Estate Litigation & Dispute Resolution
Disputing a will or defending an estate? Cohen Legal provides expert estate litigation support across Townsville, Mount Isa & North Queensland. Family provision claims, executor disputes & more.
Estate Litigation & Disputes — Clear Advice When Emotions Run High
Disputes over wills, estates, or deceased assets can be legally complex and emotionally draining. Whether you’re a beneficiary, family member, or executor, you deserve clear, respectful legal advice—and a strategy that protects your rights.
At Cohen Legal, we help clients across Townsville, Mount Isa, and North Queensland resolve estate disputes with clarity and compassion. We represent both claimants and executors, always working to minimise conflict while safeguarding the estate and its beneficiaries.
Our team understands the unique dynamics of regional families, landholding traditions, and blended family structures—and we approach each matter with discretion, empathy, and strategic focus.
“Estate litigation isn’t just about the law—it’s about people, legacy, and fairness. Our job is to bring structure and clarity to what is often a deeply emotional time.” — Sam Cohen, Principal Lawyer
Common Types of Estate Litigation
We assist clients with a wide range of estate disputes, including:
Family Provision Claims
Also known as “contesting a will,” these claims arise when someone feels they have been unfairly left out of a will or inadequately provided for. Under Queensland’s Succession Act, eligible individuals (spouses, children, dependants) may apply for further provision.
We act for both claimants seeking further provision, and executors defending the estate.
Will Disputes
Concerns around whether a will is valid due to:
• Lack of mental capacity
• Undue influence
• Fraud or forgery
• Breach of formal requirements
We help clients investigate and challenge wills that may not reflect the deceased’s true intent—or defend against unfounded challenges.
Executor & Trustee Disputes
Disagreements may arise over:
• How an executor is managing the estate
• Delays in distribution
• Conflicts of interest
• Allegations of misconduct or breach of duty
We assist both executors needing legal guidance and beneficiaries seeking to hold executors accountable.
Informal Wills & Multiple Documents
Disputes often emerge when there are:
• Unwitnessed wills
• Multiple versions of a will
• Conflicting documents like letters or texts
We advise on whether these documents can be admitted to probate and how to navigate the risks.
Contested Powers of Attorney & Capacity Concerns
We assist families in resolving disputes over enduring powers of attorney, including allegations of misuse or questions of capacity when the document was created.
Our Approach to Estate Disputes
- Early Risk Assessment
We identify the legal basis for the dispute, assess the strength of the claim, and help you understand likely outcomes. - Negotiation & Mediation
Most estate matters settle out of court. We aim to resolve disputes efficiently while protecting family relationships and estate value. - Court Representation
If litigation is required, we provide clear, confident representation in the Queensland Supreme Court or District Court, as needed.
Why Choose Cohen Legal?
- Based in Townsville and Mount Isa, serving all of North Queensland
- Strong litigation experience across wills, estates, and family-linked disputes
- Deep understanding of regional family structures and property complexities
- Trusted by both claimants and executors for clear, empathetic guidance
Meet Sam Cohen, Principal Lawyer
Considering or Facing an Estate Dispute?
Strict time limits apply to many estate litigation matters—especially family provision claims. Early advice can protect your legal position and reduce long-term costs.
Book a Consultation
Call 07 4721 0264
Cohen Legal — Protecting your rights, your legacy, and your peace of mind.
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