Here are the finalists for the 2026 Excellence in Law Awards

Excellence in law is measured by far more than case wins or contracts closed. Across Arizona, today’s most impactful legal leaders are shaping organizations, strengthening communities and advancing missions that reach well beyond the walls of their offices. The finalists for Az Business magazine’s 2026 Excellence in Law Awards exemplify how modern legal leadership blends strategy, culture and purpose.

For Victoria Tullett, chief legal officer of Dutch Bros, success is measured by people and culture as much as milestones. While she previously helped prepare a company for an IPO, she says that accomplishment has been eclipsed by building a legal team capable of supporting Dutch Bros’ rapid expansion. “It is a privilege to lead and develop this group of smart, eager, and caring professionals,” Tullett says.

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That theme of enabling growth and innovation continues with Mac Woods, general counsel of ASU Enterprise Partners and the ASU Foundation. Over the past year, Woods and his legal team supported record-setting philanthropic gifts that will accelerate Arizona State University’s global impact. “Through our other affiliates, we advanced innovations like Dreamscape Learn, reenvisioned local journalism through NEWSWELL, and led the sector with persistence and optimism,” Woods says.

For Benjamin Taylor of Taylor & Gomez Law, excellence carries historic significance. Taylor made history as the first African-American president of the State Bar of Arizona in its 90-year history. “The election broke historic barriers, expanded representation, inspired future lawyers, and signaled progress toward inclusion,” he says.

Mission-driven impact also defines the work of Sofia-Pia Bales, legal counsel at Hospice of the Valley. She points to the organization’s Dementia Care and Education Campus as a powerful example of legal leadership supporting compassionate, patient-centered care. “Serving a nonprofit so dedicated to quality of life is truly meaningful,” Bales says.

Together, these finalists demonstrate that excellence in law is not just about legal acumen — it’s about leadership that drives progress, builds trust and creates lasting impact across Arizona.

In partnership the State Bar of Arizona, and Arizona Corporate Counsel, Az Business magazine will host the 2026 Excellence in Law Awards on March 31, 2026, at Chateau Luxe in Phoenix to recognize the important and vital role that in-house counsel and Arizona’s legal sector plays in the success of Arizona’s economy. The 2026 Excellence in Law Awards are presented with the support of Title Sponsors Cresa and Ogletree Deakins and Platinum Sponsor Phillips Law Group. The digital sponsor of the 2026 Excellence in Law Awards is DM Cantor. To purchase tickets for the 2026 Excellence in Law Awards, click here.

Finalists for the 2026 Excellence in Law Awards

Here are the finalists for the 2026 Excellence in Law Awards, who represent the most innovative and influential legal minds in Arizona. We will spotlight one category each day leading up to the 2026 Excellence in Law Awards on March 31.