As Seen in Law.com: Kluger Kaplan Secures $10 Million Verdict in Rare Probate Jury Trial

A Miami-Dade Circuit Court jury awarded $10 million to the heirs of prominent family law attorney Maurice Jay Kutner, marking one of the first probate jury trials in Miami-Dade in nearly two decades. The case, Kutner v. Kutner, was brought by Kutner’s adult children and litigated by Kluger Kaplan’s Trust and Estates Litigation Chair Bruce Katzen and Partner Marissa Reichel.

The dispute centered on the mismanagement of Mr. Kutner’s estate. His children alleged that Kutner’s widow failed to safeguard estate assets, engaged in self-dealing, and improperly allocated funds, including millions in partnership interests, real estate, and other high-value holdings.

Following a two-week trial, the jury sided with the plaintiffs, finding that Kutner’s widow breached her fiduciary duty as personal representative of the estate. The jury awarded damages of $10 million, delivering a rare and decisive victory in a probate case of this size and complexity.

“This case underscores the importance of accountability in estate administration,” said Katzen. “Even in sensitive family disputes, personal representatives must uphold their fiduciary obligations. When they fail to do so, the courts and juries will hold them responsible.”

Reichel added, “It is uncommon to see probate matters reach a jury trial, let alone one with damages of this magnitude. We are proud to have achieved justice for our clients and to set an example for how fiduciary duties should be enforced.”

Read the full story in Law.com.