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100+ Five-Star Google Reviews
"Been working with Future First Criminal Legal Team since 2020. They helped provide legal experience for an unjustified case I was not taking the plea. Fast forward to 2023, case was pulled to Superior Court and dismissed the day before the actual court date. Big thanks to the whole FFC Legal Team truly helped provide the outcome wanted."
Jay E. 2023
100+ Five-Star Google Reviews
"Future First Criminal Law is a great firm. Very professional and reactive. Ed was great and got me the best option that wasn’t originally even an option. They were recommended to me and come highly recommended from me. Thanks Future First team!"
Kaycie L. 2023
100+ Five-Star Google Reviews
“I have had the pleasure of working with Mr. Divelbiss in the past and know him to be a hard working professional. His attention to detail and care for his clients set him apart from the rest!”
Joshua Black, Attorney
100+ Five-Star Google Reviews
"Future first is 100% worth the cost. Honesty up front and through the end. The videos they make answered almost all my questions and I never had to go to their office. The group txt they have answered the rest and made it really easy to send documents via picture. They got me a better deal than I thought possible. Would highly recommend."
Charlie B. 2022
100+ Five-Star Google Reviews
“I am a commercial truck driver that was excused of a serious traffic violation during an accident. Future first took the reigns and guided me through start to finish. They not only got my charges dismissed saved my job and my commercial drivers license.”
J.M. 2021
100+ Five-Star Google Reviews
“Attorney Divelbiss is a hard worker and will advocate for his clients with an attention to detail that you don't see very often these days.”
Brandon White, Attorney
100+ Five-Star Google Reviews
"The team is wonderful I would recommend these guys a million times to anyone who needs them. They are professional and they keep you updated every step of the way. Thank you guys soooo much. Ed you the best you have a wonderful team. I literally thought my life was over but trust these guys delivered."
Kay L. - June 2023
100+ Five-Star Google Reviews
“Mr. Divelbiss is a GREAT attorney, very honest and reliable. He takes his times with every client and answers all questions and concerns. Is been a pleasure working with Mr. Divelbiss and he serves his clients very well!”
Allen Hsu, Attorney
100+ Five-Star Google Reviews
"The entire law firm was extremely helpful and made my life as easy as possible. Would not have gotten the results I did without them. Definitely recommend."
Aaron K. - June 2023
100+ Five-Star Google Reviews
“Mr. Divelbiss and I worked in the same office, although we were at different law firms. He was eager to learn and developed a reputation for honesty and zealous advocacy.”
Kristopher Califano, Attorney
100+ Five-Star Google Reviews
"If I could rate Future First Crimal Law higher I would. After making the dumb mistake of getting a DUI they have been there for me every step of the way. There is nothing worse than going at this alone. You want someone in your corner during this stressful time and no one is better than Zach and his team there. Without them the consequences would’ve been much worse so very thankful to the team."
Adam - July 2023
100+ Five-Star Google Reviews
“Attorney Divelbiss is bright, hard-working, and well-versed in criminal law. His legal writing is superb, and his commitment to his clients is outstanding. He will fight for you and offer you the best defense possible. Additionally, he is a pleasure to work with. I fully endorse this lawyer.”
Josephine Hallam, Attorney
Download PDF Version
7 Tips for Dealing
with Police
1. ALWAYS BE POLITE
Law enforcement officials have a difficult, dangerous, and stressful job. While some may be rude and overly aggressive, most officers will be fair and courteous to you as long as you are respectful of them and the work they have to do. Addressing officers as, “Sir” or, “Ma’am,” and using terms like, “please” and, “thank you” can really go a long way. Statements such as, “I pay your salary” are never helpful and can only serve to escalate the situation.
2. NEVER FLEE
If an officer commands you to stop, either on the road or on foot, stop. You should never engage in headlong flight. Not only is fleeing from law enforcement a criminal act, it can also be used as “consciousness of guilt” evidence in a subsequent prosecution for a separate offense.
3. CLARIFY THE NATURE OF THE ENCOUNTER
There are basically three types of police encounters: arrest based on probable cause; detention based on reasonable suspicion; and consensual contact. When approached by a police officer it is critically important to ascertain the nature of the encounter. Ask the officer, “Am I free to leave?” If the answer is yes, politely remove yourself from the situation immediately. If the answer is no, ask, “Am I under arrest?” If the answer to this question is no, do not leave, but remain alert and be prepared to invoke your rights (e.g., your right to remain silent; your right to be free from unreasonable searches).
4. BE ASSERTIVE
Most people become extremely nervous around law enforcement officers and are uncomfortable invoking their legal rights. However, if you don’t assert your rights, you may effectively “waive” or surrender those rights and lose the protections afforded to you by the Constitution. Police officers are trained to coax citizens into abandoning their constitutional protections. A good rule of thumb is to follow police commands, but deny police requests.
7 Tips for Dealing with Police – Continued Below
Experienced Phoenix DUI and Criminal Lawyers
Our mission is to help keep good people out of jail by balancing the criminal justice playing field so each one of our clients has a fighting chance to achieve realistic outcomes for their individual legal situations.
The Fourth Amendment to the Constitution protects citizens from unreasonable searches and seizures. Warrantless searches are deemed unreasonable, but there are many exceptions to the warrant requirement. One method officers have of getting around the warrant requirement is to solicit consent to search from suspects themselves. During a traffic stop, for example, an officer may ask, “You don’t have anything illegal in the car do you?” A typical response is, “No, of course not, officer.” The officer will then say, “So you won’t mind if I look around then, right?” This is a trick. Don’t fall for it. Confidently state, “I do not wish to have my privacy invaded. I would just like to be on my way.” If the officer continues to request permission to search, make it absolutely clear that you will not consent to a search of any kind without a warrant. If the officer is asking for your consent, it is likely that he has no other legal grounds to conduct a warrantless search. Do not give in to the officer’s attempts to get you to relinquish your rights.
6. REMAIN SILENT
You have a Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination, and you are under no obligation to speak with police officers about a pending investigation. Anything you say to police officers, even if you are perfectly innocent, can and will be used against you. Officers and prosecutors are experts at twisting innocent statements around and lifting them out of context to make you look suspicious. If you are stopped by the police, you should answer standard identification questions, but do not make small talk or offer other unsolicited information. If you are taken into custody and questioned by law enforcement officers, assert your rights. Say, “I do not wish to talk or answer questions. I want a lawyer.” Then, stop talking. Never make any statements to investigators outside of the presence of an experienced criminal defense lawyer.
7. FIGHT POLICE VIOLATIONS IN THE COURTROOM, NEVER IN THE STREETS
If you believe that a law enforcement officer has violated your rights – by stopping your vehicle without reasonable suspicion; or conducting an unlawful search of your person, car, home or property; or by using unnecessary force – do not engage with the officer at the scene. Contact an experienced criminal defense lawyer who can assess your situation and protect your rights.
Knowledgeable Phoenix, Arizona
DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers
Future First Criminal Law is your top choice for competitive criminal defense and DUI law firms. Our practice is limited to a small number of criminal defense clients to best devote all of our time and attention to EVERY client’s needs. We understand that your future is at risk and our team will work diligently to develop an unwavering defense in court.
- Clients Are Our #1 Focus
- We only serve the “Phoenix Area” because we do not go outside of Maricopa County
- Dedicated To Criminal Defense
- We Educate & Advocate
- Request A FREE Consultation
- Payment Plans Available
Have you been involved in DUI? Contact our lawyers today to protect your rights and freedoms. They can help you gain an understanding of the criminal defense legal process and learn about the options available to you. Create a thorough defense strategy to give you your best chances — Schedule a free consultation.
Find The Right Phoenix, Arizona Lawyer For Your Case
If you need a DUI or Criminal Lawyer in Arizona, look for an experienced criminal defense law firm that can dedicate all of their time and resources to helping clients with criminal charges. Find a knowledgeable lawyer who is willing to educate and advocate through every step of the legal process. Future First Criminal Law will get to know your case and develop a strategy that will work best for you. Request a free consultation today.
We Help Keep GOOD People Out of Jail!
Areas Served
 | 2999 N. 44th St. Suite 307, Phoenix, AZ 85018 |
 | 8650 N. 35th Ave. Suite 110, Phoenix, AZ 85018 |
Areas Served
 | 2999 N. 44th St. Suite 307, Phoenix, AZ 85018 |
 | 8650 N. 35th Ave. Suite 110, Phoenix, AZ 85018 |
54+ Five-Star Google Reviews
“Attorney Divelbiss is bright, hard-working, and well-versed in criminal law. His legal writing is superb, and his commitment to his clients is outstanding. He will fight for you and offer you the best defense possible. Additionally, he is a pleasure to work with. I fully endorse this lawyer.”
J.S.
54+ Five-Star Google Reviews
“I hired Zachary after I found myself charged with a felony. He put me at ease right away and during the whole process he explained each step to where I understood everything and was always available for any questions I had. ”
S.N.
54+ Five-Star Google Reviews
“Attorney Zachary is a brilliant attorney, I highly recommend his company to resolve any legal/criminal matter satisfactorily. He still continue to work on my case to tie some loose ends. He is intelligent , prompt and a problem solver. I thank him a million times to protect my dignity and reputation.”
D.G.
54+ Five-Star Google Reviews
“I have had the pleasure of working with Mr. Divelbiss in the past and know him to be a hard working professional. His attention to detail and care for his clients set him apart from the rest!”
Joshua Black, Attorney
54+ Five-Star Google Reviews
“Attorney Divelbiss is a hard worker and will advocate for his clients with an attention to detail that you don’t see very often these days.”
Brandon White, Attorney
54+ Five-Star Google Reviews
“Attorney Divelbiss is bright, hard-working, and well-versed in criminal law. His legal writing is superb, and his commitment to his clients is outstanding. He will fight for you and offer you the best defense possible. Additionally, he is a pleasure to work with. I fully endorse this lawyer.”
Josephine Hallam, Attorney
54+ Five-Star Google Reviews
“Mr. Divelbiss and I worked in the same office, although we were at different law firms. He was eager to learn and developed a reputation for honesty and zealous advocacy.”
Kristopher Califano, Attorney
54+ Five-Star Google Reviews
“Mr. Divelbiss is a GREAT attorney, very honest and reliable. He takes his times with every client and answers all questions and concerns. Is been a pleasure working with Mr. Divelbiss and he serves his clients very well!”
Allen Hsu, Attorney