An analysis of Google search data by researchers at Stephen Rimmer Solicitors reveals online searches related to probate disputes peak in autumn.
The phrases ‘contesting a will solicitor’, ‘disputing a will’, ‘inheritance dispute solicitor’, ‘time limit to contest a will’ and ‘challenge a will’ all reached peak traffic in October and November.
The study also highlighted a strong autumn rise in other legal searches, with debt recovery, property disputes and employment-related terms peaking between September and November.
“The data perhaps shows that disputes don’t happen at random; they follow the rhythm of people’s lives,” Andrew Flagg, partner and head of dispute resolution at Stephen Rimmer suggested.
“Autumn is the point when financial strain, work pressures and property responsibilities can collide, which could be why so many issues break the surface at this time of year.”
The study analysed a full year of Google Trends data by tracking intent-driven search terms, with phrases such as ‘how to…’ and including the word ‘solicitor’ to identify users actively looking for legal help with disputes. Using Google Trends’ 0–100 scale to measure peaks in interest, the team identified when each type of dispute is most commonly searched for throughout the year.
Some probate-related search terms fell outside the main autumn trend but still aligned with seasonal behaviour: “‘inheritance dispute advice’ peaked in May 2025, a time closely linked with tax-year planning,” Flagg said.
The analysis highlights how public interest rises and falls throughout the year, offering insight into when people are most likely to look for legal guidance, he added.
