Caitlin M. Powell

Experience

Caitlin M. Powell is a probate, trust, and guardianship litigation attorney in the Trusts and Estates group at Johnson Pope Bokor Ruppel & Burns, LLP. Her practice focuses on representing individuals, trustees, personal representatives, and agents in contested estates, fiduciary disputes, and guardianship proceedings. Caitlin works closely with clients during emotionally charged transitions, helping them navigate uncertainty and move forward with clarity and purpose.

Caitlin has a significant focus on guardianship matters and regularly represents guardians and interested parties navigating court supervision and ongoing fiduciary responsibilities. She assists clients in addressing compliance obligations, resolving disputes, and managing the practical challenges that arise throughout guardianship proceedings. Her approach emphasizes clear communication and early issue resolution, supporting stability while reducing unnecessary conflict.

Her practice also frequently involves advising clients who have been appointed under a power of attorney or named as a trustee or personal representative but are uncertain how to carry out their roles. Caitlin guides these clients through complex responsibilities and helps families work through disagreements following the death of a loved one, particularly when the administration process feels overwhelming. She focuses on identifying the core objectives of each matter and developing a path forward that allows for meaningful resolution.

Known for her collaborative and goal-focused approach, Caitlin resolves many of her matters through mediation, helping parties reach practical outcomes without the need for trial. When cooperation is not possible, she is prepared to pursue litigation and protect her clients’ interests, while remaining focused on efficiency and minimizing unnecessary strain

Representative Matters

• Contested Trust Administration. Represented a trustee facing internal family disputes regarding administration decisions, resolving the matter through mediation and preserving the trust structure.
• Probate Dispute Involving Sibling Conflict. Assisted a personal representative navigating allegations raised by beneficiaries, guiding the estate through administration and settlement.
• Guardianship Proceedings. Represented parties in guardianship matters involving oversight issues and compliance with statutory duties.
• Power of Attorney Dispute. Advised an appointed agent accused of exceeding authority, achieving resolution without protracted litigation.
• Mediated Estate Resolution. Resolved the majority of estate and trust administration disputes through mediation, helping beneficiaries and fiduciaries reach practical, negotiated outcomes without the need for a costly trial and allowing families to move forward efficiently during difficult transitions.

Bar Admissions:

• Florida

Education:

• Florida State University College of Law, J.D., 2015
• Florida State University, B.A., Classics (Concentration in Latin), Minor in Religion, 2012

 Awards & Recognition:

• Fellow of Class V of the Florida Fellows Institute of the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel
• The Best Lawyers in America® “Ones to Watch”, Trusts and Estates, 2021 – Present
• Super Lawyers Rising Star, 2023 – Present

Community & Professional Organizations

• The Florida Bar
  • Member, Real Property, Probate & Trust Law Section (RPPTL)
  • Former Vice-Chair, Guardianship, Power of Attorney and Advance Directives Committee
  • Former Chair, Office of Public and Professional Guardians Suspension Procedures Subcommittee
  • Vice-Chair, Annual Guardianship CLE, 2019 – 2023
  • Member, Probate Law and Procedure Committee of RPPTL
  • Board Member, Young Lawyer Division Board of Governors
• The Clearwater Bar Association
  • Former President, Young Lawyer Division

Outside the Office

Outside of her practice, Caitlin enjoys spending time in nature and taking advantage of Florida’s outdoor spaces. She enjoys kayaking, visiting local parks, reading, and spending time near the water. Her preference for low key activities reflects the steady and thoughtful approach she brings to her work.