Promises and Gifts Before Death
If someone promised you property, money, or assets during their lifetime but died before following through, you may have more legal options than you realise. We’ll give you a straight-talking assessment of where you stand and what you can do about it.
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Alternatively, talk to one of our team members on 0330 111 3131 or via our online enquiry form.
How we can help with promises and gifts made before death
Disputes over promises and gifts before death can take several forms. Whether you’re trying to enforce a promise made to you or defending an estate against a claim, we can help you understand your position and work towards a resolution.
Proprietary estoppel claims
If you were promised an inheritance, property, or a share of a business and relied on that promise to your detriment, you may be able to make a proprietary estoppel claim. This could apply if you gave up other opportunities, worked without proper pay, or made significant life decisions based on what you were told.
Defending against a proprietary estoppel claim
If you’re an executor or beneficiary and someone is challenging the estate on the basis of an alleged promise, we can help you assess the strength of that claim and build a robust defence where one exists.
Disputes involving family businesses and property
Many of these cases arise within family businesses or around the family home, particularly in farming families or where one person has contributed years of unpaid work on the understanding they’d be rewarded. We have experience handling these sensitive, high-stakes disputes.
Deathbed gifts
Where a gift was made or indicated shortly before death but wasn’t formally completed, there may be grounds to argue it should still take effect. We’ll advise you honestly on whether that argument is likely to succeed.
How the dispute process works
1. Initial review
We’ll talk through your situation and give you an honest assessment of whether you have a valid claim. You’ll need to share what you know about the promise that was made, how you relied on it, and what you lost as a result.
2. Gathering evidence
This is often where these cases are won or lost. We’ll work with you to pull together everything that supports your position — correspondence, witness accounts, financial records, and any other relevant documentation.
3. Letter of claim and negotiation
We notify the estate and enter negotiations. Many of these disputes are resolved at this stage, without the need for court proceedings.
4. Resolution
Whether through settlement or court, we’ll work to reach the best possible outcome and bring matters to a close as efficiently as we can.
Why choose Slater Heelis for promises and gifts before death
Recognised excellence you can trust
We’re listed in The Times Best Law Firms for 2026, and The Legal 500 recognises us as one of the leading firms in the North West. Contentious probate work requires solicitors who understand both the legal technicalities and the family sensitivities involved. Our 4.9/5 average rating across over 1,400 ReviewSolicitors reviews shows we get that balance right.
Experience you can rely on
Proprietary estoppel and deathbed gift cases are among the most evidence-sensitive disputes in contentious probate. Our solicitors have handled these claims across a range of circumstances, from family farm disputes to informal promises made over decades, and we know how to build a case that stands up to scrutiny. Whether you’re in Manchester, Sale, Chester or further afield, you’ll have an experienced solicitor with you from first call to final resolution.
Rooted in the North West since 1773
We’ve been serving families across the North West for over 250 years. When emotions run high and family relationships are under strain, you need solicitors who understand how to resolve disputes pragmatically while protecting your position.
If someone made you a promise they never kept or you’re defending an estate against a claim, get in touch with our team for straight-talking advice on where you stand.
Call us on 0330 111 3131 or contact us via our online enquiry form to arrange a consultation with our promises and gifts before death solicitors.
Our offices in Manchester, Sale, and Chester are open for face-to-face meetings, and we regularly work with clients across the UK, with appointments at other locations available when needed. We’ll explain whether you have grounds to claim, what the realistic outcomes look like, and the most practical way to move forward.
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