Our Team
Tait D. Elkie
Attorney • Veteran • Community Leader
Tait is a graduate of Arizona State University in Tempe, Arizona, where he earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Justice Studies in 1997. He then attended California Western School of Law in San Diego, California where he earned his Juris Doctor Degree in 2002.
Michele Elkie
Chief Operating Officer
Michele Elkie has been an integral part of Fountain Hills Law Firm since its founding in 2008. As Chief Operating Officer (COO), she draws on her background in education, business administration, and organizational leadership to support efficient firm operations, with a focus on financial accountability and client service.
A graduate of York University in Ontario, Canada, Michele earned an Honours Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology and Education. Prior to entering the legal field, she enjoyed a successful career as an elementary school educator, where she developed the communication, leadership, and organizational skills that continue to inform her work today.
In her role as COO, Michele oversees financial operations, cash flow management, and strategic financial planning, including trust accounting and regulatory compliance to ensure the safeguarding of client funds and adherence to professional and ethical standards. She also leads the firm’s human resources and administrative functions, including payroll, personnel management, and records administration.
Outside of her professional responsibilities, Michele maintains a personal interest in holistic well-being, quantum mechanics, and consciousness studies. She is a Certified Practitioner and Embodiment Guide in several bioenergetic modalities and integrates principles of balance, integrity, compassion, and self-stewardship into both her professional and personal life, with a focus on service to others.
Marites “Tes” Quezada
Director of Client Relations
Tes earned her Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications from St. Scholastica’s College in Manila, Philippines. Before joining Fountain Hills Law Firm in 2017, she spent years working in her family’s business in administration and sales, building a strong foundation in customer service and day-to-day operations. She also gained valuable retail experience with several companies in the Boston area.
As Director of Client Relations, Tes is often the first voice clients hear and the first face they see when they walk through the door. She manages front office reception and phone communications with warmth and professionalism, while also overseeing a variety of administrative responsibilities that help keep the office running smoothly. Her goal is always to make sure every client feels welcomed and well taken care of from the very first interaction.
Outside of work, Tes enjoys spending quality time with family, running, hiking, and exploring new restaurants. She is passionate about health and wellness and believes in maintaining an active lifestyle that supports both physical and mental well-being.
Samantha Podwojski
Senior Paralegal and Marketing Specialist
Samantha joined Fountain Hills Law Firm in 2020 after earning her Paralegal Certificate from the University of Arizona. Since then, she has become a key part of the firm’s day-to-day legal work and client experience.
As Senior Paralegal, Samantha assists with drafting estate planning documents, communicates directly with insurance adjusters, manages case information, and provides support across a variety of matters. She takes pride in keeping clients informed and supported every step of the way. In her role as Marketing Specialist, Samantha oversees the firm’s marketing and community outreach efforts, helping strengthen the firm’s connection with clients and the community it serves.
When she’s not at the office, Samantha can usually be found with a good book nearby or playing with her two energetic boxer pups, who keep her on her toes.
Stacy Podwojski
Paralegal
Stacy joined Fountain Hills Law Firm in 2025, bringing with her years of experience working in family-owned businesses. As a Paralegal, she assists with document preparation, case support, client communications, and the collection and organization of medical records for personal injury matters. Her attention to detail and commitment to client service help ensure that matters progress smoothly and efficiently.
Stacy values building meaningful relationships with clients and providing support during their legal matters, understanding that legal matters can often be stressful and unfamiliar territory for the people she serves. One of the aspects of her role she enjoys most is the opportunity to work alongside her daughter, Samantha, as part of the Fountain Hills Law Firm team.
In her free time, Stacy enjoys gardening, volunteering in the community, and spending time with family and friends.
Emilie Elkie
Public Relations and Office Assistant
Born and raised in Arizona, Emilie Elkie is a true native of the Grand Canyon State and an integral part of the Fountain Hills Law Firm family. Although she may be the youngest member of the team, she has already earned a reputation as the firm’s most determined negotiator, approaching every challenge with confidence, persistence, and an unwavering commitment to achieving her goals.
Emilie’s enthusiasm, curiosity, and vibrant personality make her a favorite among clients and staff alike. Whether welcoming visitors, assisting around the office, or engaging clients in conversation, she brings a positive energy that brightens everyone’s day. Her natural ability to connect with people, combined with her outgoing nature and quick wit, has made her the unofficial Chief Happiness Officer for the firm.
As the daughter of Tait and Michele Elkie, Emilie has grown up surrounded by a family dedicated to serving their community and helping others. When she is not focused on school, she enjoys spending time at the office, learning about the family business, assisting the staff, and ensuring that every client feels welcome.
While her future career path remains to be seen, one thing is certain: Emilie possesses the determination, leadership, and charm necessary to succeed at whatever she chooses to pursue. Until then, she remains the pride and joy of her parents and one of the most beloved faces at Fountain Hills Law Firm.