In Memoriam: Justice Armand Arabian

April 3, 2018 | From Dean Paul L. Caron:

Friends, with a heavy heart, I ask you to join me in praying for the loved ones of Justice Armand Arabian, a man of distinguished humanity who passed away on March 28th, 2018. ​Justice Arabian was one of Pepperdine Law's longest serving Board members and, as most of you know, was the namesake for the Armand Arabian Fall Individual Advocacy Tournament each year. Pepperdine Law is also home to the Armand Arabian Judge's Chambers adjacent to the Darling Courtroom. During his time on the California Supreme Court, Justice Arabian regularly had one or two Pepperdine law clerks or externs. He was one of our closest friends and strongest supporters.

After earning his bachelor's degree from Boston University, Justice Arabian enlisted in the United States Army. As an airborne paratrooper, he learned the value of teamwork, fortitude, and the honor of public service. He returned to Boston University to earn his JD and then moved to California, where he became a Los Angeles County Deputy District Attorney and a criminal defense attorney. He was later appointed to the bench by Governor Ronald Reagan. His son Robert is a Pepperdine Law graduate, and his daughter Allison attended the law school briefly, as well. He did many wonderful things for Pepperdine Law, the legal profession, and our system of justice in America.

Rest in peace Justice Arabian. Pepperdine Law is a far better place because of your remarkable life.