Johnson Pope Attorneys Win Appellate Case on Trust Reformation

Johnson Pope attorneys Brandon Bellew and Caitlein Jammo successfully secured a reversal in the Second District Court of Appeal in a case involving the reformation of trusts.

The trial court had previously ruled to reform a newly created trust as a restatement of an older trust, despite the fact that the new trust had never been funded. Real estate assets remained titled in the older trust, and the court’s ruling conflicted with established legal principles.

On appeal, Caitlein Jammo authored the brief and delivered oral arguments, achieving a significant victory for the client. The appellate court determined there was no mistake in the new trust’s terms, only that it was unfunded, which does not justify reformation.

As a result of this decision, Johnson Pope’s client went from receiving nothing to being a significant beneficiary in the trust.

This case highlights Johnson Pope’s depth of experience in appellate advocacy and the firm’s commitment to protecting client interests at every stage of litigation.

If you’re facing a complex trust or appellate matter, reach out to Brandon and Caitlein for experienced guidance.