Warren Paboojian has practiced plaintiff personal injury law in the San Joaquin Valley for more than three decades.
Warren R. Paboojian is a founding member of Paboojian & Bell, Inc., a Fresno-based law firm specializing in plaintiff catastrophic personal injury cases. A Valley native educated at Fresno State and San Joaquin College of Law, Paboojian has built a career — and a family legacy — around fighting for the injured and securing large verdicts.
Paboojian was featured in The Business Journal’s Executive Profile in the May 8 print edition.
Why did you open your firm in the Valley?
I always envisioned working here and helping the local community. San Joaquin College of Law gave me the financial ability to work and go to school without leaving the region. I didn’t have the resources to go out of town, and honestly, I didn’t want to.
What advice would you give someone considering law school?
Don’t go unless you’re truly dedicated. It sounds appealing, but once you’re there, it requires 100% commitment. If you’re not fully committed, think about another profession. If you are, it’s one of the most noble professions there is.
What cases stand out in your career?
Two verdicts come to mind. In 2007, we obtained the largest Title IX verdict in U.S. history — $19.1 million against Fresno State — which sent shockwaves through collegiate athletics and established equal rights for women in sports. The second was a medical malpractice case in San Diego where a doctor failed to diagnose a woman’s breast cancer. Most people are seeking financial relief, but more than anything, they’re seeking justice.
What’s your greatest accomplishment?
Helping those who cannot help themselves during some of the most difficult times of their lives.
What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned running your own firm? You need grit. As a plaintiff’s lawyer representing the injured, grit and perseverance are everything.
What are the best and hardest parts of being an attorney?
The little guy really doesn’t have a chance in litigation without competent trial attorneys. The best part is helping people who were in a very dark place. Settling a case on behalf of injured parties is the most rewarding thing I do.
What is it like working alongside your children?
It’s been one of my greatest joys. Getting to come in every day and see them working as attorneys has probably been the most fulfilling aspect of my career.
What do you do outside of work?
I try to travel, play golf, and spend time with my grandkids.