Armine A. Vartanyan vs. Steven L. Weiss, et al.

Case Background

On December 11, 2020, Armine A. Vartanyan filed a legal malpractice lawsuit against attorney Steven L. Weiss and his law firm, the Law Offices of Steven L. Weiss APLC, alleging breach of fiduciary duty and negligence. The lawsuit was filed in the California Superior Court, Los Angeles County. Judges Randolph M. Hammock, Charles C. Lee, and Stuart M. Rice presided over this lawsuit. [Case number: 20STCV47588]

Cause

Plaintiff Armine A. Vartanyan, a Los Angeles resident, hired attorney Defendant Steven L. Weiss and his law firm, the Law Offices of Steven L. Weiss APLC, in April 2018 to represent her in a divorce case. Defendant Weiss assured Vartanyan of his expertise in family law, particularly in property division and spousal support. Relying on these promises, she retained his services to protect her interests, especially concerning her home at 14347 Albers Street, Sherman Oaks, which she considered her separate property.

Vartanyan emphasized the importance of retaining full ownership of the Albers property, presenting a deed that confirmed it as her sole and separate property. Weiss assured her he would safeguard her interests. Despite these assurances, Weiss allegedly failed to properly prepare or present her case, particularly regarding the property’s characterization and her financial investments in it. Key evidence, such as the deed and related documents, was never introduced in court.

Over 20 months, Weiss billed Vartanyan more than $140,000 without conducting depositions, contested hearings, or a trial. During this period, Weiss reportedly acted unprofessionally, making demeaning remarks and pressuring her to accept a settlement unfavorable to her. The stipulated judgment required Vartanyan to reimburse her ex-spouse, Hussein Sadeghi, for the property’s value and half its increased worth, without accounting for her investments.

Vartanyan alleges Weiss prioritized his interests over hers, using the court’s preliminary rulings to coerce her into accepting the judgment. She claimed Weiss’s conduct resulted in significant financial losses and a breach of fiduciary duty.

Damages

Vartanyan alleged that Weiss and his firm’s negligence caused over $1,000,000 in economic losses. She sought restitution for excessive legal fees, punitive damages for alleged misconduct, and compensation for mental and financial distress, including losses related to her property improvements and settlement payments.

Vartanyan alleged that Weiss and his firm acted with malice, fraud, or oppression by concealing critical facts and depriving her of her rights. She sought punitive damages to hold them accountable for this misconduct. Additionally, she demanded the return of $140,000 in legal fees, arguing that the attorneys should not profit from their alleged breaches of duty and negligence. She claimed this betrayal caused her mental distress and further financial losses, including the $500,000 settlement and the loss of reimbursement rights for her property improvements.

Key Arguments and Proceedings

Legal Representation

  • Plaintiff(s): Armine A. Vartanyan
    • Counsel for Plaintiff(s): Marilyn M. Smith
  • Defendant(s): Steven L. Weiss | Law Offices of Steven L. Weiss APLC
    • Counsel for Defendant(s): Edward C. Stark | Michael J. De Furia

Claims

Legal Malpractice Claim

Armine A. Vartanyan alleged that attorney Steven L. Weiss and his law firm failed to provide the level of skill and care expected of legal professionals. She claimed their negligence caused her to lose significant financial opportunities regarding the Albers Property. Specifically, Weiss and his firm allegedly failed to protect her legal rights, resulting in a settlement that required her to pay approximately $500,000 to her ex-spouse or risk losing the property.

Vartanyan stated that the attorneys neglected to secure reimbursement for her separate property improvements, costing her substantial financial resources.

Breach of Fiduciary Duty Claim

Vartanyan further accused Weiss and his firm of breaching their fiduciary duty. She asserted that they failed to act in her best interests and betrayed her trust. According to her, they prioritized their convenience over their professional obligations, leading to financial and emotional harm.

Defense

Steven L. Weiss and his law firm denied all allegations in Armine A. Vartanyan’s complaint, rejecting claims of legal malpractice, breach of fiduciary duty, and improper retention of fees. They argued that the complaint lacked sufficient facts, was barred by statute limitations, and failed to demonstrate causation. Defendants contended that Vartanyan’s actions, omissions, or those of others, contributed to her damages and that she failed to mitigate her losses. They asserted that they acted in good faith, within professional standards, and based on reasonable decisions supported by the facts. Additionally, they claimed Vartanyan approved the strategies she now disputes, withheld critical information, and that her damages, if any, were caused by third parties. Defendants also denied any malicious or fraudulent intent, argued against liability for punitive damages, and sought a reduction for unpaid legal fees.

Jury Verdict

On December 20, 2024, the jury found in favor of Steven L. Weiss and against Armine A. Vartanyan. Accordingly, no damages were awarded to Vartanyan.

Court Documents:

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