Biography And Reviews
Steven is a well rounded solicitor who is well versed in will, trust and estate disputes as well as cases in the Court of Protection and has a approachable yet firm style when dealing with complex family dynamics.
Steven specialises in:
- Will, Trust and Estate disputes.
- Contentious Court of Protection.
What are your career highlights so far?
- A great record of success with Inheritance Act claims on behalf of spouses and cohabitees who have not been left provision in their significant others estates.
- Successfully defended an Inheritance Act claim against an elderly client that was made by an estranged (and difficult) step-child.
- Actions against executors whose relationship with beneficiaries has broken down to the point of no communication. Skilled negotiation has then opened dialogue between the parties who have been able to reach agreement without the need for court proceedings.
- Possession proceedings issued against disgruntled beneficiaries who refuse to leave estate property, frustrating sale and causing delays in relation to estate distribution.
- Defended and made validity claims (under mental capacity, undue influence and fraudulent calumny) on behalf of family beneficiaries who have been left out of, or are getting a small share of, the deceased’s estate.
- Handled professional negligence claims against solicitors who have either drafted wills badly or failed to act on instruction before the testator died.
- Acted for a protected person who had been financially abused by the care home staff where she lived.
- Resolved financial (LPA and Deputyship) disputes between family members where the donor has lost capacity and there are allegations of financial abuse.
- Handled financial abuse claims between family members where one party has used the protected persons bank cards and online banking for their own personal gains.
- Defended lifetime gift claims from warring siblings both during the donor’s lifetime and after death.
What is one legal myth that you’d love to dispel?
“The terms “next of kin” and “common law wife” cause many problems with inheritance disputes. Rather than relying on such terms, the testator has to make sure their will is up to date.”
What made you want to work in your sector?
“I was the first in my family to go to university. My father was a frustrated barrister who sold double glazing! Both he and my mother were very supportive in this career choice. I am lucky that I have had exposure to many areas of law in my early career and now enjoy helping resolve family arguments be it either after death or when someone has lost capacity.”
Steven is a recommended lawyer in The Legal 500, 2026.
Visit our Will, Trust and Estate Disputes page, or our Court of Protection Disputes section for more information on our services. You can also call our team on 01484 821 500.
Thank you for your expertise and guidance. Your professionalism and clarity throughout is greatly appreciated. Thank you for also guiding me through every step.”
Anon
I would like to take this opportunity to thank you with your professionalism and dignity in this matter.”
Will, Trust & Estate Dispute
Steven Murgatroyd took on my case at a very emotionally draining and intimidating time. Steven immediately had a good understanding of the issues involved in complex family relationships. His calmness, experience, and common sense were able to allay my worries and soothe my anger and irritation.
Legal 500 2026 testimonial
Steven Murgatroyd’s knowledge and expertise was evident from the outset and provided me with the confidence to instruct him to deal with my case. He was able to explain how he would deal with my situation step by step and once instructed provided an extremely smooth, efficient and prompt service.
Legal 500 2026 testimonial
“I just wanted to take a moment to thank you for your assistance throughout the recent matter. Your guidance, professionalism, and attention to detail were greatly appreciated, and I’m very grateful for the time and care you took in bringing everything to a successful conclusion. It’s been a relief to have the case fully resolved, and I wanted to acknowledge your efforts and those of your team in managing the process so efficiently.”
Will, Trust & Estate Dispute
Thanks so much for your support during such a complex time in my life.”
Will, Trust & Estate Dispute
I cannot thank you enough for your support, advice and guidance throughout and knowing that you were behind me. Your calm professionalism and understanding in a very complex and emotional situation was invaluable.”
Will, Trust & Estate Dispute
“Thanks again for all your help with this case, you have been brilliant and I’m really pleased with the outcome.”
Will, Trust & Estate Dispute
Steven Murgatroyd helped me and my sister with a very stressful family issue. He was professional and supportive. He made me and my sister feel at ease and listened too.”
Alison
Thank you for your expert advice and actions, which were carried out promptly and professionally to successfully resolve the challenges regarding the administration of my late mothers estate. I would have no hesitation in recommending you.”
Will, Trust & Estate Dispute
Thanks for your helpful and professional help on this matter. Things seem now to be coming to a satisfactory conclusion, after your recent meeting. We now feel we are moving forward, which is a relief.
Will, Trust & Estate Dispute
I found Steven Murgatroyd to be a very professional solicitor to deal with my affairs. Also he was very down to earth, and easy to talk to. I’ve had no issues over the years I’ve dealt with Steven.”
Eileen Robinson
Steven Murgatroyd was prompt, knowledgeable and dealt with my issue in a very professional manner and saw me within 24 hours. Highly recommended.”
Steve Tilson
Thank you for your time, advice and professionalism.”
Private Client
I will definitely recommend you, you have been great.”
Will, Trust & Estate Dispute
Many thanks for all your help, it was really good to have someone with a practical attitude to deal with the parties and their solicitors.”
Private Client Solicitor