John D. Stuebing

John Stuebing is counsel in Shipman’s Trusts and Estates and Family Business practices in the firm’s Boston office. With more than twenty-five years of experience in business litigation, trust and fiduciary disputes, and municipal law, John is known for combining deep courtroom experience with a practical, results-oriented approach. Clients turn to him for guidance in navigating sensitive trust and estate matters, protecting business interests in complex litigation, and advising municipalities on governance, land use, and finance challenges.

In his business litigation practice, John represents companies and business owners in resolving disputes through negotiation, mediation, arbitration, and litigation. His work spans partnership, limited liability company, and corporate conflicts, as well as employment, real estate, financing, and regulatory matters. Clients value his ability to craft strategies that address both the legal complexities and the practical business and family dynamics that influence outcomes.

John advises personal representatives and trustees on the intricacies of probate and trust law. He has extensive experience handling multi-million-dollar will contests and complex trust disputes. Recognizing that fiduciary service carries both great responsibility and potential challenges, John provides trusted counsel to fiduciaries and beneficiaries alike to ensure the effective administration of trusts and estates.

In his family law practice, John guides clients through significant personal and financial transitions. His work includes negotiating prenuptial agreements and litigating divorce actions involving complex financial, business, and real estate issues. His clients include accomplished professionals and entrepreneurs across diverse industries such as medicine, wealth management, consulting, and private enterprises.

John also has extensive experience in municipal law, having served as Special Assistant Corporation Counsel for the City of Boston and as special counsel to municipalities throughout Massachusetts. He advises on zoning, land use, capital improvement projects, municipal finance, and governance, and has successfully defended conservation commission decisions in federal court, litigated zoning and land use appeals, and resolved claims involving taxation. His combined advisory and litigation experience enables him to assist municipalities at every stage—from policy development to dispute resolution.

Over the course of his career, John has appeared before the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court, Massachusetts Appeals Court, Massachusetts Trial Courts, the U.S. Court of Appeals, the U.S. District Court, and Bankruptcy Court. His broad litigation experience provides clients with continuity and seasoned judgment from trial through appeal.

Beyond his client work, John has been recognized for his leadership in the legal community. His appointment with the Massachusetts Bar Association Probate Law Section Council reflects his commitment to advancing the practice of trust and estate law. Whether representing families, business owners, or municipalities, John brings clarity, pragmatism, and steady advocacy to every matter.