Dev Sethi and Peter Akmajian with Chief Judge Jennifer Zipps

Congratulations to Dev Sethi and Peter Akmajian!

Last week federal judges in Arizona recognized both as Pro Bono Lawyers of the Year. The awards were announced at the Arizona District Court Conference in Phoenix. Chief Judge of the Arizona District Court, The Honorable Jennifer Zipps, nominated both Dev and Peter for their work in the court's Civil Litigation Program. 

This court-created program allows pro per plaintiffs access to a lawyer for trial. A significant portion of civil claims filed in Arizona's federal courts are brought by unrepresented, pro per plaintiffs. Many of these do not survive legal challenges and are dismissed on motions to dismiss or motions for summary judgment. But with some regularity meritorious cases head for trial. The Civil Litigation Panel program allows these claimants representation at no cost to them once their case survives a summary judgment challenge. 

Dev and Peter were recognized for their work in a complex employment discrimination case brought by a senior level IT professional. She alleged gender discrimination on the part of her employer, Pima County. Prior to the firm's involvement, the parties held unsuccessful settlement discussions. After Judge Zipps denied the County's Motion for Summary Judgment, she asked Dev and Peter to take over representation and try the case pro bono. This was a complex case involving a technical and detailed factual background as well as intricate, detailed damages theories. Once our lawyers came on and organized the 1000s of pages of evidence for trial, the defense re-engaged in settlement discussion. 

The case resolved on favorable terms the week that trial was set to begin.

If you want to learn more about pro bono opportunities as the Arizona District Court, click here.