Contested Estate Lawyers – Stratus Legal

CONTESTED ESTATE LAWYERS

Contesting a Will? Get Straight Answers About Your Options.

Not sure whether you have a claim or what to do next? We’ll help you cut through the confusion. In a free 15-minute appointment, we’ll explain where you stand, what your options are and what the next steps could look like. No legal jargon. No runaround. Just clear advice to help you make an informed decision.

(4.8/5.0) 60+ Reviews

(4.8 / 5.0) 60+ Reviews

Memberships & Professional Recognition

If You’re Not Sure What To Do Next, You’re Not Alone

Something doesn’t feel right. Maybe you’ve been left out of a Will, received less than expected, or you’re facing a claim against an estate. You’re looking for answers, but finding clear information can be difficult—especially when emotions are running high and family relationships are under strain.

OUR PROCESS

What Happens Next

STEP 1

Book Your Free Appointment

We’ll ask a few quick questions, then tell you which path fits and what to do next. You’ll leave with clear direction and a simple plan.

STEP 2

Understand Where You Stand

We’ll explain whether you may have grounds to contest the estate, what evidence may be needed, and which steps are urgent. You’ll get straightforward advice in plain English, without the legal jargon.

STEP 3

Let Us Handle the Next Steps

If you decide to move forward, we’ll develop a strategy to protect your interests and pursue your claim. Where family tensions exist, we can also handle the difficult conversations and communications on your behalf.

Get Clear Direction In 15-Minutes

Book your free 15-minute appointment for clear direction, fast. We’ll explain what applies to your situation, if your claim is worth pursing, what needs to happen first, and what can wait – in plain English. If you want we can deal with the hard conversations with your family if needed .

No Obligation • No Pressure • Just Clear Next Steps

OUR TEAM

Meet Your Estate Team

When you contact Stratus Legal, you’ll speak with real people who understand the responsibility that comes with being an executor. We’ll communicate clearly, keep you updated, and guide you through the process in plain English.

Alex O’Donohue

PRINCIPAL LAWYER

Heading the Estates Department is the ever-passionate Alex O’Donohue. Alex’s experience extends to all aspects of Estate matters including estate planning from the usual couple wills through to complex testamentary trust requirements, Grant of Probate and Letter of Administration matters, contested Estates, Will Disputes and Estate Disputes.

Amanda Azzinnaro

SENIOR ASSOCIATE

Amanda Azzinnaro is our Senior Associate who helps clients navigate contested estates and inheritance disputes across Victoria and NSW. She provides practical advice, clear communication and strong representation for people who have been left out of a will or believe they have not been adequately provided for.

Akshay Modgill

LAWYER

Akshay helps people navigate contested estates, inheritance disputes and family provision claims throughout Victoria. With a calm, practical approach, he provides clear advice, honest guidance and strong representation for clients who have been left out of a will or believe they have not been adequately provided for.

Common Questions

Every situation is different. These answers are general. If you want clarity on your specific question or on the next step you should take, click here to book your free 15-minute appointment.

Can I contest a will in Victoria?

Possibly. In Victoria, certain people can make a claim against an estate if they believe they have not been left with adequate provision. Whether you can contest a will depends on your relationship with the deceased and your personal circumstances.

Who can contest a will?

Eligibility depends on the circumstances, but spouses, former spouses, domestic partners, children, stepchildren and certain dependants may be able to bring a claim. We can quickly assess whether you are likely to be eligible.

How long do I have to contest a will?

Strict time limits apply. If you think you may have a claim, it is important to obtain legal advice as soon as possible to avoid missing important deadlines.

What are the chances of succeeding in a contested estate claim?

Every matter is different. The outcome will depend on factors such as your financial circumstances, your relationship with the deceased, the size of the estate and the needs of other beneficiaries.

What if I have been left out of the will?

Being excluded from a will does not automatically prevent you from making a claim. If you are an eligible person, you may still be entitled to seek further provision from the estate.

Can I contest a will if I received something but not enough?

Yes. Many contested estate claims are brought by beneficiaries who have received some provision but believe it does not adequately provide for their proper maintenance and support.

How much does it cost to contest a will?

Costs vary depending on the complexity of the matter and whether it settles early or proceeds through the Court process. Most clients will be eligible for our No Win – No Fee arrangements. During your initial appointment, we can explain the likely costs and funding options available.

Will I have to go to court?

Not necessarily. Many contested estate matters resolve through negotiation or mediation without the need for a final court hearing. Our focus is always on achieving a practical outcome as efficiently as possible.

How long does a contested estate claim take?

Timeframes vary depending on the complexity of the estate, the number of parties involved and whether an agreement can be reached. Some matters resolve within months, while others can take longer.

What happens if the estate has already been distributed?

Urgent action may still be possible in some situations. If you believe you have a claim, seek legal advice as soon as possible so your options can be assessed.

Will contesting a will damage family relationships?

Estate disputes can be emotionally challenging. We aim to minimise conflict wherever possible and can handle communications and negotiations on your behalf to reduce stress and tension.

Is the 15-minute appointment really obligation-free?

Yes. It’s designed to give you clarity and next steps — not pressure you into a decision.

Trusted by Families Across Victoria

These are verified Google reviews from families we’ve helped with contesting estates and defending estates. They reflect what you can expect from us: clear advice, calm support, and steady progress.

Book Your Free Appointment

Get clear, practical guidance on contesting or defending an Estate.

No obligation. No Pressure.

No Obligation • No Pressure • Just Clear Next Steps

Get In Touch

To contact us, simply fill out the form, and we will reply within 24 business hours. If you need a faster response, call us at 1300 185 734 to speak with our team. We look forward to assisting you.

Send A Message

Fill in the form to get in touch & you’ll have a reply within 24-hours business hours. If you need a faster response, call us at 1300 185 734 to speak with our team.

NAME

Stratus Legal Group

PHONE

1300 140 169

ADDRESS

Ground Floor/607 Bourke Street, Melbourne VIC 3000

ADDRESS

60 Percy St, Portland VIC 3305

OPENING HOURS

Mon - Fri: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Send A Message

Fill in the form to get in touch & you’ll have a reply within one business day. If you need a faster response, call us at 1300 140 169 to speak with our team.