Melissa Raneri Karlsten

Melissa Raneri Karlsten is an Adjunct Professor (part-time) at the University of San Francisco School of Law. She practices Estate Planning, Trust, and Probate Law with Aaron, Riechert, Carpol & Riffle since 2002, certified by the State Bar of California. Her professional roles include Board Director at San Mateo County Bar Association and former President of the San Mateo County Barristers Association.

• Education: JD (Cum Laude, 2002) from USF Law; BA in English (Cum Laude, 1997) from Santa Clara University

Research focuses on intersections between estate planning and family law, incapacity legal frameworks, and probate modernization. Publications emphasize practical applications of estate law in evolving legal landscapes. Awards include CALI Award for Legal Research/Writing and McAuliffe Honor Society membership.

• Awards: State Bar certification as Estate Planning Specialist, CALI Award

Professional service includes Executive Committee role in California Lawyers Association's Trusts & Estates Section. Active in legal mediation training and cross-disciplinary legal practice development.