The Armenian Bar Association, in collaboration with the Women Lawyers Association of Los Angeles (WLALA), opened the door for more than 80 ninth grade students from Holy Martyrs Ferrahian High School to the Los Angeles Superior Court. Once through the door, the students immersed in an engaging day of civic education, mentorship, and hands-on learning about the American legal system.
This special event, held on May 1, 2025, was part of the Power Lunch Program, a dynamic initiative created by Judge Lisa O’Connell, a long-time board member of WLALA. The program introduces high school students to the judicial branch and legal careers through meaningful interactions with judges, attorneys, courtroom staff, and members of law enforcement.
The students participated in a full afternoon of educational activities, beginning with presentations about the U.S. Constitution, the court system, and the role of the judiciary in society. The program then shifted to small group discussions, where students interacted one-on-one with legal professionals—gaining valuable insights, asking thoughtful questions, and envisioning their own potential roles within the justice system.
To cap off the illuminating day, students joined in a spirited round of “Judicial Jeopardy,” a fun and interactive game that reinforced the key themes of the day while promoting critical thinking and teamwork.
“The Armenian Bar Association is honored to support programs that bring real-world experiences and civic education to Armenian youth and the broader community,” said Los Angeles Superior Court Commissioner Karine Mkrtchyan, who organized the event. “Partnering with WLALA to introduce Ferrahian High School students to the legal system aligns perfectly with the Armenian Bar’s mission of promoting access, mentorship, and leadership in the law.”
Ferrahian Principal Sossi Shanlian expressed her gratitude to the judges, the courtroom staff and the Armenian Bar Association for making the event a success. “Our students had a great experience learning more about the judicial system, while experiencing firsthand what really happens in a courtroom. It was a fascinating day!”
This event builds on the Teach Democracy Moot Court Program which the Armenian Bar Association started at Ferrahian High School in the Fall of 2024. The Moot Court Program is an academic competition in which over 2,500 high school and middle school students compete at the county-wide level. Student teams study a hypothetical case, conduct legal research, and receive guidance from volunteer attorneys in courtroom procedures and trial preparation. “Through programs like this, the Armenian Bar Association continues to promote educational access and equity by demystifying the legal system and opening doors for future leaders,” said Armenian Bar Chairwoman, Lucy Varpetian.
For more information or to support these initiatives, please contact the Armenian Bar Association at [email protected].