Geraldine Hemmerling ’49, J.D. ’52

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Culminating a distinguished career in estate planning, taxation, probate and trust law, Geraldine Hemmerling was recently elected president of the American College Probate Counsel, one of the most prestigious positions in American law. Hemmerling is the first woman ever named to head the College, a national organization of more than 2,000 attorneys who specialize in probate matters.

After graduation from UCLA in 1949, Hemmerling enrolled at the brand new School of Law and graduated in 1952 with the very first class. Presently with the firm of Armstrong, Hirsch & Levine, Hemmerling attracts clients who are known nationally and internationally. Her knowledge, competence and leadership have won her the highest respect and admiration of her peers as well as her clients. Fellow attorneys are quick to point out that her area of specialization requires continuous study to understand and apply complex laws and regulations which are frequently changing.

In addition to her achievements as a probate attorney, Hemmerling has given generously of her time and energy through the years so that other lawyers could hone their skills. In a diverse range of activities at the state and national level, she has been an editor and author of continuing education materials and has led numerous programs for those who wish to stay current professionally. A dedicated alumna, Hemmerling is a past president of the UCLA Law Alumni Association and was a member of the search committee for dean of the UCLA Law School in 1962.

In the words of Dorothy Nelson, U.S. court of Appeals judge, Hemmerling “richly deserves this Professional Achievement Award.”