U.S. President Donald Trump has nominated attorney Craig Missakian to serve as the next United States Attorney for the Northern District of California, one of the nation’s most prominent federal jurisdictions, reports the Armenian Bar Association (ABA).
Missakian, a longtime member of the Armenian Bar Association, has been active in the Armenian-American legal community. His nomination has been praised by the ABA, which highlighted his commitment to justice and mentorship within the community.
Missakian will officially assume office on May 27, 2025, pending Senate confirmation. He will succeed acting U.S. Attorney Patrick Robbins, who took over following the dismissal of Ismail Ramsey earlier this year.
Missakian is a seasoned litigator with extensive experience in both public service and private practice. He previously served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Central District of California, prosecuting cases involving terrorism, public corruption, and cybercrime. In private practice, he has represented public-sector clients—including law enforcement officials and municipal employees—in high-profile and complex matters.
From 2014 to 2016, he served as Deputy Chief Counsel to the U.S. House Select Committee on Benghazi, where he contributed to the investigation into the 2012 attacks in Libya. His work there reflected a strong commitment to public accountability and government transparency.
Missakian is a graduate of Georgetown University Law Center. His path in public service began as an intern to then-California Senator Pete Wilson and included a 1996 campaign for the Republican nomination for California’s 43rd Assembly District.
Throughout his distinguished career, Missakian has worked closely with the leadership and members of the Armenian Bar Association. He has exemplified integrity, excellence, and an unwavering commitment to justice. In a tribute to the Armenian experience in America and the ideal of “paying it forward,” he was mentored by Armenian-American judges and community stakeholders—and has in turn mentored young Armenian-American lawyers and law students.
“Craig’s appointment is a testament to his unwavering dedication to justice and public service,” said Lucy Varpetian, Chairwoman of the Armenian Bar Association. “As an Armenian American and veteran federal prosecutor, he represents the very best of our community’s tradition of leadership, service, and professional excellence.”
Missakian joins fellow Armenian Bar member Rick Hartunian, who served as U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of New York from 2010 to 2017, as one of the few Armenian Americans to hold this prominent federal post. Hartunian has been a consistent participant, panelist, and presenter at many Armenian Bar events.
The Armenian Bar Association celebrated the nomination, stating that Missakian brings the experience, dedication, and leadership required to serve with distinction as the chief federal law enforcement officer for one of the country’s most vital districts.
