About Ben...

With a down to earth, pragmatic attitude and a wealth of experience, Ben is a trusted solicitor who is a recognised authority in inheritance disputes, contentious probate matters and estate disputes of all sizes, whether his clients are making a claim or responding to one. In his role as Partner, Ben is known for taking time to understand his clients’ needs and get them the best possible result.

In the 2025 edition of Chambers & Partners, Ben earned a ranking in the Private Wealth Disputes (High Net Worth) category for the North East & Yorkshire. Ben is also recognised in the 2024 and 2025 edition of the Legal 500 as a specialist in disputes, particularly contentious probate claims. These accolades reflect his outstanding capabilities and is based on rigorous independent research into the legal market.

Chambers and Partners highlights his expertise in handling complex disputes, noting his ability to navigate emotionally charged and high-stakes situations with both strategic insight and genuine empathy. Clients and peers alike have praised Ben for his kind and patient approach, while also recognising his tenacity and strength in difficult cases.

Specialisms:

• Pursuing Inheritance Claims and Disappointed Beneficiary Claims
• Defending Estate Disputes for Executors and Beneficiaries
• Wills, Executor and Trust Disputes
• Estate Debt Recovery
• Care Fee Recovery Claims

Case Highlight

Bird & Montgomery -v- Lantern Recovery LLP & Others [2021] EWHC 1379 (Ch) (“Coleman”) – Ben acted for the Claimant Executors bringing a claim to trial to recover assets diverted from the Estate. After considering expert handwriting reports filed by both sides and hearing witness evidence in a hybrid trial in the High Court trial lasting 2 weeks, His Honour Judge Gerald made findings of forgery and undue influence against the Defendants. The Claimants were awarded over £3.1m plus costs on the indemnity basis. The Court of Appeal has subsequently refused the Defendants’ application for permission to appeal.

Testimonials:

“Ben has a kind and patient way about him, but he is a strong force and will not give up, which gives him a real edge in very difficult situations”.

“I find Ben very knowledgeable and thoughtful in how to approach a situation and how it could play out. He is also very approachable.”

“Ben Marsden is superb. His care and consideration is exemplary. He is always willing to answer any questions I may have either by email or over the phone.”

Chambers & Partners, 2025 Edition (Private Wealth Disputes | High Net Worth)"

“Marsden is a specialist in disputes, particularly contentious probate claims.”

Legal 500, 2025 edition (Contentious trusts and probate)

“Ben has the perfect combination of outstanding ability and appetite for hard work that ensures his clients are both protected and successful at every level”

Matthew Collins, Barrister, Dere Street Chambers