Rebecca StapletonSolicitor

People

Rebecca is a Solicitor based in our Contentious Probate team.

Rebecca works within our specialist Independent Administrator team which forms part of our wider Contentious Probate department. With extensive experience in both contentious and non-contentious trusts and estates, she offers a comprehensive and insightful perspective on all estate related matters.

Due to her mixed background in contentious and non-contentious trusts and estates, Rebecca is frequently instructed by Court appointed Independent Administrators to guide challenging estates toward resolution. Her ability to navigate sensitive matters with clarity and skill makes her a trusted adviser in cases where disputes have hindered the administration of an estate. 

Rebecca has represented claimants and defendants in matters including: 

  • Will challenges on grounds such as lack of testamentary capacity, undue influence, and fraudulent calumny
  • removal of executors or trustees, and breaches of fiduciary duty
  • promissory estoppel claims
  • disputes involving lifetime transfers by the deceased
  • inheritance (Provision for Dependants) Act 1975 including applications on behalf of adult children and disabled children
  • claims brought under the Trusts of Land and Appointment of Trustees Act 1996 (TOLATA), often achieving resolution through early settlement
  • professional negligence in estate and tax planning matters.

Rebecca also has experience in non-contentious private client matters including:

  • Drafting wills, trusts, powers of attorney and deputyship order applications
  • drafting Deeds of Variation, Deeds of Appointment, Deeds of Appropriation, Deeds of Renunciation and Declarations of Trust
  • wealth and succession planning, focusing on practical and tax-efficient solutions
  • complex estate administration. 

She is also well placed to advise charities in their capacity as executor, administrator, and beneficiary, and routinely provides detailed advice to charitable trustees, allowing them to make informed decisions that align with the charity's best interests and protects their position.

Approaching every case with empathy and pragmatism, Rebecca takes pride in successfully resolving even the most challenging estate matters.

Rebecca is based in our Bristol office, but can support you nationally.

What you might like to know

Rebecca has worked in law since November 2016, climbing through the ranks to a qualified Solicitor whilst studying full time. 

Outside of work, Rebecca enjoys spending time with family and friends, Pilates and travelling. 

Other teams Rebecca works with

As well as the Contentious Probate team, Rebecca also works with our Charities, Private Client, Residential and Commercial Property, Property Litigation and Corporate teams. 

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Contact Rebecca Stapleton

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