League of Women Voters of California Education Fund
Los Angeles County, CA June 5, 2012 Election
	Berj Parseghian Answers Questions Candidate for Judge of the Superior Court; County of Los Angeles; Office 114

The questions were prepared by the League of Women Voters of Los Angeles County and asked of all candidates for this office.
Read the answers from all candidates (who have responded).

Questions & Answers

1. What experiences and personal qualities best equip you to serve as judge?

I have been practicing law in Los Angeles for more than twelve years. In that time, I have developed the broad, diverse and substantial experience essential to serving as an effective Los Angeles Superior Court Judge.

My strong educational foundation speaks for itself. I am a proud alum of the University of Michigan, where I graduated with high honors with a B.S. in Chemistry. From there, I completed a year of graduate work in Chemistry at Caltech and then went on to receive my law degree from UCLA, graduating at the top of my class. Service to my community has been a central thread throughout my life. From volunteer work with my church when I was young to my current volunteer work as a temporary judge, I have always believed it is my duty to contribute to my community. My colleagues, family and friends know me as a smart and talented attorney with an even temperament and the ability to get things done with a smile. I am grateful for the support of those closest to me and the educational and career opportunities that have shaped me with the credentials to serve as a Superior Court Judge.

I currently practice at an international law firm with a reputation for providing the highest caliber legal services. My practice as an environmental and energy attorney combines the challenge of navigating a complex area of the law with my longstanding interest in serving my community. I have represented individuals, businesses and government agencies on both the plaintiff's and defense-side. I have worked on small pro bono matters as well as high-impact litigation for Fortune 500 companies. My skill set is well-suited to meet the demands of a trial court judge. I am a strong writer and have briefed and argued countless complex legal issues in state and federal courts. Over the years, I have developed strong negotiating skills, and I am effective in reaching settlements. I know that listening is the most important skill for a lawyer or judge.

Most relevant, however, is my experience as arbitrator and volunteer temporary judge for the Los Angeles Superior Court. As an arbitrator and a volunteer temporary judge, I have presided over more than 1,000 cases throughout Los Angeles County. I have listened to the parties, evaluated the evidence and issued prompt, clear and consistent decisions. My reputation is one of balance -- operating efficiently while paying careful attention to the details and always treating those before me with dignity and respect.

Based on my strong character, solid skills and wide-ranging experience, I would be honored to devote myself as a steward of justice as a Los Angeles Superior Court Judge.

2. Do you believe that all citizens have adequate access to legal help and the legal system? If not, what can be done to provide wider and better access?

I am deeply committed to equal access to justice. Unfortunately, it has become common for individuals to represent themselves because they have no alternative. I am an avid believer in the court partnering with non-profit organizations committed to serving this need by offering assistance through clinics or pro bono services supported by the private bar. Justice is for everyone--not just those who can afford to pay for an attorney. Being at the center of the process, I believe the court is the logical place to start.

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Responses to questions asked of each candidate are reproduced as submitted to the League.  Candidates' answers are presented as submitted.

Read the answers from all candidates (who have responded).

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Created from information supplied by the candidate: May 25, 2012 07:40
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