Our Defense Team

Michael Tamou is a highly respected criminal defense attorney in Arizona, renowned for his expertise in handling a wide range of criminal offenses, including DUI cases, drug charges, assault, theft, domestic violence, and other serious felonies. With an unwavering dedication to justice and a proven track record of securing favorable outcomes, Michael has established himself as a formidable advocate for his clients’ rights and futures.

Michael’s deep understanding of Arizona’s criminal laws, combined with his meticulous approach to case preparation, sets him apart. He crafts personalized defense strategies for each client and offers proactive legal solutions aimed at mitigating potential consequences.

He approaches every legal matter with integrity, professionalism, and a relentless pursuit of justice, making him a trusted advocate across Arizona.

Harper is an Arizona native and Lead Attorney with Tamou Law Group. She graduated summa cum laude from Northern Arizona University and earned her J.D. from Villanova University. Harper began at the Maricopa County Office of the Public Defender, managing a high-volume felony caseload and representing clients at every stage of the Superior Court process.

Driven by the belief that everyone deserves a voice and constitutional protection, Harper secures favorable outcomes through negotiation and litigation, ensuring each client’s unique circumstances are fully considered. Harper is licensed in Arizona.

Jacie Cotterell is an experienced trial attorney and dedicated criminal defense advocate with over a decade of practice in the State of Arizona. She has represented clients across Arizona in cases ranging from DUI and domestic violence to serious felony charges, including homicide and sex crimes. Jacie is recognized for her skill in the courtroom, having tried numerous cases to verdict and built a reputation for tenacious and strategic advocacy.

She is deeply committed to protecting the constitutional rights of the accused and ensuring every client receives a fair and just defense. Beyond her trial work, Jacie provides steady guidance to clients and their families, helping them navigate the challenges of the criminal justice system with compassion and clarity. Whether handling a high-stakes felony or a misdemeanor offense, she brings the same level of preparation, focus, and dedication to achieving the best possible results for her clients statewide.

Kristie Ortega is a dedicated and passionate criminal defense attorney. Born and raised in Eastpointe, Michigan, she brings a wealth of experience from a decade as a Public Defender in the Gila River Indian Community, service as a Restorative Justice Facilitator, and many years in private practice.

Kristie is married with two children, and her strong faith carries her spirit through life’s challenges. Clients and families trust her warmth and compassion. Her practice is client-centered and holistic, she prioritizes education and client input at every step of a case’s legal decision-making to reduce stress and empower informed choices.

With 16 years of criminal defense experience, Kristie has supported clients working through substance use and mental health diagnoses and is well-versed in Arizona treatment services that promote long-term success.

Jacob Gayer’s background spans the U.S. Navy, law enforcement, and prosecution. After Nuclear Propulsion training and service on the USS Ronald Reagan and in Korea, he spent about a decade with the Hutchinson Police Department. Trained at Washburn School of Law, he later served as a prosecutor before bringing that insight to defense at Tamou Law Group.

His ability to deconstruct cases using a prosecutor’s lens strengthens his defense strategies. Jacob is licensed in Kansas, Colorado, and Arizona.