The Armenian Bar Association has selected New York City to host the 13th Annual Meet-ing on April 19-21, 2002.  The date of the meeting has been chosen to coordinate with the annual Armenian Martyrs Day gathering that is typically held in Times Square.  The last time the Armenian Bar held its meeting in New York was in 1996, and it was considered a resounding success. The next meeting is guaranteed to be even better in light of the energetic group of members who have been coordinating the event over the last few months.

  The events will be centered at the Association of the Bar of the City of New York, 42 West 44th Street, right in the heart of thecity. New York has been and will always be a symbol of our country's greatness. The Armenian Bar Association is proud to hold its meeting in a city with so much courage.

   Please visit www.ArmenianBar.org for periodic updates on program and location.  To register, please mail a business card and a check in the amount of $175.00, payable to the Armenian Bar Association, to P.O. Box 29111, Los Angeles, CA  90029.  Please add a late fee of $25.00 if registering after March 18, 2002.  The Association has made special arrangements with the New York Marriott East Side Hotel, 525 Lexington Avenue, (888-236-2427).  Mention the Armenian Bar Association to receive the special room rate of $179.00.


LETTER FROM THE CHAIR
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   September 11 has affected each of us profoundly.  It seems both unnecessary and keenly necessary to comment on that day and subsequent events.  
   Like many who do not live in New York, Washington or central Pennsyl-vania, I spent September 11th in shock and glued to the television. On September 12, my first thoughts were of our New York-based Board members, and, when we quickly learned that they were (under the circumstances) shocked but fine, we were all relieved.  As time went on, we learned of Association members who were personally affected.  One of our members from the state of Washington lost a member of his sister's family; and our members who live and work in the District of Columbia and New York have endured substantial hardships.
  Yet, in the finest tradition of the Armenian Bar Association, the show goes on.  Immediately after September 11th, our members who planned to attend our Mid-Year Meeting in Yerevan overwhelmingly conveyed their wishes that the meeting should proceed.  And carry on we did.  As you will see from the report in this newsletter, our Mid-Year Meeting in Yerevan, though small in numbers, was a great success.  The Association extends its deepest thanks to Tom Samuelian and Tamar Hajian, who hosted the Mid-Year Meeting at Arlex International's offices in Yerevan, and to each Association member who braved the airports to travel overseas in mid-September.
  In the same vein, our 2002 Annual Meeting in New York is shaping up to be one of our best ever.  Our main meeting will be on Saturday at the Association of the Bar of the City of New York, with special events on Friday and Saturday evenings.  We look forward to the opportunity to gather in and support New York at this significant time.
  One final note: It has been painful to see the rancor among some members of the Armenian community in recent weeks.  It is easy to understand why the United States' policy towards Armenia and its neighbors is of great importance to the Armenian community.  It is more difficult to comprehend why Armenians in the diaspora cannot respect each other's viewpoints.  With pride and admiration for our members, I note that within our Bar Association, the civil exchange of ideas prevails.  Our Association's tradition of debate and democracy has served us well during the past several months, as it has for twelve years, and continues to bring us the respect and admiration of the Armenian community as a whole.  Let's keep up the good work at this critical time.


Legal Developments from Armenia 
A World of Change in 2001
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As reported in our last review of legal developments, Armenia, like many of the other CIS countries, is now adopting its second and, in some cases, third, generation of laws.  Along with new laws, Armenia has done a great deal to get rid of the old Soviet underbrush of orders and regulations.  It was recently reported that Armenia has repealed more former Soviet orders and regulations than any other republic. 

In addition to the general desire to improve the legal environment, Armenia's accession to the Council of Europe has provided a great impulse for harmonization with European Community law.  A whole range of laws from intellectual property and cultural heritage to criminal law and the constitution are under review for compliance with European standards.  

The year began with a tax cut for both corporate and personal income taxes, reducing the highest rate to 20% in most instances.   At the same time, the repeal of certain value added tax deductions, particularly for imports of capital goods, has stymied some investors.  Efforts are underway to address the impact of the tax code changes and there are reports of a major tax system overhaul along the lines of the simplified and reduced tax rates that proved successful in Russia this past year.

This year, several new institutions were established to promote investment.   The Law on Protection of Fair Competition established a Fair Trade Commission that will promote fair competition and protection of trademarks, among other measures, to protect the competitive market.  The Commission has just been formed and it is expected that issues of trademark infringement, usually handled as civil actions under Armenia's recently beefed-up Trademark Law, will be more directly and timely resolved through the Commission.  Also, a new High Business Council has been established headed by the Prime Minister and the President's Chief Economic Adviser to sort out problems not yet adequately addressed by Armenia's transitional law.

In another development that foreign investors should welcome, a new economic court system has been established.   This specialized court will operate on the first two levels of Armenia's three-tier system - the court of first instance and court of appeals.  Specially trained judges will be appointed to handle these cases and there are reports that their opinions will be published.  There are also plans to publish all of the cassation court decisions (third tier - court of final decision) cases.

Land issues involved in privatization of urban properties will also become easier.  Until the new Land Code was adopted this summer, most urban land could only be held as a long-term (usually 99 year) leasehold.   Soon it will be possible to hold land in fee simple.  This should facilitate mortgaging and promote greater liquidity in financial markets, as Hernando de Soto has pointed out in his recent study of impediments to economic development, The Mystery of Capital.  Church properties have also drawn attention during this 1700th Anniversary Celebration with the restoration of 150 churches and monasteries to church ownership and/or possession by Government resolution.  The process has had a few snags, but the Church is optimistic that this is a good beginning.  

It should also be noted that now most of the Deeds Offices around the country are computerized, greatly reducing title and lien searches. Also, in many cases, new deeds have been issued as they change hands for the first time since the new titling system was adopted.   For those skeptics among us, and I count myself among them at times, the system seems to work. Not only is it possible to find out whether a property is mortgaged or otherwise encumbered, the Deeds Office (Cadastre) will not issue a permit for leasing, sale or pledge if there is such an encumbrance unless the security holder has filed written consent to the transaction. 

Another development that will cheer local and foreign investors is the new streamlined Business Registration Act.   In a move toward a system of notice filing style registration, the registration of new companies and charter (articles of incorporation) amendments will now take less time and require fewer documents and formalities. In most cases it takes less than a week to form a new entity or to make a charter change.  The same system will be extended to non-profit organizations.   

Armenia's high tech sector has not stayed on the sidelines.  As one of the most promising sectors in Armenia's economy, high tech, in particular software developers, have lobbied for changes to bring Armenia's copyright laws into compliance with international standards.  This fall a package of amendments to the Copyright Law and Civil Code will clear the way for a "work for hire" doctrine and clarify moral rights so that Armenian software developers can provide international buyers with the kinds of licenses and rights that they get from suppliers in other countries.  

As we enter the fall legislative session, several more legal reforms are in the offing.  A major revision of the Joint Stock Company Law that will simplify corporate governance and facilitate transactions in corporate securities is expected as is the adoption of a new Limited Liability Company law.  A new law on Public (Non-Profit) Organizations is now approaching completion through a process that is noteworthy for its openness and public participation.  There have been several lively hearings organized by the NGO community, World Learning (a USAID funded program to strengthen NGOs), and the Ministry of Justice, and the draft law has been refined considerably through this process.  Hopefully, this will become a model for future legislative reform efforts.

New laws have also been adopted in the field of television and radio, and starting this fall auctions may begin for radio and television frequencies under the new laws.  

Efforts are also underway to bring Armenia's legislation on cultural heritage, preservation and restoration of natural and historical sites into line with European standards.  This will also entail measures to protect and promote museums, libraries, cinema, publication, archives, and performing and graphic arts.

While much has been accomplished so far in 2001, everyone, especially investors, are looking forward to more rapid conformance with European and international standards in the coming year in such areas as employment law, telecom, tax and customs administration, and civil service reform. 

Tom Samuelian is founding and managing partner of Arlex International Ltd., a public interest law firm in Armenia, since 1998.  Tom is also on the Board of Governors for the Armenian Bar Association.  Tom can be reached at +374 3742-580-213, or by e-mail at tsamuelian@arlex.am.

MEMBERS IN THE NEWS AND ON THE MOVE
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Marianne Ajemian was recently honored as the subject of an executive profile in the Boston Business Journal (November 2-8, 2001).  The article traced Marianne's successful career handling complicated real estate matters. Marianne is a partner at Nutter McClennen & Fish LLP, and is also the President of New England Women in Real Estate.  Marianne holds a JD degree from Boston University Law School and a BA degree in Political Science from Wellesley College.

Robert Cannuscio recently spoke on the topic of Proactive Intellectual Property Protection as part of a seminar on Current Tax and Legal Issues for High Technology Companies jointly hosted by Drinker Biddle & Reath and Price Water House Coopers in New Jersey.  Robert is a partner in the Intellectual Property Group of Drinker Biddle & Reath.  He is also co-chair of the Armenian Bar's Newsletter Committee and a member of the Board of Governors. He can be reached at 215-988-3303 or by e-mail at cannusre@dbr.com.

Harry S. Cherken, Jr., the Armenian Bar Association's prior Chair, was recently on the faculty of the 5th Annual Real Estate Institute Seminar sponsored by the Pennsylvania Bar Association held on November 15-16, 2001 in Philadelphia.  Harry provided a presentation on "Current Issues and Commercial Title Insurance."

Onnig Dombalagian recently started a new job at the Securities and Exchange Commission in Washington, D.C.

Student member Macrui Dostourian received one of the eight Best Advocate Awards given to members of the Class of 2003 at the University of Chicago Law School.  The award was based on her first-year work in oral and written advocacy.  Along with the award came a $1,000 stipend.

Greta M. Doumanian has recently changed jobs.  Greta now works for The Kaplan Group Ltd, at 180 North LaSalle, 28th Floor, Chicago, IL  60601. Greta can be reached at (312) 606-3040.

Dan Maljanian, wife Patrice and daughter Adriana welcome the birth of their newest family member, baby Aram, born in July, 2001.  Dan is the owner of AnnMeme's Bakery & Cafe in Alexandria, Virginia.  The Armenian Bar Association wishes Dan, Patrice, Adriana and little Aram all the best.

Kaufman & Moomjian, LLC continues to grow with the addition of another attorney.  Gary T. Moomjian is a named partner in the Long Island, N.Y. law firm that represents public companies, middle market, growth-oriented technology and other significant private companies, and investment banking firms.  Gary  has extensive background and expertise in corporate, securities, finance, mergers and acquisition transactions and provides general representation to public and private companies.  Gary is an NYU School of Law graduate, and was formerly a partner in Breslow & Walker, LLP and an associate at Wachtell, Lipton Rosen & Katz.

Student member John Kevork Shamsey has recently completed an article on the Armenian Genocide under the tutelage of noted Human Rights Law professor Burns H. Weston.  The article, entitled "80 Years Too Late: The International Criminal Court and the Century's First Genocide," will be published in the Spring 2002 issue of the Florida State Journal of Transnational Law & Policy (volume 11).  The article discusses the recent formation of the ICC and its importance, places the perpetrators of the Genocide on "trial" within the framework of the tribunal, and suggests that a symbolic-decision making process by such a body would be beneficial in the international arena.  John is completing his 3rd year at Florida State University College of Law, and is currently a law clerk at Hopping, Green & Sams in Tallahassee.  He can be reached at jshamsey @ yahoo.com.

Armand Tinkerian recently won a significant litigation against Transamerica Occidental Life Insurance Company and the Health Care Financing Administration (Medicare) in a published opinion in which Armand was able to establish that both Transamerica and Medicare acted illegally when they refused to reimburse Armand's physician client. Armand can be reached at 818-503-9711.

Ara Tramblian was recently honored with an appointment by the Governor of Virginia to the newly created Armenian Advisory Committee.  Ara will be in charge of the Committee the goal of which is to advise the Governor regarding the development of economic, professional, cultural, governmental, and educational links between Virginia and Armenia.  Ara will be focusing particularly on the legal/judicial area.  If anyone has any thoughts/suggestions (whether legal/judicial or otherwise) for the Commission to look into and recommend to the Governor, please contact Ara at 703-228-3100 or atramb@co.arlington.va.us.

Lucy Varpetian, has joined the Office of the Glendale City Attorney as an Assistant City Attorney in a transactional capacity.  Lucy can be reached at the Office of the Glendale City Attorney, 613 East Broadway, Suite 210, Glendale, CA 91206, phone 818-548-2080, fax 818-547-3402.

We would like to welcome our newest future Armenian Bar member, Tobias

Abraham Zinner, who was born on June 25, 2001 to Sarah Leah Whitson and her husband Josh Zinner.  Sarah Leah is a member of the Board of Governors of the Armenian Bar Association and Co-chair of the Armenia Rights Watch Committee. Sarah Leah is also a lawyer with Goldman, Sachs & Co. in New York.  The Armenian Bar Association wishes Sarah Leah, Josh, little Tobias and his big sister, Lena Annabelle, all the best.

PRACTICE PROFILE - REAL ESTATE LAW
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  Property denotes the ownership or right of use, control, and disposition that one may lawfully exercise over things, objects, or land. Generally property falls within one of two categories: real property and personal property. The term real property typically refers to land, which includes not only the ground we stand on but everything that is of a permanent nature above and below the ground. This includes structures and minerals.
        Of course, there are numerous subcategories of real property. Some of the key subcategories include freehold estates, nonfreehold estates, concurrent estates, future interests, specialty estates, and incorporeal interests.
        States, for the most part, have exclusive jurisdiction over the land within their borders, thereby providing each with the right to establish its own laws to govern the control, use and disposition of its land.
        Those practicing real estate law are skilled at navigating the various rules that may be applicable in the states in which they practice. The following is a list of the members of the Armenian Bar Associate who practice in the field of real estate law.




Adrienne I. Krikorian
Law Office of Adrienne I. Krikorian
P.O. Box 8936
Calabasas, CA  91372-8936
818-347-6107
818-347-1607
AkrikorianEsq@socal.rr.com
Jurisdictions:  California (1989); All Federal courts in California; 9th District Court of Appeals
In addition to holding a JD degree from Loyola Law School - Los Angeles (1989), Adrienne also holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Dental Hygiene from the University of Southern California (1971).

Adrienne has been practicing Real Estate law for 11 years.  Her practice also involves Mediation and Arbitration (Alternate Dispute Resolution), and Condominium and Homeowners Association Law.

What you would like to tell law school graduates about what to expect in the profession?

The legal profession should not be about earning a lot of money.  High paying jobs will often cause early burn out.  Law students should be prepared to accept the challenge of using the skills which will be gradually acquired after law school to help their clients achieve a specific goal. The gratification that comes from a client who is satisfied with the result you help them achieve should be, and is for me, the most rewarding part of the practice of law.

Please describe an interesting event that occurred in your legal profession.

The most "interesting event" for me was working with homeowners associations after the 1994 Northridge Earthquake to assist them in recovering from the expansive disaster which affected their lives.  My practice of law expanded as a result into areas, such as insurance bad faith, construction, disaster relief, exposure to government agencies such as FEMA and the Small Business Administration, etc. that I probably never would have otherwise worked in. My skills in working with people under stressful situations were challenged and refined, and my perspective of my future goals as a lawyer changed dramatically.  That event was the catalyst for me to start my own practice, which is now in its fifth year.




Terrance S. Martiesian
159 Elmgrove Avenue
Providence, RI 02906
Tel.: 401-421-0480
E-mail:terrance.martiesian@verizon.net

In addition to holding a law degree from Suffolk University Law School (1969), Terrance also has a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Rhode Island (1966).

Terrance has been practicing Real Estate law for 31 years.  He also practices in the fields of  Bankruptcy, Collection Corporate, Family Insurance, Labor, Employment, Landlord/Tenant, Litigation, Personal Injury, Social Security, Trust, Probate, and Estate Planning Law.

What you would like to tell law school graduates about what to expect in the profession?

There is considerable personal satisfaction to be gained but in the State of Rhode Island don't expect it to be easy i.e. slow population growth and large number of attorneys and do not neglect community service or sacrifice your family for a profession; try not to compromise your principles and always remember you are a member of a most honorable profession.

Please describe an interesting event that occurred in your legal profession.

Several years ago I represented a teenager who was about to be sent to the boy's training school during Christmas week.  He had come from a troubled family and I offered as a substitute to incarceration that I would take him under my custody until the next scheduled Court date in January; the Court granted my request and my wife and I had a guest for the holidays.  This teenager later straightened his life out and became a valued member of society.

Charles Barsam
Law Offices of Charles Barsam
610 Newport Center Drive, Suite 700
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Tel: 949-644-1569
Fax: 949-759-6701
E-mail:  cbarsam@aol.com
Jurisdictions:  California (1980)

 In addition to holding a law degree from Hastings College of Law 1980, Charles also has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from UCLA (1977)

Charles has been practicing Real Estate Law for 21 years.  Charles also practices in the fields of  commercial transactions and litigation.

What is the most satisfying part of your profession?

Providing cost effective legal service for my clients with results that exceed their expectations.

What you would like to tell law school graduates about what to expect in the profession?

That the practice of law is multi-facets: you have to be able to relate to people and intelligently operate a law business.

Please describe an interesting event that occurred in your legal profession.

Having the Court of Appeal overturn an unfavorable ruling by the Los Angeles County Superior Court, which ultimately resulted in a significant recovery for my client.

Paul G. Garjian
Law Offices of Paul G. Garjian
32 Mercer Street
Hackensack, NJ  07601  
Phone:  201-343-8822   
Fax:  201-525-1133
E-mail:  Paul@HyeLawyers.com   
Jurisdictions:  New Jersey (1990); New York (2000); District of Columbia (1997)

Paul has been practicing Real Estate Law for 5 years.  Paul also practices in the fields of Bankruptcy, Purchase and Sale of Businesses; Co-ops & Condominiums; Wills; Guardianships; and Criminal Defense.

In addition to his law degree from Valparaiso University School of Law (1990), Paul also holds a Bachelor of Arts from The American University - Washington, DC (1995).

Law-Related Honors/Distinguishing Achievements:  Graduate, Justice Morris Pashman American Inn of Court.

What is the most satisfying part of your profession?
Problem solving for clients and reaching favorable resolutions.

Please describe an interesting event that occurred in your legal profession?
I represented a young man indicted, along with six co-defendants, with multiple counts of drug possession with intent to distribute same.  The most serious counts constituted 2nd degree crimes.  Undercover police had made audiotapes of drug buys.  The case progressed for two years, and ultimately the indictment against my client and two of his co-defendants was dismissed.

Alex Gilanians
Halversen & Gilanians
216 South Louise Street
Glendale CA 91205
Tel.: 818-548-1816
Fax: 818-548-0049
E-mail:  gilanian@pacbell.net
Jurisdiction(s): California (1995); US District Ct (1995)

Alex has been practicing Real Estate law for 6 years.  Alex's practice also includes Business litigation and Construction disputes.

In addition to holding a law degree from Glendale University College of Law (1995), Alex also holds a Bachelor of Science degree from University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario Canada (1986) and a Bachelor of Science degree in law from Glendale University College of Law (1994).

What is the most satisfying part of your profession? 

Helping clients resolve their disputes and teaching them how to avoid the same or similar disputes in the future.  Assisting and advising clients in their business and construction practice to foresee pitfalls, and learn how to think as a lawyer or businessman to avoid litigation.

What you would like to tell law school graduates about what to expect in the profession?

It is a very challenging profession to engage in, yet it has many rewards, professionally and personally.   As a real estate attorney, the graduate must expect to deal with a lot of emotional clients, since the dispute generally deals with a person's most valued investment - their home - and should also be aware that it is a document intensive practice.  The practice of construction law is also very interesting and very challenging, as it offers the opportunity to work with people from different walks of life and provides the opportunity to learn a great deal in the field of building an construction.

Nicole M. Marginian
Quarles & Brady LLP
4501 Tamiami Trail North,
Suite 300,
Naples, Florida 34103
Tel:  941-262-5959
Fax:  941-434-4939
E-mail:  nmm@quarles.com
Jurisdictions: Florida (1999) U.S. District Court, Middle District of Florida (2000)

Nicole has been practicing Real Estate law for 2 years.  Nicole also practices in the field of Adoptions.

In addition to her law degree from Stetson University College of Law (1999, magnum cum laude), Nicole holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Florida (1996).

Law-Related Honors/Distinguishing Achievements:  Class rank in law school: 1;  Notes and Comments Editor, Stetson Law Review; Phi Delta Phi Legal Honor Society; Intern for the Honorable Susan C. Bucklew, United States District Court, Middle District of Florida, Tampa Division; National Dean's List.

What is the most satisfying part of your profession?

I find my job extremely satisfying because as a lawyer I have the unique ability to clarify issues that laypersons get extremely frustrated about.  I enjoy being able to put people at ease and alleviate stress their lives.

What would you like to see changed in the practice of Real Estate Law?

I would like to see lawyers change their priority of making the most money possible to first making the client happy.

Michael Almasian         Tel: 315-769-9264   

Charles M. Arakelian    Tel: 201-967-9666

Karekin Arzoomanian   Tel: 212-696-1469

Sem Aykanian              Tel: 508-485-4882

Rafik Ayvazi                Tel: 323-655-1133

Armen Baghdasarian      Tel: 818-549-1515

Khoren Bandazian         Tel: 201-487-3800

Joseph L. Basralian       Tel: 201-487-3800

Sara Bedirian                Tel: 310-288-9797

Linda J. Berberian         Tel: 714-834-9322

Robert Bogigian             Tel: 317-462-1401

Lucille J. Boston            Tel: 310-822-9038

Harry S. Cherken, Jr.      Tel: 215-988-2721

Neal N. Chilingirian         Tel: 310-208-8282

Rudy Dekermenjian         Tel: 818-952-9606

Mark Gabrellian               Tel: 201-845-4100

Shahen Hairapetian          Tel: 626-441-6899

Arthur Hazarabedian         Tel: 213-621-2000

H. Joseph Kanimian          Tel: 818-550-3030

Matthew M. Keshishian      Tel: 201-387-8491

Gary R. Khachian              Tel: 203-899-8900

Raffi Khatchadourian         Tel: 818-224-3737

Donald Koundakjian           Tel: 781-862-3970

Andrea MacIntosh WhitewayTel: 202-942-5863

Jack C. Mardoian                Tel: 847-295-4100 

Siva Martin                         Tel: 773-283-5688

Carla Matta-Kotoyantz          Tel: 310-392-5000

Harry Missirlian                    Tel: 847-982-0020

Armen Garo Mitilian              Tel: 310-473-6400

Edward V. Murachanian          Tel: 732-477-3030

Sonya Nersessian                    Tel: 781-899-7866 

Diron M. Ohanian                  Tel: 818-547-5000

Chris Safarian                       Tel: 213-229-9526

Mark S. Simonian                   Tel: 213-683-5230

Frank V. Zerunyan                  Tel: 213-626-2311

 

Arlex International Ltd.
Hosts Mid-Year Gathering In Yerevan, Armenia
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They braved the erratic airline schedules, international jitters, and emotions in the aftermath of September 11 terror to make the pilgrimage to Yerevan to attend the Armenian Bar Association's Mid-year meeting.  Those in attendance included organization stalwarts such as the Board's Armen Hovannisian, Jim Derian and Hon. Aram Serverian, Dean Shahinian who left his Senate office in DC behind, and Marshall Moushigian who traveled from Fresno.  Also in attendance were our new members from Los Angeles, Ara Babaian, Gagig Baghdassarian and Arthur Minassian.  However, members in attendance were not limited to those visiting from the United States.  Also in attendance were Sarine Der Kaloustian who flew in from Beirut, and Raymond and Anouche Yezeguelian, who left Paris early to host a wonderful French dinner at Yerevan's Monte Cristo restaurant for our members prior to the meeting date.  Board Member Tom Samuelian and law partner Tamar Hajian made the offices, staff and resources of Arlex International Ltd. available to the Armenian Bar visitors throughout their stay.

Although the tragic events of September 11th prevented many from making the journey to Yerevan for the meeting, those who did make it, including spouses, local guests and attorneys (including some past annual meeting guests), enjoyed a morning of in-depth discussions about the state of the various laws in Armenia.  The members and guests also were able to spend a significant part of the day enjoying events centering around the 1700th anniversary of state Christianity.

After morning coffee, the group toured the neighboring office of the Armenian Volunteer Corps (AVC).  The AVC's talented young director, Jason Demerjian, described the day-to-day activities that the AVC is involved in and explained how the AVC was modeled after the Peace Corps concept.  Jason also introduced the group to some of the dedicated volunteers who run the various programs.  The morning continued as the group met with local litigators and human rights lawyers, who provided members with an  inside view of what a local American law firm like Arlex International actually does both in business practice and as a public interest firm.

As noon arrived, the members were treated to a real Armenian hot luncheon of fresh summer vegetable dolma, local cheeses, olives, bread right out of the oven, local fruit juices (rose hip, apricot, peach) and, of course, tree ripened peaches, grapes, apples, and pastry in the company of bright young people from all over Armenia.  The meeting took on a cozy and informal feeling as the Armenian Bar members enjoyed the traditional Armenian food, hummed along with Gor, a singer and guitarist from Vanadzor, and watched video highlights of changes in Armenia.

After lunch, the attendees boarded a bus for Etchmiadzin, where they had a private audience with Catholicos Karekin II at his residence (Veharan).  Members asked questions on topics ranging from the church's present-day mission to stem cell research and women's issues.  His Holiness graciously entertained us and presented each member individually with a silver commemorative medal.  The most touching moment occurred when Tom Samuelian presented a gift to the Catholicos of the first copy of his new translation of St. Gregory of Narek's Prayer Book into English.  The Vehapar was visibly moved.



The group was then treated to a special tour of the museum and private collections at the residence, after which they joined the Catholicos for a group picture.

The visit culminated with the group's participation, along with clergy and laymen of many faiths all over the world, in an ecumenical procession from the Veharan to consecrate the new outdoor altar at the entry to Etchmiadzin where the holy Muron (Chrism) was to be prepared in a few days.

On that warm and sunny day, after much pomp and ceremony, the members returned to Yerevan, accepting the generous offers of Attys. Haikanush Parsamian, Hovig Asrian and others to arrange tours, tickets to commemorative events, legal visits, etc. in the days ahead.  Everyone left with plenty of souvenirs, including "Armenian Ori-gins," a recent Arlex International publication.  But more important, everyone left with a warm feeling of good will.

Unfortunately, because many members could not attend as a result of the tragic events of September 11th, receptions planned at the American Bar Association/CEELI office and the American University of Armenia were cancelled, as well as the evening reception.  The money that the Armenian Bar Association saved from the cancellation of the receptions was donated to the Hover Choir, St. Katolike Church and the children of the Zadig Orphan-age.  The Armenian Bar Association ex-tends its thanks to Arlex International for its generosity and hospitality to those who made the extraordinary effort to travel to Armenia for the meeting.



Armenian Bar Mourns Loss of  Richard Amerian
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    The Armenian Bar Association joins the rest of the Armenian community in mourning the loss of Justice Richard Amerian who passed away on November 4,  2001.  He was not only a member of the Armenian Bar, but also a friend of the  Bar.

    Richard was born on December 11, 1937, to Nishan Amerian and Angel  Bedrosian in Los Angeles.  An exceptional student throughout elementary and  high school, he was awarded a scholarship to USC, where in 1959 he earned his  Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science, Magna Cum Laude. 

    After college, Richard went on for a law degree, also on scholarship at  USC.  He was Managing Editor of the Southern California Law Review.  He  graduated in 1962, Order of the Coif, and was selected as Phi Delta Phi  Regional Graduate of the Year.

    In 1970, then-Governor Reagan appointed Richard to the Los Angeles  Municipal Court at the age of 32.  Richard was the first Armenian to be  selected judge in Southern California and one of the youngest ever.  He was  elevated by Governor Brown to the Superior Court in 1978 and the Court of  Appeal in 1982, where he served as an Associate Justice until he returned to private practice in 1984.  In 1982, Richard was asked to sit as a Pro Tem  Justice on the State Supreme Court. 

    Richard's dedication did not end with the law.  He was also devoted to  the Armenian Church.  He was a lifetime member of St. James Armenian Church  where he was instrumental in construction of a school building on the church  grounds.  He served as a delegate to the Diocesan Assembly for over 15 years, and for several years was Chairman of the Diocesan Assembly of the Western  Diocese of the Armenian Church of North America.  From its establishment in  1979 though 1988, Richard was Chairman of the Board of the Endowment Fund of  the Western Diocese, Armenian Church of North America.  Between 1985 and 1992 Richard served on the Board of Directors of the Armenian Assembly of America.

    In 1972, Richard married Lynnette Jamgochian.  During their 21 year  marriage, they raised two children, Michael Richard and Melissa Lynne.   Currently, Michael is an attorney in Los Angeles with the law firm of  O'Donnell & Shaeffer LLP while Melissa is completing her final year of

undergraduate studies at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. 

    In addition to his children, Richard is survived by his sister, Frances  Bozajian, and her husband, Bob; his brother, Roger, and his wife, Mary Lee;  and his brother Jim.

    In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Justice  Richard Amerian Scholarship Endowment Fund, USC Law School, Room 100, Los Angeles, CA 90089-0071.



Armenian Bar Association Hosts Wonderful Evening in Toronto
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 The evening promised to be cold and windy, but that did not deter the 20 or so members and guests from attending a dinner hosted by Vasken Khabayan, the Armenian Bar Association's Canadian Liaison in Toronto, Ontario, on October 27, 2001.  Gathered at the Courthouse Market Grille, a former court house in the city center that was built in 1852 with its own jail cells located right next to the bar, the venue was an appropriate gathering for some of the finest legal minds in the Canadian-Armenian community.  It turned out to be a very warm evening regardless of the outside environment, as some of the senior members of the Bar met with the more junior members and the many law students who had travelled from law schools all across southern Ontario to attend the evening's event.



A particularly warm welcome was provided by the Armenian Bar's current Chair, Lisa Esayian, who travelled all the way from Chicago to participate in the weekend's events.  This impressed many of the attendees, who recognized the commitment of the Armenian Bar to its members all across the continent.  The members and guests then moved into a private dining room upstairs where they ate a wonderful dinner and finally ended the evening in the grand ballroom where the former courtrooms used to be.  They were met with a Halloween party in full swing, which many of the members and guests enjoyed into the wee hours of the morning.

The event was quite a success, as many pledged to join the Armenian Bar Association and were ready to attend the upcoming annual meeting in New York City in April 2002, as well as the mid-year meeting scheduled next fall in Montréal, Québec.

Vasken Khabayan is one of the Canadian Liaisons for the Armenian Bar Association.  Vasken can be reached in Canada at (416) 777-1400 x 2 or by     e-mail at vaskenk@netcom.ca.

ABA Looking For Legal Liaisons In Armenia
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The Central and East European Law Initiative (CEELI), a public service project of the American Bar Association, is currently seeking experienced attorneys for the following positions in Armenia:

 Criminal Law liaison:  Coordinate criminal law-related activities; and organize interactive training workshops for prosecutors, judges, and defense attorneys on topics such as the drafting and implementation of modern criminal justice legislation, supervision of investigations, individual rights, white collar crime, political corruption, organized crime, and jury trial procedures. 

Rule Of Law Liaison:  Coordinate CEELI rule of law related activities; identify, develop, and implement technical legal assistance projects in partnership with Armenia's legal community and government representatives; organize interactive training workshop on topics such as creating an independent judiciary, drafting ethics codes, revising administrative procedures, and developing judicial training programs; and manage legal reform programs focusing on continuing legal education, law practice management and bar development.

The positions are generally for one year and are located in Yerevan. To receive an application/information packet, please contact the Liaison and Legal Specialist Department at the following:

    email:  ceeli@abanet.org

  phone:  1-800-98CEELI or (202) 662-1754

       fax:  (202) 662-1597

    URL:  http://www.abanet.org/ceeli.


NY Life Update
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        On October 30, 2001, the plaintiffs in the Marootian v. New York Life case won a resounding victory when the judge denied NY Life's motion to dismiss.  In a well-reasoned written opinion that both parties had been long awaiting, the judge rejected defendant's arguments that California was not the proper venue for this litigation.  This ruling deals a significant blow to NY Life in its quest to have the case thrown out.

D.C. Area Garden Party Brings Together Old Friends And New Acquaintances
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In June, Executive Committee Member Lisa Barsoomian and husband Rod Rosenstein hosted a barbecue party at their Bethesda, Maryland home for Bar

Association members and their families and friends.  The garden gathering brought together old friends and new acquaintances, including Sara Anjargol-ian, Alicia Barsoumian, Milton Gelenian, Dan Maljanian, Ara Tramblian and Dean Shahinian.  Members enjoyed Armenian food and terrific company on a lovely summer day. Similar events will be planned for D.C. area members in the future.


Armenian Bar Is Now An Approved CLE Provider
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    After a long and drawn out process, Michael Babikian, Chair of the Continuing Legal Education Commit-tee, has obtained "approved provider" status for the Armenian Bar Associa-tion.  As an "approved provider," the Armenian Bar Association can now offer CLE seminars without having to obtain authorization with each new event.

 Recently, the Armenian Bar Associa-tion offered a CLE course at Glendale University, where Michael is an adjunct professor of tax.  Glendale University has generously offered its facilities for future CLE events and the Continuing Legal Education Committee is already planning additional CLE events for early spring.


Armenian Bar Mourns The Loss of John O'Connor
- An Armenian By Choice  
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The Armenian community lost one of its finest with the untimely death of John O'Connor at age 46 on November 30.  John was, in his own words, Armenian by Choice (ABC).  Whether campaigning for Congress from Massachusetts's  8th congressional district or during fundraising for environmental causes or while lobbying for Armenia, John remained an activist and community organizer.  He was the author of three books on the environment and food policy, and the chairman of Gravestar, Inc. as well as founder of Greenworks, an environmental incubator in Cambridge, MA.

        John was born in Connecticut and graduated from Clark University in Worcester, MA.  He relished in community organization and founded grass

roots efforts to combat environmental ills throughout his career.  He was a tough fighter with a warm and generous heart, a smiling happy warrior who befriended and nurtured countless disadvantaged young people during his life.  His loyalty to friends and family were legend, and the streets of Cambridge and Harvard University's Sanders Theater were filled with mourners waiting to pay tribute to this wonderful man.

        John worked tirelessly to gain public recognition of injustice, especially the Irish Famine.  When he married Carolyn Mugar over a decade ago, John added the Armenian cause to his own, and took pride in calling himself an Armenian by Choice.  John's passion was to leave the world a better and more just place, and his legacy is an inspiration to us all.


Armenbar Participates In "Bench And Bar" Meeting In Los Angeles
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     The Armenian Bar Association participated in the November 13, 2001 meeting of the "Bench and Bar" program of Los Angeles County.  The event was held at the Central District of the Los Angeles County Superior Court in downtown Los Angeles.

        The purpose of the Bench and Bar is to create an avenue for members of the judiciary to interact with practicing attorneys to exchange ideas on various issues.  Through Bench and Bar meetings, jurists receive input from the members of the bar on their concerns of the day, such as civil procedure changes and the effects of the delay reduction statutes.

        Those in attendance included several distinguished jurists from the Central District Court, including the moderator, Judge Wendell Mortimer, Jr., as well as various representatives from the local bar associations. The Armenian Bar Association Past Chair, Vicken I. Simonian, attended on behalf of the Association.  Other ethnic bar organizations represented included the Iranian-American, Asian-American, and African-American Bar Associations.  Local influential bars associations, including the Beverly Hills Consumer Attorneys of Los Angeles and the Los Angeles County Bar Associations, were also in attendance.

        Recently elected Los Angeles City District Attorney Steve Cooley made an appearance at the meeting.  Mr. Cooley is a friend of  the Armenian Bar Associa-tion, and has attended many of the Los Angeles receptions.

        Judge Mortimer started the meeting with introductory remarks, then turned the floor over to Judge Judith Chirlin, who discussed 21st century technology in the courtroom.  Her court is one of a few that is equipped to

handle computers and video presentations in jury trials. The meeting adjourned with the various participants interacting and exchanging ideas.  Possible joint activities with other bar associations was discussed.  The Armenian Bar Association plans to continue to attend the Bench and Bar meetings in the future.  The group meets once every two months.

COMMITTEE HIGHLIGHTS
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The following are highlights from the Committee Reports presented at the Mid-year meeting in September, 2001.

Armenia Rights Watch Committee

Co-chairs - John Pridjian (West Coast), Sarah Leah Whitson (East Coast)

In the preceding months, Mr. Pridjian monitored the Marootian v. New York Life case and spent time speaking with plaintiffs' counsel, reviewing the pleadings and attending a preliminary hearing.  The Committee continues to focus on negative portrayals of the Armenian-American community in the media, sending letters to media representatives to correct inaccurate statements and denounce improper positions.  The Committee is considering creating a working group of several Armenian-American journalists working for the LA Times and other major news organizations to attempt to develop a strategy for further addressing negative comments made by media outlets.

Continuing Legal Education Committee

Chair - M. Michael Babikian

During the past year, the Committee has worked to attain Approved Provider status for the Armenian Bar Association with the State Bar of California. Attaining Approved Provider status will allow the Armenian Bar to more freely conduct MCLE activities.  In the past, the Armenian Bar Association was not an Approved Provider and, therefore, was required to obtain approval each time an event was sponsored.  The Armenian Bar has now satisfied the state requirements for obtaining Approved Provider status and the Committee will be involved in finalizing the application process for the remainder of the year.

Grants Committee

Chair - Amy Hoogasian

The Grants Committee recently completed a grant application to the Foundation of the State Bar of California for funds to provide "Know Your Rights" pamphlets translated into Armenian for the Armenian community in California.  Depending on the amount of funding, it is anticipated that the translated pamphlets will include the following areas of law: landlord/tenant, criminal, domestic violence, small claims court actions, immigration and family law.  Grant awards will be announced in December. The Grants Committee is looking for members who may have knowledge of or connections to the Cafesjian Foundation. 

Membership Committee

Chair - Robert G. Roomian

Last year, the Membership Committee concentrated on updating the Association's mailing list by collecting new names and updating the addresses for old names. This year, the goal has been to follow up on last year's work with a direct mail campaign to encourage non-dues paying individuals on the Association's mailing list to become dues paying members. As a result of the tremendous efforts of the Membership Committee, membership in the Association this year grew by 47%, up to 322 members whose dues are paid in full. 

Newsletter Committee

Co-Chairs - Robert E. Cannuscio and Melineh Blackwell

The Newsletter Committee has continued to maintain its schedule of between three and four editions per year.  The Practice Profile section, which was recently added to the Newsletter and highlights a different practice area in each edition, has been well-received by the membership.  The Committee anticipates continuing with this feature in future editions.  The Committee has also started to solicit advertisements for the Newsletter.  As part of that initiative, rates were established to cover various advertisement sizes for both single editions and yearly subscriptions.

Pro Bono Committee

Co-Chairs - Azniv Ksachikian, George Terterian and Christina Tusan

On April 7, 2001, the Pro Bono Committee, in conjunction with the California Attorney General's office and the Los Angeles Department of Consumer Affairs, held a community education forum on immigration consultant fraud in Hollywood, California.  The event was an effort to combat the widespread problem of fraudulent and unqualified immigration consultants and attorneys who collect substantial amounts of money for immigration-related services that are never provided.  The Committee has also embarked upon an educational project designed to inform the Armenian-American community in general, and the Southern California Armenian-American community in particular, of their legal rights and responsibilities as it pertains to five areas of law: consumer affairs immigration, public assistance, criminal law and landlord/tenant law.

Student Affairs Committee

Chair - Rouman Ebrahim

The Student Affairs Committee has been concentrating on a grass-roots effort to introduce the Armenian Bar Association to the many Armenian law students in the greater Los Angeles and Southern California area.  Recently, Mr. Ebrahim held a meeting with students at one of the Southern California law schools, which resulted in the addition of a number of new student members in the Association.

Genocide Project Committee

Chair - Professor Ann Lousin,

The Committee has been involved in locating funds of Armenians held in banks before the Genocide, especially the Ottoman Bank.  The Committee has obtained certain records of deposits within the Ottoman Bank (Banque Ottomane), a foreign-owned bank that dominated banking in the latter days of the Ottoman Empire.  Many Armenian names, as well as names of Greek, Arab and Assyrian depositors, appear on the rolls. The Committee has contacted representatives of the legal organizations of those ethnic groups in an attempt to consolidate efforts toward obtaining those funds for survivors. One difficulty, as was the case with Jewish depositors in Swiss banks, is that there are few records left in survivors' families and the old Ottoman Bank's deposits have been scattered throughout several banks in Turkey, making the funds difficult to trace.

SIDE BAR
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    The Newsletter Committee is proud to introduce this new section that will be periodically featured in the Newsletter.  Side Bar is envisioned to be a more relaxing portion of the Newsletter that addresses non-lawyerly things that members/friends are interested in and/or do (or would like to do) in those rare instances when we actually have time on our hands.  The one common theme or thread in the articles that we intend to include in Side Bar is that they are related to Armenia.  In future editions of the Newsletter, we hope to also include personal views from our members on interesting topics, such as Armenian movies and restaurants.  The Newsletter welcomes comments and suggestions for inclusion into this section.  We hope you enjoy this little reprieve from the law.

A Complete Atlas of Armenia

  It took me by surprise when I first opened the package and started thumbing through the pages.  Who would have thought that an atlas could convey hundreds of years of history too?  But that is exactly what Robert H. Hewsen's "Armenia: A Historical Atlas" does.  It is a complete chronology of the land Armenians call home, including the times and places of many battles and significant events that have defined Armenia's landscape.



    "Armenia: A Historical Atlas" was prepared as a historical compilation of the landscape of Armenia over the centuries.  While I admit I am not a historian capable of commenting on the accuracy of the information, I can tell you from a lay person's opinion that the atlas is a wonderful encyclopedia of the territorial changes that occurred in Armenia.  The book is a coffee-table book that includes over 340 11 x 17 pages, including 278 color-coded maps.  Many of the maps include not only typical information regarding towns and cities, but also details regarding battles that were fought and  locations of key Armenian structures, such as churches and historical buildings.  The detail included in the atlas alone is amazing.

    But the atlas is not limited to only maps.  There is also considerable text that accompanies each map explaining interesting features, including the commerce that the region was known for at the time, the historical structures that were built and destroyed, and the various ethnic groups that occupied the land.  "Armenia: A Historical Atlas" uses hundreds of color maps to trace Armenia's past from ancient times to the present day. The maps are packed with information about physical geography, demography, and sociopolitical, religious, cultural, and linguistic history.

    Maps included in the Atlas include Ptolemy's second-century map of Armenia, as well as, maps of Roman, Cilician, Ottoman, tsarist, and Soviet Armenia.  Other maps show the campaigns of World War I in the Caucuses, geographical maps related to the Armenian Genocide, the Armenian monuments in Turkey and Transcauca-sia, a map showing the diaspora throughout the world, various Armen-ian city plans, and plans of the great monastery of Echmiadzin in 1660, 1890, and 1990.

    The atlas is published by the University of Chicago Press and costs $150.00.  You can find more information on the atlas, including samples of the color maps and locations on where the atlas can be purchased, by visiting the University of Chicago Press' web site: www.press.uchicago.edu.
Ed.

The Armenian Prayer Book of St. Gregory of Narek

 Vem Press has recently published a Classical Armenian-English edition of The Armenian Prayer Book of St. Gregory of Narek, entitled "Speaking with God from the Depths of the Heart."  The translation of the book was done by Dr. Thomas J. Samuelian, ,a member of the Board of Governors of the Armenian Bar Association.  Dr. Samuelian holds a J.D. from Harvard Law School and a Ph.D. in Linguistics from the University of Pennsylvania.  Dr. Samuelian has also taught Modern and Classical Armenian at the University of Pennsylvania, Columbia University and St. Nersess Seminary.


    The book was introduced at a book signing on September 25, 2001 at the Hotel Armenia in Yerevan.  Dr. Samuelian's translation has received considerable fanfare.  In a TV interview on Armenia's A1+ station, Fr. Mesrop Aramyan, the Executive Director of the Ganzasar Theological Institute, stated that this work was "diligently translated from the original Classical Armenian by a scholar well-versed in the language, Bible and Armenian theology."  Fr. Dajad Davidian of Watertown, MA added that "the English translation flows, preserving the saint's lyrical poetry as if the translation came from St. Gregory's own hand."  Poet and Classical Armenian scholar Mkrtich Mkrtchyan called it "the best translation of Narekatsi in any language" in a Hayots Ashkhar review of the book.

    Written shortly before the first millennium of Christianity, the prayers of St. Gregory of Narek are considered gems of Christian literature.  St. Gregory set out to find an answer to an imponderable question: what can one offer to God, our creator, who already has everything and knows everything better than we could ever express it?  To this question he gives a humble answer - the sighs of the heart - expressed in his Book of Prayer, also called the Book of Lamentations.

    In 95 grace-filled prayers, St. Gregory draws on the exquisite potential of the Classical Armenian language to translate the pure sighs of the broken and contrite heart into an offering of words pleasing to God.  The result is an edifice of faith for the ages, unique in Christian literature for its rich imagery, its subtle theology, its Biblical erudition, and the sincere immediacy of its communication with God.  St. Gregory called his book an "encyclopedia of prayer for all nations."  It was his hope that it would serve as a guide to prayer by people of all stations around the world.

    In the translator's preface, Dr. Samuelian carries that theme forward, stating:  "It is my hope that this translation will help restore to many English-speaking Armenians this treasure from our heritage and that for Christians around the world it will be a discovery that will cause the heart to sigh.  For once there was a Saint called Gregory who wrote a book of prayer for his brethren and all nations at a monastery on the shores of Lake Van, the land of my forefathers from time immemorial."

    Vem Press is a non-profit publishing house, which is an affiliate of the preeminent Ganzasar Theological Instit-ute.  The Armenian Prayer Book of St. Gregory of Narek is available at the Diocese and Prelacy bookstores in the United States.



Armenbar Hosts Armenia's Counsel General  In Los Angeles
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     Over 70 judges, lawyers and law students attended a gala reception for the Honorable Valery Mkr-toumian, Counsel General of the Republic of Armenia, on August 20, 2001.  Armenian-owned Burger Continental in Pasadena, the site of many previous Armenian Bar receptions, was once again the venue for the event.



      The reception was co-hosted by Justice Armand Arabian, retired justice from the California Supreme Court, and Judge Dickran Tevrizian, judge of the Federal District Court.  Counsel General Mkrtoumian this year replaced Armen Melkonian (a previous guest of the Armenian Bar), and was warmly received by those in attendance.



     The event kicked off with drinks and hors d'oeuvres, followed by a signature Burger Continental diner.  Judge Tevriz-ian provided opening comments, thanking those in attendance and Armenian Bar Association Executive Director Lucy Varpetian for organizing the event.  He then introduced Justice Arabian, who presented the guest speaker. Justice Arabian encouraged a collective effort between the Armenian legal community and the Counsel General's office.


     The Counsel General commented on progress with the legal system in Armenia and the role of the Constitutional Court, and encouraged the Armenian Bar Association to continue assisting with the development of the legal system in Armenia. He praised the good work of Justice Arabian and Judge Tevrizian, and pledged to work together with the Association for the betterment of Armenia.





     The Armenian Bar has hosted several judges and dignitaries from Armenia in recent years, including judges Alvina Gy-ulumyan and Vladimir Hov-anessian of the Constitutional Court.  The Association plans to continue to have such events to promote good will and dialogue with high-ranking members of Armenia's legal community.








Forum of Armenian Lawyers in Europe to Hold 1st Meeting in France
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The Forum of Armenian Associations of Europe (FAAE), an organization started in 1998 to promote awareness and cooperation among more than 2.5 million Armenians spread throughout Scandinavia, Western, Central and Eastern Europe and the former Soviet Union, is hosting a Forum of Armenian

Lawyers.  The forum will be held in Paris, France in February 2002.  The issues slated for discussion include the establishment of information links for and a database of Armenian lawyers in Europe, as well as addressing questions related to providing legal assistance and donations to Armenia and Artsakh.

FAAE has held similar forums in the past, including an Armenian Business Forum, and maintains a FAAE-UE Contact and Information Office to address issues specifically between the European Union and Armenia.

If you have any questions related to the FAAE, please contact Irene Chaboyan at chaboyan@yahoo.com.



ARMENBAR TO AWARD STUDENT SCHOLARSHIP FOR COMMITMENT TO DOMESTIC VIOLENCE CLINIC
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  Unfortunately, battered women's organizations in Southern California regularly receive requests for assistance from Armenian-speaking victims. Here's an opportunity to help the community, learn a new area of the law or gain clinical experience.
   ArmenBar is offering one scholarship of $500 to an Armenian-speaking student in the Southern California area who agrees to provide 40 hours of assistance during the 2002-2003 academic year to victims of domestic violence. Following a three-hour training program offered by the San Fernando Valley Neighborhood Legal Service, Inc., the student will assist victims of domestic violence in obtaining restraining orders against their batterers from the California Superior Court, in Burbank, Van Nuys and San Fernando. Please contact Lucy Varpetian 323-666-6288 for more information and to request an application for the scholarship.