Structured Settlement Laws in Florida

Fifteenth Judicial Circuit Court

Court procedures, filing requirements, and local rules for structured settlement transfers in Fifteenth Judicial Circuit Court.

Table of Contents

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🏛️ Court
Fifteenth Judicial Circuit Court
205 N. Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach, FL 33401
⏱️ Processing Time
60-90 days from filing to final order
Filing fee: $400.00 (plus service and publication fees)
👥 Population
1,492,191 (2023 estimate)
Volume: medium

Court Information

Fifteenth Judicial Circuit Court
Address: 205 N. Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach, FL 33401
Phone: (561) 355-2996
Clerk: Joseph Abruzzo
Jurisdiction: Palm Beach County
Established: Established 1909

Venue Overview

The Fifteenth Judicial Circuit Court serves Palm Beach County with West Palm Beach as the county seat. This affluent county with significant retiree and seasonal resident populations processes numerous structured settlement transfers annually. The court is known for its thorough review process and emphasis on payee protection, particularly for elderly or financially vulnerable individuals. The civil division handles complex financial matters with judges experienced in reviewing structured settlement transfers under Florida law. The court maintains high standards for documentation and independent advisor involvement.

Major Cities Served: West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, Wellington

Filing Procedures

📋 Step-by-Step Process
1.Petition filed with clerk and reviewed for completeness within 48 hours
2.Notice of filing sent to all parties within 5 business days
3.30-day response period for interested parties to file objections
4.Financial discovery period typically 3-4 weeks
5.Pre-hearing settlement conference required for contested cases
6.Final hearing includes examination of payee and independent advisor
7.Written findings of fact and conclusions of law issued within 14 days
8.30-day appeal period from entry of final judgment
⚖️ Local Rules
  • In-person filing required for initial petitions (electronic filing for subsequent documents)
  • Hearing typically scheduled within 45-60 days of filing
  • Independent advisor testimony often required at final hearing
  • Mandatory mediation for transfers over $100,000
  • Publication notice required in Palm Beach Post if personal service not possible
  • All transfer calculations must be verified by court-appointed expert if over $50,000

Special Requirements

📋 Mandatory Requirements
  • Detailed financial affidavits and budget analysis required
  • All interested parties (annuity companies, insurers) must receive notice via certified mail
  • Court approval mandatory for all transfers regardless of amount
  • Independent financial advisor consultation documentation required
  • Explanation of transfer necessity and alternative options must be provided
  • Court must make explicit finding that transfer serves payee's best interest
⏱️ Timeline
Filing Fee:$400.00 (plus service and publication fees)
Processing Time:60-90 days from filing to final order
Transfer Volume:medium

Assigned Judges

Hon. Scott Suskauer
Circuit Court Judge
Civil Division - Complex Business Litigation
Specializes in financial transactions and structured settlement transfers
Former business attorney with extensive contract and financial law background
Hon. Gregory M. Keyser
Circuit Court Judge
Civil Division - General Jurisdiction
Handles civil matters including financial planning and settlement transfers
Background in commercial litigation and financial services regulation
Hon. Samantha Schosberg Feuer
Circuit Court Judge
Civil Division - Probate and Guardianship
Experienced in cases involving financial decision-making and asset protection
Former trust and estate attorney with focus on elder financial protection

Local Resources & Links

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⚖️ Legal Disclaimer - Florida Structured Settlement Information

For informational purposes only. This information is provided for educational purposes and should not be construed as legal advice. Structured settlement laws vary by state and are subject to change.

Court approval required. All structured settlement transfers require court approval in every state to ensure the best interests of the payee and any dependents are protected.

Professional consultation recommended. We strongly recommend consulting with qualified legal and financial professionals before making any decisions regarding structured settlement transfers.

State-specific requirements. Each state has unique statutes, court procedures, and approval criteria. Always verify current requirements with official state resources.

Florida specific information. The information provided here is specific to Florida state laws and may not apply to other jurisdictions.

Contact information: For questions about structured settlements in your state, please contact your state insurance department or a qualified attorney.

Last updated:
Content last updated: November 20, 2025

Structured Settlement Transfer Procedures in Fifteenth Judicial Circuit Court, Florida

Navigating structured settlement transfers in Fifteenth Judicial Circuit Court, Florida requires understanding both state-level regulations and local court procedures. Each county may have specific filing requirements, court rules, and administrative procedures that supplement the broader Florida structured settlement protection act.

When filing a structured settlement transfer petition in Fifteenth Judicial Circuit Court, Florida, you'll work with the local court system to obtain approval. The Fifteenth Judicial Circuit Court court will review your petition to ensure the transfer serves your best interest, considers mandatory disclosure documents, and verifies that you've received independent professional advice. Local court procedures may include specific filing fees, timeline requirements, and documentation standards that vary from other counties in Florida.

The Fifteenth Judicial Circuit Court court system's familiarity with structured settlement transfers can impact processing times and approval rates. Courts with high transfer volumes often have streamlined procedures, while others may require additional documentation or extended review periods. Working with professionals experienced in Fifteenth Judicial Circuit Court court procedures helps ensure your petition is filed correctly and moves through the approval process efficiently.

Smarter Payouts partners with licensed brokers and legal professionals who understand both Florida state laws and Fifteenth Judicial Circuit Court local court requirements. This local expertise helps streamline the approval process, ensures compliance with all applicable regulations, and protects your rights throughout the transfer. Whether you're filing in Fifteenth Judicial Circuit Court or another jurisdiction in Florida, our team ensures your petition meets all legal and procedural requirements.

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