Janine McGuire
Top rated Estate & Trust Litigation attorney in Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Conrad & Scherer, LLP
Practice areas: Estate & Trust Litigation, Business Litigation, Construction Litigation; view more
Licensed in Florida since: 1996
Education: The Catholic University of America Columbus School of Law
Call today:
954-546-7822
Conrad & Scherer, LLP
614 S Federal HwyFort Lauderdale, FL 33301 Visit website
Janine McGuire is a Partner at Conrad & Scherer, bringing extensive experience in commercial litigation, trust and probate litigation, and appellate practice. She earned her Juris Doctor from the Catholic University of America, Columbus School of Law in 1995 and her Bachelor of Arts from Providence College in 1992, graduating cum laude.
In commercial litigation, Janine represents clients in complex disputes involving fiduciary duties, breach of duty claims, contract enforcement, and business torts. She was a member of the trial team in Gopher v. Wells Fargo, where Broward County jurors returned the largest jury verdict in the county’s history, awarding approximately $826 million for Wells Fargo’s mismanagement of a trust established for the Seminole Tribe of Florida’s children. The court later entered an amended judgment exceeding $1.25 billion with prejudgment interest. This landmark case, representing approximately 2,000 children of the Seminole Tribe of Florida, exposed significant breaches of fiduciary duty and financial misconduct, reinforcing the firm’s commitment to high-stakes advocacy. Janine also played a critical role in the legal fight against Scott Rothstein, one of the largest Ponzi scheme fraudsters in U.S. history, helping recover significant assets for victims.
In her trust and estate practice, Janine addresses complex legal issues involving family businesses, fiduciary duties, and real estate transactions. Known for her expertise in probate and trust administration, she represents trustees, personal representatives, and beneficiaries in high-stakes fiduciary disputes, protecting their interests with precision and strategic insight.
Janine’s appellate work is marked by her meticulous attention to procedural and substantive standards, ensuring clients’ rights are protected throughout the appeals process. She integrates proactive trial preparation to anticipate potential appellate issues, allowing for a seamless transition if an appeal becomes necessary.
As a Partner at Conrad & Scherer, Janine is known for delivering tailored legal solutions grounded in integrity, proactive communication, and results-driven advocacy. She consistently achieves successful outcomes for her clients, upholding the firm’s dedication to high-quality legal services across commercial, probate, and appellate matters.
Practice areas
Estate & Trust Litigation, Business Litigation, Construction Litigation: BusinessFocus areas
Will Contests
- 50% Estate & Trust Litigation
- 30% Business Litigation
- 20% Construction Litigation: Business
First Admitted: 1996, Florida
Professional Webpage: https://www.conradscherer.com/attorney/janine-mcguire/
Bar / Professional Activity
- Florida, 1996
- Supreme Court of United States, 2004, 2004
- Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals, 2001, 2001
- New York, 1996
Videos
Pro bono / Community Service
- Conrad & Scherer Children Literacy Initiative, program lead, 2022 to present, 2022
- Conrad & Scherer Pathways to Careers in Law with NSU Law and Fort Lauderdale High School, program lead, 2021 to present, 2021
- Saint Mark’s Episcopal Church and School, Board of Trustees, 2013, 2013
- Broward County Bar Association, Member, 1996 to present, 1996
- Omicron Delta Epsilon, Member, 1992 to present, 1992
Educational Background
- Catholic University of America, Columbus School of Law, Juris Doctor, 1995
- Providence College, Bachelor of Arts, 1992, cum laude
Honors
- Best Lawyers, https://www.bestlawyers.com/, 2026
- Fort Lauderdale Commercial Litigation, Best Lawyers, bestlawyers.com, 2025
- Honored as a “Girl Scouts Lead the Way” “Inspirational Woman of Broward County” by the Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida, 2022, Honored as a “Girl Scouts Lead the Way” “Inspirational Woman of Broward County” by the Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida, Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida, 2022
- Listed in South Florida Legal Guide, “Top Up and Comers”, 2010 to 2012, Listed in South Florida Legal Guide, “Top Up and Comers”, South Florida Legal Guide, 2010
- Listed in South Florida Legal Guide, “Top Lawyers”, 2013 and 2014, Listed in South Florida Legal Guide, “Top Lawyers”, South Florida Legal Guide, 2013
- Selected as a “Top Lawyer” by Fort Lauderdale Illustrated Magazine for Insurance Law & Trusts and Estates, 2021, Selected as a “Top Lawyer” by Fort Lauderdale Illustrated Magazine for Insurance Law & Trusts and Estates, 2021, Fort Lauderdale Illustrated Magazine, 2021
- A Leader In Commercial And Trust Litigation Janine’s practice areas are extensive, focusing on commercial litigation, trust and probate litigation, and appellate practice. Her work involves key litigation strategies that cater to a diverse clientele throughout all stages of litigation. Janine’s meticulous attention to detail and her profound understanding of the legal landscape enable her to navigate complex cases with finesse and strategic acumen. Specializing In Estate And Trust Litigation A significant part of Janine’s practice revolves around estate and trust litigation, where she addresses critical issues such as the management of family businesses, the duties of fiduciaries, and real estate transactions. She is known for her thorough approach in representing trustees, personal representatives, and others entangled in probate proceedings and trust administration. Advocacy And Appellate Insight Janine’s prowess is not limited to trial courts. Her extensive experience in appellate law equips her with the unique ability to oversee the litigation process meticulously, ensuring that all appellate rights are preserved. Her proactive approach in building a compelling record is crucial should an appeal become necessary, providing her clients with a distinct advantage. Celebrating Success At The Diplomat Resort The award ceremony, held at The Diplomat Resort, was a significant event, acknowledging women who have made outstanding contributions to South Florida’s economy and society. Janine’s recognition at this event highlights her role as a thought leader and change-maker in the region. Looking Forward As we celebrate Janine’s well-deserved recognition, we also look forward to her continued contributions to our firm and community. Her dedication and expertise not only enhance our firm’s reputation but also contribute significantly to the legal profession in South Florida. For more information about Janine McGuire and her practice areas, please visit our website. Don’t forget to check out her feature in the May issue of SFBW Magazine, where her achievements and future endeavors are showcased., 2024 South Florida Business & Wealth Prestigious Women Award, South Florida Business & Wealth, 2024
Selections
- Super Lawyers: 2025 - 2026