate management or distribution
People defending or enforcing informal promises, gifts, or last wishes
Siblings, spouses, and step-relatives in blended family disputes
No win, no fee
If your claim has merit, we may be able to offer a no win, no fee arrangement
This means you do not pay legal costs unless your matter resolves in your favour.
We assess these matters on an obligation-free basis. We also offer fixed-fee consultations for estate dispute advice, and will always provide clear guidance on costs before proceeding.
Why choose TB Law
We begin by listening
Over 80 years of trusted service supporting Coffs Coast families
Led by Manny Wood, Accredited Specialist in Wills and Estates
Extensive experience with high-stakes and sensitive estate litigation
Calm, clear, and down-to-earth legal guidance
Strong track record of successful settlements and court outcomes
Focus on negotiation and resolution, using litigation only when needed
No win, no fee and fixed-fee options available for eligible claims
Home, hospital, and aged care facility visits for clients who have difficulty travelling
“Manny Wood’s services were sought to re-establish and progress communications with co-executors of our mother's will. Manny's approach was respectful and professional throughout. All executors have benefited from the outcome.”
J.F., Sawtell
ESTATE ADMINISTRATION
“The staff are friendly and have a good general knowledge of individual client matters, enabling great customer service. I have referred Manny to all my family and friends, they agree, he is great to work with.”
L.S., Mid-North Coast
“I’m so glad TB Law was recommended to me. Manny took the time to really listen and understand my situation, then offered simple, practical solutions, without judgement or unnecessary complexity.”
S.I., Coffs Harbour
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you challenge a will if you have been left out or received very little?
Yes, you can. If you are an eligible person under NSW law (e.g. a spouse, child, stepchild, or dependant), you may claim further provision. We can advise if your case has merit.
Is there a time limit to make a claim?
Yes. In NSW, Family Provision claims must generally be filed within 12 months from the date of death. Seek advice early, even if you are unsure about proceeding.
What if someone made a will under pressure or lacked capacity?
If you believe the will-maker was influenced or lacked mental capacity when the will was signed, you may be able to challenge its validity. We can investigate and advise on the most appropriate course of action.
What if the executor isn’t doing their job?
Executors have strict legal duties. If an executor is delaying the process, refusing to communicate, or mismanaging estate funds, we can take steps to protect your rights, including applying to remove them if necessary.
How much will an estate dispute cost?
We offer obligation-free initial assessments, fixed-fee consultations for advice, and no win, no fee arrangements for eligible claims. We also provide clear cost estimates and work to resolve matters before expensive court proceedings.
Do all estate disputes end up in court?
No. Most matters settle through negotiation or mediation, avoiding the stress and cost of a trial. We are here to help you reach a resolution quickly and efficiently.
Let’s discuss your options
Estate disputes can be highly emotional. Yet, with the right legal support, they do not have to be overwhelming.
We focus on resolving matters fairly and efficiently, while minimising stress and protecting relationships where possible.
We are here to help you protect your legal rights and obtain a fair resolution, whether you are considering a claim or responding to one.
Book a consultation at a time that suits you, or call us on 02 66 487 487
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