About Marlene Pappas
Marlene Pappas Getchell is a seasoned estate planning attorney based in San Rafael, California. Since 1976, she has dedicated her career to the legal profession, focusing on estate planning, probate, and trust litigation. Her office is conveniently located at 1101 5th Ave, Suite 310, San Rafael, CA 94901, where she provides comprehensive legal services to clients navigating complex estate issues. Ms. Getchell earned her Juris Doctor from the University of California College of the Law, San Francisco, in 1976. While attending law school, she actively participated in the Moot Court Board during the 1975-1976 academic year. Her contributions to appellate advocacy were recognized with a Certificate of Appreciation in the David E.
Snodgrass Moot Court Competition. Prior to her legal education, she obtained an A.B. in English from the University of California at Davis in 1973. During her undergraduate years, she was elected to the Student Council for the 1972-1973 term, showcasing her leadership abilities early on. In 1995, Ms. Getchell achieved a significant milestone by becoming a Certified Specialist in Estate Planning, Trust, and Probate Law. This designation is granted by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization, reflecting her expertise and commitment to the field.
Her reputation for excellence has been further solidified through her recognition as a Super Lawyer from 2009 to 2012 and again from 2015 to 2026. This accolade is awarded to only a select group of attorneys who demonstrate outstanding professional achievement. Her legal practice encompasses many services, including the preparation of estate plans, wills, and trusts. Additionally, Ms. Getchell is experienced in probate and trust administration, ensuring that her clients' wishes are honored and legal obligations are met. She also handles litigation related to will and trust contests, addressing issues such as breach of fiduciary duty and elder abuse cases. Her experience allows her to handle the requirements of these sensitive matters with care and precision.
Beyond her legal practice, Ms. Getchell has taken on leadership roles within the legal community. She has served as President of the Marin County Bar Association, contributing to the advancement of legal standards and practices in the region. Furthermore, her commitment to social responsibility is evident through her involvement in pro bono legal services in Marin County, where she has provided assistance to those in need. For more information or to schedule a consultation, Ms. Getchell can be reached at (415) 457-8830 or via email at marlene@mgetchell.com.
