• J.D., Santa Clara University, School of Law, 1975 magna cum laude
• B.A., California State University, Fresno, 1972 honors

• California Bar—1975-1983, 2010-present.
• U.S. District Court, Eastern District—1975-1983, 2010-present.
• Fresno County Bar Association—1975-1983, 2010-present.
• American Bar Association—1976-1983.
• California Judges Association—1981-1992.
• Association of Conflict Resolution, Central California Chapter—2010-present

Judge Vartabedian has 29 years of judicial experience. Starting in 1981, he served at every level of California judicial system, adjudicating matters across the entire spectrum of types of actions.

While the 180 published appellate opinions he authored demonstrate the breadth of matters he has handled, he has a particular depth of experience in cases alleging serious personal injury and product defect, including those involving claims of punitive damages.

He also has a strong background in real estate and construction litigation, employment law, medical services contracts, probate matters, and agricultural disputes. As both a trial and appellate judge, he has assisted many parties in settling their disputes prior to adjudication. In addition to his duties on the bench, Steve participated on various statewide committees and lectured to state and local bar groups on appellate practice. Prior to taking the bench he was in private practice with Charles Poochigian. His practice emphasized real estate and family law litigation.