About Our Law Firm
Future First Criminal Law stands as a seasoned team of Lawyers ready to assist with DUI and Criminal charges in the Phoenix Metro area. Discover how our team can be instrumental in navigating through your legal challenges. If faced with a DUI and/or Criminal case, engaging the services of an experienced DUI/Criminal Lawyer is the initial and vital step. Seasoned Lawyers, like those at Future First Criminal Law, offer the effective defense necessary for a favorable outcome. We are dedicated to positively impacting lives through effective legal advocacy, one case at a time!
We Help Keep Good People Out Of Jail!
Zach Divelbiss
Owner/Lawyer
Meet Zach: Championing Justice and Protecting Futures in Arizona
Zach, a proud native of Arizona, is the driving force behind Future First Criminal Law. His journey to becoming a formidable defender of justice began during his college years at Arizona State University. Despite his run-ins with the law, Zach faced the challenges head-on, representing himself in court even before obtaining his law degree. It was during these early encounters with the legal system that Zach witnessed firsthand the injustices prevalent in Arizona’s courts.
One particularly surreal experience involved Zach being charged with possessing a fake ID, despite it being a genuine license issued by the MVD. Confident in his innocence, Zach took his case to trial, only to realize the harsh reality of the legal battlefield – without proper representation, justice can be elusive. Despite the authenticity of his ID, Zach found himself on the wrong side of the verdict, a stark reminder of the daunting odds faced by those without skilled legal counsel.
Driven by a passion to understand every facet of criminal law and to advocate for those navigating the complexities of the justice system, Zach pursued a legal education. Graduating with honors and earning the prestigious Mission Pillar Award, Zach emerged as a beacon of excellence in his field.
With a wealth of experience in criminal defense, Zach founded Future First Criminal Law to champion the rights of the accused. His unwavering commitment extends to helping first-time offenders secure the best possible outcome, safeguarding their future prospects. Zach firmly believes that incarceration is not the solution in our justice system, standing in stark contrast to prosecutors who view jail time as a panacea for all woes.
At Future First Criminal Law, Zach and his team are dedicated to leveling the playing field, ensuring that justice is not just a privilege but a right for all. With Zach leading the charge, clients can rest assured that their futures are in capable hands, guided by integrity, empathy, and an unyielding pursuit of justice.
Ellyse Holzman
Lawyer
Meet Ellyse: Champion Defender
Ellyse C. Holzman isn’t just your average criminal defense lawyer – she’s a relentless fighter with a mission to protect her clients’ rights and freedoms. With a background as a former Prosecutor, she brings unparalleled aggressiveness and fortitude to the table, ensuring her clients receive the robust defense they deserve.
Starting her legal career as a Deputy County Attorney at the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office, Ellyse handled a plethora of misdemeanor and felony cases, including hundreds of DUI and traffic cases. She’s no stranger to the courtroom, having conducted numerous Bench and Jury Trials with winning verdicts under her belt.
But Ellyse’s journey to becoming a powerhouse defense attorney didn’t stop there. During her time in law school, she gained invaluable experience at both the Maricopa County Public Defender’s Office and the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office, where she honed her skills in criminal defense and prosecution.
Notably, Ellyse’s dedication and expertise earned her the nickname “The Rockstar” among her colleagues at the Capital Litigation/Homicide Bureau. Here, she worked on high-stakes First Degree Murder cases, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to justice.
Beyond her legal career, Ellyse is a force to be reckoned with on the sports field, having played a variety of sports like ice hockey, soccer, basketball, and more. Her leadership, resilience, and perseverance from her youth sports days have seamlessly transitioned into her role as a fierce advocate for her clients.
At her core, Ellyse is driven by her passion for helping others. Whether she’s fighting for the State of Arizona, victims of crime, or individuals in need of a voice, Ellyse is known as a “Powerful Presence” in and out of the courtroom. With Ellyse C. Holzman by your side, you can rest assured that you have a dedicated champion fighting for your rights.
Kendra
Operations Manager
Meet Kendra: Elevating Future First Criminal Law to New Heights
In her role as Operations Manager at Future First Criminal Law, Kendra is the driving force behind our firm’s success. With a keen eye for innovation and a dedication to excellence, Kendra plays a pivotal role in shaping our firm into a trailblazer in the legal industry.
Responsible for crafting the optimal environment for both our clients and employees, Kendra’s commitment to excellence knows no bounds. She is constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, introducing cutting-edge products and technology that propel our firm ahead of the competition. Kendra’s tireless efforts in onboarding, training, and enhancing employee productivity are instrumental in our ability to consistently secure victories for our clients.
Hailing from Wyoming but calling Arizona home for over two decades, Kendra brings a wealth of experience and a deep-rooted passion for her community to her role. A fervent football and hockey enthusiast, Kendra’s love for sports is only matched by her dedication to serving others. Graduating from Arizona State University in 2016, Kendra has dedicated herself to making a difference in the lives of Arizona’s veterans, students, and homeless populations. Through her work with various organizations, Kendra continues to uplift and empower those in need, leaving a lasting impact on the community she holds dear.
With Kendra at the helm, Future First Criminal Law is not just a law firm – it’s a beacon of innovation, compassion, and unwavering dedication to justice. Her unwavering commitment to excellence and tireless pursuit of progress make her an invaluable asset to our team and our clients alike.
Megan
Legal Case Manager
Meet Megan: Your First Line of Defense at Future First Criminal Law
In her role as Legal Case Manager, Megan plays a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth progression of criminal and DUI cases through the legal system at Future First Criminal Law. With her exceptional training and advanced skills, Megan serves as the firm’s first line of defense, adeptly identifying opportunities to challenge jurisdiction and ultimately secure case dismissals.
Hailing from Colorado Springs, Colorado, and raised in Nebraska, Megan brings a diverse perspective and a deep-rooted commitment to justice to her role. A graduate of the University of Nebraska Omaha, Megan’s journey led her to Arizona, where she discovered her true calling: a career dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of others.
At Future First Criminal Law, Megan’s passion for helping others shines through in her unwavering dedication to her work. With her keen eye for detail and her relentless pursuit of justice, Megan ensures that each case receives the attention and expertise it deserves. Whether she’s navigating complex legal procedures or advocating for clients’ rights, Megan’s commitment to excellence is unwavering.
With Megan on your side, you can rest assured knowing that your case is in capable hands. Her dedication to securing favorable outcomes for our clients and her tireless advocacy make her an invaluable asset to our team and a trusted ally in your pursuit of justice.
Laura
Legal Assisstant
Meet Laura: Your Multi-Talented Legal Assistant at Future First Criminal Law
As the Legal Assistant at Future First Criminal Law, Laura holds a position of immense responsibility, managing a diverse range of tasks essential to the firm’s operations. From filing motions to coordinating with judges’ assistants, overseeing the firm’s calendar, navigating complexities with ADOT and MVD, and monitoring prefile cases, Laura’s role requires a unique blend of organization, efficiency, and adaptability.
With her exceptional multitasking skills, Laura serves as the backbone of the law firm, ensuring that every aspect of our operations runs smoothly and seamlessly. Her ability to be in multiple places at once and tackle challenges head-on is instrumental in achieving the remarkable results that our clients deserve.
Originally hailing from Argentina, Laura brings a rich cultural background and a passion for excellence to her role. When she’s not busy at work, Laura enjoys spending quality time with her niece and nephew, cheering on their favorite fútbol player, Lionel Messi. She’s also a devoted fan of all things Marvel, immersing herself in the thrilling world of superhero movies and shows.
With Laura’s unwavering dedication and her knack for getting things done, our clients can trust that they are in capable hands. Her commitment to excellence and her tireless efforts make her an invaluable asset to our team and a key contributor to our clients’ success.
Sophia
Client Services Manager
Meet Sophia: Your Dedicated Client Services Manager at Future First Criminal Law
Originally from Connecticut, Sophia’s journey led her to Arizona seven years ago to pursue higher education at Arizona State University. Graduating Magna Cum Laude with a degree in Psychology and a minor in Criminology and Criminal Justice, Sophia brings a unique blend of academic expertise and real-world experience to her role.
With a passion for excellence, Sophia excels in building strong client relationships and delivering exceptional service tailored to individual needs. Her commitment to understanding client needs and providing innovative solutions makes her an invaluable asset to Future First Criminal Law. Whether you’re seeking guidance or support, Sophia is here to ensure your experience with us is nothing short of exceptional.
We are dedicated to positively impacting lives through effective legal advocacy, one case at a time!
Law Firm Vision
At Future First Criminal Law, our vision is clear: to establish a thriving, enduring, and lucrative law firm with multiple offices dedicated to criminal defense matters. From handling felonies and misdemeanors to addressing traffic offenses, we aim to be the go-to destination for individuals facing legal challenges in the criminal justice system.
Our vision extends beyond mere success; we aspire to be synonymous with excellence and integrity in the legal community. We envision a team of highly skilled professionals who are not only experts in their field but also unwavering in their commitment to upholding ethical standards and serving our clients with integrity and compassion.
Ultimately, our goal is to make a positive impact in the lives of our clients by providing expert legal guidance and representation during some of their most challenging times. Through our dedication to professionalism, innovation, and client-centered service, we aim to be the trusted ally our clients can rely on to navigate the complexities of the criminal justice system with confidence and peace of mind.
Law Firm Mission Statement
At Future First Criminal Law, our mission is clear: to prevent unjust incarceration by leveling the playing field in the criminal justice system. We believe that every individual deserves a fair chance to navigate their legal challenges and achieve realistic outcomes tailored to their unique circumstances.
We are committed to achieving our mission by providing our clients with comprehensive education about their legal options. By empowering our clients with knowledge, we enable them to make informed decisions and actively participate in their legal proceedings.
Furthermore, we are dedicated to advocating vigorously on behalf of our clients at every stage of the legal process. Whether it’s negotiating with prosecutors, challenging evidence, or representing clients in court, we tirelessly fight for the best possible outcomes for each individual we serve.
Through our unwavering commitment to justice, education, and advocacy, we strive to make a meaningful difference in the lives of our clients and ensure that their voices are heard and their rights are protected in the criminal justice system.
Law Firm Values
Integrity
Integrity is the cornerstone of our practice at Future First Criminal Law. We hold ourselves to the highest ethical standards, and that includes always being honest and forthright with our clients about our representation and their expectations.
Our commitment to integrity means that we will never compromise on the truth or mislead our clients in any way. We believe in open and transparent communication, ensuring that our clients have a clear understanding of our legal strategies, the potential outcomes of their case, and what they can expect from our representation.
When clients choose us, they can trust that we will always act with honesty and integrity, even when faced with difficult decisions or challenging situations. We believe that maintaining the trust and confidence of our clients is paramount, and that begins with being truthful and transparent in all of our interactions.
At Future First Criminal Law, integrity is not just a value – it’s a guiding principle that shapes everything we do.
Accountability
Accountability is a core value at Future First Criminal Law. We understand the importance of reliability and follow-through in our work, and we are committed to holding ourselves accountable to our clients and to each other.
When we make a commitment to our clients, whether it’s a deadline for filing paperwork or a promise to keep them informed about their case, we take that commitment seriously. We understand that our clients are relying on us to advocate for their best interests, and we strive to meet and exceed their expectations at every step of the legal process.
At Future First Criminal Law, accountability means taking ownership of our actions and decisions. If we make a mistake or encounter a setback, we are honest about it with our clients and take proactive steps to address the issue and find a solution. We believe that accountability is essential for building trust and maintaining strong relationships with our clients.
By holding ourselves accountable to our commitments, we demonstrate our dedication to providing exceptional legal representation and ensuring the best possible outcomes for our clients. At Future First Criminal Law, accountability is not just a value – it’s a fundamental aspect of how we operate.
Transparency
Transparency is a fundamental value at Future First Criminal Law. We believe in the importance of clear and open communication with our clients, and we are committed to providing them with timely updates and information about their case.
When you choose Future First Criminal Law to represent you, you can trust that we will keep you informed every step of the way. From the initial consultation to the resolution of your case, we will be straightforward and forthcoming about the status of your case, any developments, and any decisions that need to be made.
We understand that navigating the legal system can be complex and overwhelming, which is why we strive to make the process as transparent and understandable as possible for our clients. Whether you have questions about the legal process, your rights, or the potential outcomes of your case, we are here to provide you with the information and guidance you need.
At Future First Criminal Law, transparency isn’t just a value – it’s a commitment we make to each and every one of our clients. We believe that by being honest, upfront, and transparent in our communications, we can build trust and confidence and ensure that our clients feel informed and empowered throughout their legal journey.
Authenticity
Authenticity is at the core of our values at Future First Criminal Law. We believe in being genuine and truthful with our clients, even when delivering difficult news or discussing challenging legal matters.
When you work with us, you can trust that we will always provide honest and realistic assessments of your case. We will never promise outcomes that we cannot deliver or provide false hope. Instead, we will give you a clear and accurate understanding of your legal options, the potential challenges you may face, and the likely outcomes based on our experience and expertise.
Our commitment to authenticity means that we will always prioritize your best interests and provide you with the information and guidance you need to make informed decisions about your case. We believe that by being transparent and truthful, we can build trust and confidence with our clients and ensure that they feel supported and empowered throughout the legal process.
At Future First Criminal Law, authenticity isn’t just a value – it’s a guiding principle that informs everything we do. We are dedicated to providing our clients with honest and straightforward representation, and we will always strive to uphold the highest standards of integrity and ethics in our practice.
Empathy
Empathy lies at the heart of our practice at Future First Criminal Law. We understand that facing legal challenges can be one of the most difficult and stressful experiences in life. That’s why we are committed to treating each of our clients with the utmost respect, care, and compassion.
When you work with us, you can trust that we will take the time to listen to your concerns, understand your unique situation, and empathize with the challenges you are facing. We recognize that every client is different, and we are dedicated to providing personalized attention and support tailored to your individual needs.
Our team is here to guide you through the legal process with empathy and understanding every step of the way. We will stand by your side, offering encouragement, reassurance, and practical advice to help you navigate through this difficult time. Whether you are dealing with a DUI charge, a criminal offense, or any other legal issue, we are here to provide you with the care and compassion you deserve.
At Future First Criminal Law, empathy isn’t just a value – it’s a fundamental aspect of how we approach our practice. We are committed to building trusting and supportive relationships with our clients, and we will always go above and beyond to ensure that you feel heard, understood, and valued throughout your legal journey.
Zachary J. Divelbiss, Esq.
Arizona Criminal Defense Lawyer
Professional Experience
- Future First Criminal Law – Founder/Owner/Lawyer
- Divelbiss Criminal Law – Founder/Owner/Lawyer
- Ryley, Carlock & Applewhite – Attorney
- Maricopa County Public Defender’s Office – Clerk/Extern
- Lorona Mead, PLC – Intern
- Cavanagh Law Firm – Extern
- Harla Davison Law Firm – Extern
Bar and Court Admissions
- Supreme Court of Arizona
Solely Practices Criminal & DUI Defense
- Focuses on DUI & Criminal Defense Representation
How our firm decided on Criminal Defense?
Zach’s chilhood roots in Apache Junction, Arizona, shaped his worldview and fueled his passion for justice. Witnessing the impact of stereotypes firsthand, he became determined to challenge unfounded biases that divide communities.
His journey led him to Arizona State University (ASU), where he pursued a degree in Justice Studies on a full-ride scholarship. Through his studies, Zach gained insight into the root causes of inequality and prejudice. He learned to recognize the systemic discrimination faced by individuals and groups based on factors like poverty, race, ethnicity, and gender.
ASU provided Zach with a platform to understand the complexities of societal divisions and to advocate for change. Today, his experiences drive his commitment to fighting for justice and equality for all.
After graduating from ASU, Zach Divelbiss was driven by a profound desire to make a difference in the lives of those who needed it most. He saw the law as a powerful tool for advocating on behalf of those who required representation.
Determined to pursue this mission, Zach enrolled in Arizona Summit Law School, where he embarked on an accelerated journey through his legal education. Despite the challenges, he excelled, graduating at the top of his class with Cum Laude Honors.
With his legal expertise and passion for justice, Zach founded Future First Criminal Law, a firm dedicated to educating and advocating for individuals accused of felony and misdemeanor crimes in Phoenix, Arizona. Through his work, Zach aims to alleviate the burden of criminal convictions and uphold the rights of fellow citizens across Maricopa County.
What distinguishes our law firm from others?
At Future First Criminal Law, our founder Zach Divelbiss brings a unique perspective to the courtroom, having experienced both sides—as a defendant and now as a lawyer. In his youth, Zach faced numerous criminal charges and even spent time behind bars. However, he turned this experience into a driving force to help others facing similar situations.
Zach’s journey led him to law school, where he dedicated himself to advocating for those accused of criminal offenses. His personal experiences allow him to empathize with the stress and confusion individuals face when navigating the legal system. At Future First Criminal Law, we prioritize understanding and support for every person accused of a crime, ensuring they receive the guidance and representation they deserve.
What experience or education distinguishes our lawyers from others?
Zach’s legal journey is marked by exceptional achievements and dedication. Graduating at the top of his class with honors from a prestigious private law school in just two years—a remarkable feat that speaks to his intellect and work ethic. Notably, he was the youngest individual in his graduating class, a testament to his exceptional capabilities.
Zach’s commitment to excellence was further recognized when he was awarded the distinguished Donald E. Lively Mission Pillar Award, a prestigious honor bestowed upon a single individual selected by faculty and teachers. This recognition underscores Zach’s outstanding contributions and leadership within the legal community.
During his time at law school, Zach embarked on a path of public service by accepting a position with the Maricopa County Public Defender’s Office. Here, he underwent specialized training in criminal defense, honing his skills and gaining invaluable experience in advocating for individuals facing legal challenges.
Equipped with knowledge, experience, and a steadfast commitment to justice, Zach embarked on the journey of founding his own law firm. At Future First Criminal Law, he continues to uphold his mission of helping as many people as possible, offering unwavering support and effective representation to those in need. Zach’s dedication to serving his community shines through in every case he takes on, ensuring that individuals receive the guidance and advocacy they deserve in their pursuit of justice.
Professional Education
Arizona Summit Law School
- J.D. (2016) | Legal Studies 2014-2016
- Honors: Donald E. Lively Mission Pillar Award
- Cum Laude | Castro and Merit Scholarship
- Dean’s Award 2014-2016 Top 10%
- Graduation Activities: Law Review & Moot Court
Arizona State University
- B.S. (2014) | Justice Studies 2010-2014
- Honors: Cum Laude | Provost Scholarship
Professional Affiliations
- Maricopa County Bar Association – Member
- Professionalism Advisory Council – MCBA
- Criminal Law Section – MCBA
- Young Lawyer Division – MCBA
- Solo and Small Firm Division – MCBA
Awards & Recognition
- Graduated Early With Cum Laude Honors From Arizona Summit Law School
- Honorary Recipient of the Donald E. Lively Mission Pillar Award
Exploring Zach’s Journey: A Lawyer’s Path to Advocacy
Are you intrigued to learn about Zach’s personal experience leading to his professional journey and his dedication to serving others through the legal profession? Take a deeper dive into Zach’s page to uncover the compelling narrative behind his decision to become a lawyer focused on helping people. Gain insights into the experiences and values that have shaped his commitment to justice. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of Zach’s mission and passion for advocacy. Visit Zach’s page today to explore his story and the principles that drive his legal practice.