The Marin County community is mourning the loss of Superior Court Judge Paul M. Haakenson. His decades of service left a real mark on the region’s legal and civic life.
After his passing on September 10, flags at all Marin County facilities—including those in San Rafael, Novato, Mill Valley, and Corte Madera—were lowered to half-staff in his honor. Board of Supervisors President Mary Sackett ordered this tribute at the request of current Presiding Judge Mark Andrew Talamantes.
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They’ll keep the flags lowered through Sunday. It’s a mark of respect for a man whose career embodied dedication, fairness, and compassion.
A Judicial Career Rooted in Marin County
Judge Paul M. Haakenson’s professional journey stayed closely tied to Marin County’s legal system. Then-Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger appointed him to the Marin County Superior Court in 2006.
Haakenson served on the bench for nearly two decades before retiring in May 2024. He approached the courtroom with commitment to justice, respect for the law, and real concern for the people who stood before him.
From Prosecutor to Esteemed Judge
Before he wore the judge’s robe, Haakenson spent over ten years at the Marin County District Attorney’s Office. He prosecuted cases in neighborhoods across the county, from Tiburon and Belvedere to San Rafael’s busy streets.
Colleagues remember his methodical style, sharp legal reasoning, and a compassion that never lost sight of the human side of justice.
Educational Foundation and Accomplishments
Judge Haakenson always believed a strong education forms the bedrock of public service. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of California, Davis, then got his law degree at the University of San Francisco.
Those academic years shaped the thoughtful, balanced perspective he brought to the bench.
Notable Traits and Legacy
Mary Sackett, President of the Marin County Board of Supervisors, praised Haakenson’s vision, warmth, and fairness. She said his presence in Marin’s legal community inspired attorneys, court staff, and residents alike.
His legacy stands on three key traits:
- Vision – He blended tradition with progressive reforms in his approach to justice.
- Warmth – He showed genuine kindness to colleagues, defendants, and victims.
- Fairness – He stayed committed to equality under the law for all Marin County residents.
Community Reflection Across Marin
Lowered flags in Fairfax, Larkspur, and Sausalito serve as a visible reminder of the county’s collective grief. In Marin City, conversations in coffee shops and community centers recall Haakenson’s courtroom style—firm but respectful.
In Greenbrae, former clients and colleagues remember his ability to listen without judgment.
The Human Side of Justice
Judge Haakenson’s compassion stood out in cases with deep personal impacts. Whether he presided over criminal trials or civil disputes, he never forgot there was a human story behind every case file.
That empathy earned him respect from both sides of the aisle—from prosecutors and defense attorneys to the everyday citizens of Marin.
A Lasting Impact on Marin County
Residents from Stinson Beach’s coast to the rolling hills of Lucas Valley are reflecting on his contributions. Judge Haakenson’s work shaped the local judicial system, nudging it toward fairness and humanity.
His retirement earlier this year marked the end of an era. Still, his influence runs deep in the county’s legal traditions.
Honoring His Memory
The extended lowering of flags through Sunday means more than just a ceremonial gesture. It’s a county-wide way of saying Judge Haakenson’s years of service went far beyond professional duties.
He showed real stewardship that enriched Marin County. As flags wave in the Bay breeze outside public buildings in San Anselmo and Ross, the community pauses to reflect and feel grateful.
By honoring Judge Paul M. Haakenson, Marin County keeps the values he stood for—integrity, compassion, and fairness—alive. His legacy will keep nudging future public servants, legal minds, and citizens to do better.
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Here is the source article for this story: Marin Co.: Flags Lowered To Half-Staff In Honor Of Late Judge
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