No do overs. Try to be the best you can be in everything you do and to teach and pull others up while doing it. In my practice, I approach every case as if I was representing my mother or my wife. I have always had a leaning for the underdog and want to give them a fair shot on taking on power, be it a large company or the government.

I hope to provide an example to my kids that you have control over all aspects of your life. If you do not like something, change it. And if you think the rules are not fair or the enforcers are not accountable, take them on.

I was lucky to fall into a career I believe in. In my practice, I represent individuals and small businesses, and relish in the challenge in taking on larger adversaries that are better funded than my clients. I want to give my clients the confidence that if practiced correctly, the law can serve and aid the under-served and once you get in front of that jury, you are on equal ground as the government or a transnational corporation.

I take great pride in being Armenian. My name is not the usual name most people run into in Northern California courts. So people know I am of Armenian descent when I am in the courtroom. I keep telling myself “don’t screw up” or else I feel a sense that it will not only reflect bad on me, but my family and Armenians in general.

Given our history, issues of moral and ethical positions were hoisted upon me early in life by my parents. I believe given our history, it is much easier for Armenians to empathize with others and their plight, especially disadvantaged groups, as we naturally are questioning power. Ultimately, it is important for me to be on the “right side of the fight” in my practice.