Meet Liana Khachatryan, Supervising Attorney of West Coast Trial Lawyers

Today we’d like to introduce you to Liana Khachatryan, Supervising Attorney.

Hi Liana Khachatryan, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I’m the daughter of immigrant parents, and like many first-generation professionals, I grew up navigating life without a roadmap. There was no older sibling to guide me, and my parents—despite their sacrifices—couldn’t mentor me through the world of American education or a legal career. What they did give me, however, were sky-high expectations, an unshakable work ethic, and the pressure to make something meaningful out of the opportunities they never had. That foundation shaped everything that came after. Before becoming an attorney, I spent years as a competitive dancer, training from the age of five through adulthood and earning multiple national titles. The discipline, resilience, and focus I learned in that arena became the backbone of my legal career.

My path through law has been defined by determination and a willingness to take on challenges that most would avoid. I earned my B.A. in English Literature from Cal State LA and graduated with honors from Whittier Law School, where I gained rare exposure to complex litigation through the DNA Unit at the Orange County District Attorney’s Office and later clerked for Judge Clarkson at the U.S. Bankruptcy Court. I began my career at a boutique firm handling bankruptcy litigation, personal injury cases, and contractual disputes before joining West Coast Trial Lawyers. There, I quickly grew into my role—often as the only female attorney in the room, and now the only woman in management. That unique position has been both a challenge and a powerful motivator, pushing me to lead with strength, clarity, and purpose.

Today, as the Supervising Attorney at West Coast Trial Lawyers, I manage high-stakes cases from inception to resolution and am able to build meaningful client and professional relationships. I’m also fortunate to serve as a legal commentator on major media platforms such as the BBC, NBC, Court TV, and others—using my voice to break down legal issues for the public. I’m proud of how far I’ve come, both for myself and for the family who sacrificed so much to give me the chance. And while I’ve earned recognition and built a career, I’m proud of, my proudest accomplishment remains the unwavering advocacy I bring to every client and every case I touch.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Professionally, one of the most significant challenges has been building my career in a male-dominated industry and, for many years, as the only female attorney—and now the only woman in management—at my firm. There was no path laid out for me; I had to carve my own. In environments where you’re the only woman at the table, you often have to work twice as hard just to be heard, taken seriously, or given the same level of respect. Those moments could have discouraged me, but instead they sharpened my voice, strengthened my resolve, and pushed me to excel beyond what was expected. I learned to advocate for myself the same way I advocate for my clients: clearly, confidently, and without hesitation.

Ultimately, the challenges I faced taught me that hard work, consistency, and persistence always win. Every obstacle—whether cultural, personal, or professional—reinforced that success is not handed to you; you build it, step by step. And in doing so, you don’t just open doors for yourself—you leave them open for the women who come after you.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
West Coast Trial Lawyers was founded in Los Angeles, CA by renowned attorneys Neama Rahmani and Allen Patatanyan. Backed by more than 25 years of combined legal expertise, our firm has secured over $1.7 billion in settlements and verdicts for thousands of injury victims across California and Nevada. And we’re ready to do the same for you.

What’s our secret? Delivering the highest level of service and personal attention to every client we represent. Unlike other law firms, you have direct lawyer access on your very first call. And we’re available 24/7, ensuring you receive the guidance, care, and legal representation when you need it most.

Headquartered in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles, WCTL has multiple offices throughout California, Nevada, Arizona and Washington state, giving you all the resources to handle your case wherever you are.

Backed by more than 200 dedicated in-house staff, our legal team consists of graduates from top law schools like Harvard, USC, George Washington University, and more.

In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
The personal injury landscape in California — and particularly Los Angeles — remains dynamic and evolving. We’re seeing increasing complexity in cases as client needs and societal awareness change: whether it’s more sophisticated car-accident claims due to rideshare and delivery-driver cases, pedestrian and bicycle accidents as LA becomes more pedestrian- and bike-friendly or growing demand for representation after wrongful death or workplace injuries. On the regulatory side, shifting legislation and insurance practices also influence how we approach cases from inception to resolution. This evolving environment keeps practitioners on their toes — requiring us to stay informed, adaptable, and proactive to fight for fair compensation.

At the same time, the growing public awareness around rights and accountability — especially in a city as populous and diverse as Los Angeles — means there are more opportunities than ever to make a real impact in people’s lives. For many clients, a personal injury case isn’t just about money — it’s about justice, dignity, and getting support when their lives are disrupted. Representing those clients and helping them through complicated medical, financial, and emotional recovery draws me into the heart of what made me pursue this career in the first place. Being able to combine rigorous legal strategy with empathy and advocacy continues to be deeply fulfilling.

Despite challenges like rising case volume, changing regulations, and increased defense-side resources, I remain excited about the potential to grow, innovate, and effect change. The intersection of evolving urban dynamics, shifting social expectations, and complex liability issues in LA means that thoughtful, aggressive, and compassionate representation will always be in demand. For me, that promise of impact — for individuals, families, and communities — is what keeps the work gratifying and the profession constantly evolving.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.westcoasttriallawyers.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lianathelawyer?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/liana-khachatryan-154727113