Pettijohn & Getty, PLLC
Phone: (910) 910-9010 / Facsimile: (910) 679-6016
Our Practice
Brandon C. Pettijohn, Esq.
Brandon is a combat veteran having served the United States for 8 years, both as an enlisted Marine (where he deployed to the Middle East, Afghanistan, and was a member of the All-Marine Wrestling Team representing the United States Marine Corps and Team USA Wrestling in international wrestling tournaments) and as an enlisted soldier with the Indiana Army National Guard.
Prior to and while attending law school, Brandon served as a Department of Defense government contractor, corrections officer, probation officer, problem-solving court case manager, and implemented policy at the state level as the first ever Veterans Court Coordinator for the State of Indiana, appointed by the Chief Justice of the Indiana Supreme Court. Locally, in conjunction with the Chief District Court Judge for the 6th Judicial District of North Carolina, Brandon helped establish the New Hanover County Veterans Treatment Court where he continues to volunteer his time serving as the defense attorney for all veteran's court participants in New Hanover County.
Brandon brings years of military, life, and legal experience to his practice in order to better serve his clients on a daily basis. He lives in Wilmington and spends his spare time with family, competing in international jiujitsu competitions, and making engaging social media videos seen by millions worldwide.
Education
Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law (J.D., 2019)
University of Indianapolis (B.S., 2015)
Professional and Personal Distinctions
North Carolina State Bar
Tennessee State Bar
United States District Court, Eastern District of North Carolina
New Hanover County Bar Association
New Hanover County Veterans Treatment Court
North Carolina Pro Bono Honor Society (2023 & 2024)
Children's Museum of Wilmington, Board Member (2019-2020)
Alpha Phi Sigma Honoree (National Criminal Justice Honor Society)
Inaugural state-wide Veterans Court Coordinator for the State of Indiana
Former probation officer
Practice Areas
- Family Law (Child custody & support, alimony, spousal support, equitable distribution, pre-and-post nuptial agreements, adoptions, and DSS matters)
- Civil & Business Litigation
- Personal Injury and Mass Torts
- General Counsel for Businesses
Jamie S. Getty, Esq.
Jamie practices primarily in the area of family law; including child custody, child support, alimony, equitable distribution, premarital agreements, separation agreements, adoption and divorce. She has served as Guardian ad Litem in incompetency and guardianship proceedings. Jamie also represents parents in cases involving the Department of Social Services.
Jamie is from Winston-Salem, North Carolina. After college, Jamie worked at the Pennsylvania House of Representatives as a legislative aide. She returned to North Carolina in 2006 for law school and was a member of the charter class of Elon University School of Law. She was previously an associate attorney at Speaks Law Firm and Block, Crouch, Keeter, Behm & Sayed.
Education
Elon University School of Law (J.D., 2009)
Salem College (B.A., 2004)
Cottey College (2002)
Professional and Personal Distinctions
North Carolina State Bar
United States District Court, Eastern District of North Carolina
New Hanover County Bar Association
New Hanover County Board of Elections Chair, 2025
NCAWA, Costal Women Attorneys Member
New Hanover County Board of Elections Secretary, 2015 – 2018
North Carolina Commission on Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Abuse Services, Member 2015-2018
980 WAAV Barely Legal co-host 2012-2015
March of Dimes Board of Director 2012-2013
Elon Law Federalist Society, Founder
PEO, member since 1999
Honors and Distinctions
Equal Access to Justice, 2014-2016, 2018-2020
Legal Elite – Young Gun, Business North Carolina, 2015
Practice Areas
- Family Law
- Child Custody
- Child Support
- Alimony & Equitable Distribution
- Premarital & Separation Agreements
- Adoptions
- Divorce
- Parent Representation in DSS cases
Kayla M. Schindler, Of Counsel
With eight years of dedicated service as an attorney, Kayla brings a wealth of experience from her time at the Allegheny County Public Defender’s Office and as an associate at Pennington & Smith.
At the Public Defender’s Office, Kayla skillfully represented clients in complex criminal cases, honing a deep understanding of the legal system and a commitment to justice. Transitioning to family law, Kayla has leveraged this experience to advocate for clients through sensitive and challenging family matters, including custody disputes, divorce, and protective orders. Known for her empathetic approach and strategic acumen, Kayla is dedicated to providing exceptional legal representation and support. In addition Kayla is an approved parenting coordinator in North Carolina.
Kayla was born and raised in Ohio until she moved to Pittsburgh for law school. Kayla graduated summa cum laude from Youngstown State University with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. Kayla then graduated from Duquesne University with her juris doctorate.
Dustin W. Smith, Associate
A native of Louisburg, North Carolina, Dustin earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of North Carolina Wilmington. It was during a business law course at UNCW, ironically one focused more on tort law than traditional business concepts, that he discovered his passion for the legal profession. After graduating during the COVID-19 pandemic, Dustin dedicated himself to preparing for the LSAT and pursuing a career in law.
Dustin began his legal education at Campbell Law School in the fall of 2021 and graduated in the spring of 2024. During law school, he gained valuable practical experience through a two-year internship focused on personal injury matters and further developed his advocacy skills while participating in a family law clinic. Dustin subsequently passed the North Carolina Bar Examination in September of 2024 and was admitted to the New Hanover County Bar the following month.
Today, Dustin focuses his practice on civil litigation, personal injury, family law, guardianships, and traffic tickets, representing clients with diligence, professionalism, and a commitment to achieving favorable outcomes. He is passionate about helping individuals and businesses navigate complex legal issues and strives to provide thoughtful, effective representation at every stage of the legal process.
Outside the office, Dustin enjoys spending time with his Golden Retriever, Deacon, as well as playing golf at his club River Landing, staying active, and enjoying life in Wilmington, North Carolina.
Mark R. Argentino, CFO/COO
Mark Argentino brings a diverse background in law, government, finance, and business operations to his role as Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer at Pettijohn & Getty, PLLC.
Early in his career, Mark worked on Capitol Hill, where he served as an aide to the Justices of the United States Supreme Court. Additionally, he later worked with several members of Congress on legislative and policy matters. These experiences provided him with a unique perspective on the intersection of law, government, and public policy, while developing the analytical and strategic skills that continue to shape his leadership approach today.
Mark later transitioned into the private sector as a commercial real estate appraiser and consultant in New York City. In those roles, he advised clients on valuation matters, market trends, and investment considerations, gaining extensive experience in finance, real estate, and business strategy.
Today, Mark oversees the firm's financial management, operational performance, and long-term strategic initiatives. Drawing on experience from both the public and private sectors, he works to strengthen the firm's operations, support sustainable growth, and position Pettijohn & Getty for continued success.
Lara Girdler, Paralegal
Lara is a native of the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area and was raised primarily in Montgomery County, Maryland. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Management with a minor in International Economics from Hood College in May 2000.
In 2006, Lara relocated to the coast of North Carolina, trading the fast pace of the D.C. area for a quieter lifestyle. Over the years, she gained diverse experience across several industries, including office furniture and electrical contracting. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Lara discovered her true passion for the legal field and began her formal legal education.
She enrolled in the Paralegal Technology program at Cape Fear Community College, where she earned a diploma and two certificates in Real Property and Civil Litigation in 2023. She went on to earn her North Carolina State Bar Paralegal Certification in December 2023.
Outside of work, Lara enjoys relaxing at home, watching movies, and crocheting. She also loves spending time at the beach with her son and their dog, Ahna.
Mattie Quinn, Legal Assistant
Originally from Asheville, NC, Mattie Quinn earned her Bachelors of Science degree in Psychology with a minor in Religious Studies from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte in 2022.
Before transitioning into the legal field, Mattie spent several years working in service-oriented roles where her passion for helping others was central to her work. These experiences deepened her commitment to meaningfully supporting people. After graduating, Mattie relocated to Wilmington N.C. It was here that she found her calling in the legal profession, recognizing how her desire to assist others could be channeled into a career dedicated to making a real difference in peoples lives.
Outside of work, Mattie enjoys camping, painting, and long bike rides. She's always looking for new and exciting ways to connect with nature and the people she cares about.