James Pettit is an Associate in the private wealth disputes team based in the Ipswich office.
James has specialised in contentious trusts and probate matters since qualification and he is an associate member of the Association of Contentious Trusts and Probate Specialists (‘ACTAPS’). James regularly advises and assists clients in connection with:
- Challenges to the validity of Wills
- Claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975
- Applications to remove Executors and Trustees
- Disputes regarding the administration of estates
- Disputes regarding the interpretation and rectification of Wills
- Proprietary estoppel claims
James adopts a pragmatic approach to resolving disputes in an efficient and cost-effective manner. He is a keen advocate of alternative dispute resolution, particularly mediation, as it allows parties to have much more control over the outcome and be more creative in the resolution of disputes, as well as providing greater peace of mind to clients.
James recognises that disputes are often emotionally challenging for clients and approaches his clients with sensitivity, empathy and understanding. James is approachable, down to earth and avoids using legal jargon where possible when speaking to clients.
Recent work highlights
Defending claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975 and the Trusts of Land and Appointment of Trustees Act 1996 made by the deceased’s unmarried partner. Successfully mediating the claim and preserving a sizeable share of the estate for the deceased’s daughter.
Applying to propound a Will in solemn form which was challenged by the deceased’s 10 maternal cousins.
Advising professional trustees on their duties and obligations in relation to two multi million pound discretionary trusts containing high value agricultural land and property.
Experience and education
2026 Joined Birketts
2024 – 2026 Birkett Long
2022 Qualified as a Solicitor, Palmers
2021 Graduated from BPP University with a Distinction in the LLM Professional Legal Practice (Legal Practice Course)
2020 Trainee Solicitor, Clapham & Collinge
2018 Graduated from University of East Anglia with a 2.1 in the LLB Law
Areas of Expertise
Accreditations
Association of Contentious Trusts and Probate Specialists (ACTAPS)
Full member
