An ugly dispute has erupted among the five children of the late, legendary trial attorney James E. Beasley Sr., pitting the two daughters from his first marriage against the son and two daughters from his second marriage in a battle over the handling of his $55 million estate.

The court battle promises to be even more explosive because the elder sisters are represented by a disgruntled former Beasley Firm attorney who has his own lawsuit pending against the firm.