Ani M. Akopyan, Employment Attorney

Ani M. Akopyan is a Principal and Trial Attorney at Akopyan Law Firm, A.P.C., where she represents both employees and employers in complex employment disputes. With more than two decades of experience practicing exclusively in labor and employment law, Ani brings a balanced understanding of the legal, strategic, and human considerations that shape workplace litigation.

Ani handles matters involving wrongful termination, workplace discrimination, sexual harassment, retaliation, whistleblower claims, and wage and hour violations. Her experience on both sides of employment disputes allows her to understand how employees can be impacted, how employers assess business and litigation risk, and how each side approaches negotiation, mediation, and trial.

Ani earned her Bachelor of Science degree, with honors, from the University of California, Los Angeles in 2001 and obtained her Juris Doctor from Southwestern Law School in 2004. From the very start of her legal career, Ani has focused exclusively on labor and employment law, developing substantial experience across individual employment claims, complex litigation, and wage and hour class actions.

Ani began her practice at an employment defense firm in Los Angeles, where she represented employers in workplace litigation and gained valuable insight into how businesses and their insurers respond to employment claims. In 2006, she joined another employment defense firm in Pasadena, continuing to represent employers and insurance carriers in all aspects of employment law, including high-stakes wage and hour class actions.

In 2014, Ani joined a third employment defense firm in Encino, where she represented clients ranging from small businesses to large corporations in employment defense litigation. This foundation gave her firsthand knowledge of the strategies, priorities, and decision-making processes employers bring to workplace disputes.

Ani joined Akopyan Law Firm, A.P.C. in 2018. Initially Ani limited her practice at the Akopyan Law Firm, A.P.C. almost exclusively to representing employees in employment litigation. That work deepened her understanding of the personal and professional consequences employees may face when dealing with termination, discrimination, harassment, retaliation, or unpaid wages.

Today, Ani represents both employees and employers. This dual perspective helps her assess disputes from multiple angles, anticipate opposing arguments, identify leverage points, and develop strategies tailored to the facts and objectives of each client. Whether she is advocating for an employee whose career has been disrupted or defending an employer facing a significant workplace claim, Ani approaches the matter with careful analysis and focused preparation.

Ani is known for her analytical precision, fearlessness, professionalism, and strategic thinking. She evaluates not only the immediate legal issues but also the practical consequences of each decision. Her experience enables her to position matters thoughtfully for negotiation, mediation, or trial while helping clients understand the choices, risks, and opportunities that may arise throughout the process.

From the initial assessment of a dispute through discovery, motion practice, settlement discussions, and trial preparation, Ani remains attentive to both the details of the record and the larger strategic picture. She works to identify the central issues early, communicate clearly with clients, and pursue an approach aligned with each client’s circumstances, priorities, and long-term interests.

Education

Southwestern Law School

Juris Doctor, 2004

University of California, Los Angeles

Bachelor of Science, 2001

Bar Admission

California (Bar Number: 234158)

Texas (Bar Number: 24129021)

United States District Court for the Central District of California (Bar Number: 234158)

United States District Court for the Eastern District of California (Bar Number: 234158)

United States District Court for the Northern District of California (Bar Number: 234158)

United States District Court for the Southern District of California (Bar Number: 234158)

United States Court of Appeal for the Ninth Circuit (Bar Number: 234158)

Professional Recognition

Ani’s accomplishments and professionalism have been recognized by respected legal organizations and publications. She was named among the Top 50 Up-and-Coming Women Attorneys in Southern California in 2015, 2016, 2017, and 2018, and among the Top 100 Up-and-Coming Attorneys in Southern California in 2016, 2017, and 2018.

Ani was also included in the California Rising Stars℠ list in 2018 and 2019, a distinction awarded to no more than 2.5 percent of attorneys in the state. She was subsequently selected to the Southern California Super Lawyers® list each year from 2020 through 2027. Super Lawyers uses a multiphase selection process involving peer nominations, independent research, and peer evaluations.

In addition, Pasadena Magazine named Ani a Top Attorney from 2012 through 2015 in recognition of her skill, professionalism, and commitment to her clients.

Speak with Ani

Employment disputes can carry serious professional, financial, and personal consequences. Whether you are an employee seeking to enforce your rights or an employer responding to a workplace claim, Ani provides strategic guidance informed by extensive experience on both sides of employment law disputes.

Contact Akopyan Law Firm at (818) 509-9975 to discuss your situation and learn how the firm may be able to help.

Client Reviews and Testimonials

“I cannot speak highly enough of Ani Akopyan and her incredible work. From the moment I met her, she not only listened to my story but truly believed in my case, which gave me immense confidence. She worked tirelessly, defending me and my rights without ever backing down. When things got tough, she stood her ground with professionalism. Her timely communication and constant updates meant I was never left in the dark. She fought for me till the very end and for that I am truly grateful for her. If you want an attorney who will not give up on you, hire Ani Akopyan.”

“Working with Ani Akopyan was everything I could ask for in an attorney. Ani was extremely knowledgeable and hands on with my case. Ani was very professional and persistent! I’m immensely grateful for the outstanding fight she put up towards the defense. Very impressive! As a new stay at home mother, Ani was very considerate of my situation. My availability was very limited and Ani would go above and beyond to accommodate me. My expectations were definitely exceeded. HUGE thank you to the Akopyan Law Firm! What an amazing experience.”

“I am incredibly grateful for the exceptional service provided by Ani and Michael throughout the entire process. They were both highly knowledgeable and personable. At no point did I hesitate to ask for clarification, and they were always patient in addressing my questions. They worked diligently within my capacity, putting forth great effort to ensure the best possible outcome. I feel truly blessed to have come across such an amazing team, and I deeply appreciate their hard work and dedication.”

“I couldn’t be more grateful for the dedication and persistence Ani showed throughout my case. From our very first meeting, it was clear that Ani Akopyan genuinely cared about my situation and was determined to fight for a fair outcome. Throughout the entire process, Ani kept me informed, explained every step in detail and made sure I understood my rights and the legal process. Her commitment to fighting for justice made all the difference in resolving my case successfully. Not only is Ani incredibly knowledgeable and professional but she also showed genuine care and compassion which made a stressful situation much more manageable. I highly recommend Ani Akopyan to anyone in need of a strong trustworthy employment attorney. She truly goes above and beyond!”

“Best decision i made was going with Akopyan Law Firm. Ani was absolutely amazing , i worked with her for about 1 year and she was extremely informative and helpful every step of the way. Very friendly and very professional. I would definitely recommend her 100% Thank You Ani for everything ! ❤️”

“Attorney Ani Akopyan is extremely knowledgeable and confident. She is a hardworker, professional and never forgets a detail about your case. I am very pleased and grateful for the representation. No one fights as hard as Ani and you will be amazed with her strategy and expertise.”

“I was represented better than I could have imagined. The process was always explained to me. My attorney Ani Akopyan fought hard for me. She went above and beyond and did everything she could to ensure a great outcome. I couldn’t have asked for a better law firm and attorney.. I felt very comfortable with the law firm and I never had to call to ask for a status on my case as I was always kept informed through the process. I can’t say enough good things about this law firm. Integrity, Honesty, Reliable, Professional!!”

“I am extremely satisfied with the outstanding service provided by Ani Akopian and her law firm. Ani was a fantastic communicator — She was highly responsive, dedicated, and took the time to explain every detail thoroughly. Her professionalism and commitment made the entire process smooth and stress-free. I truly appreciate all the effort she put into helping me, and I highly recommend Ani and her firm to anyone in need of legal advice or assistance.”