Roopali represents four initiative campaigns who filed a Petition for Special Action with the Arizona Supreme Court to seek an order permitting them to use the E-Qual system to obtain online signatures

Roopali Desai, one of Arizona’s leading political and election lawyers and civil litigators, was named Best Capitol/Political Lawyer in the 2019 Best of the Capitol awards presented by Arizona Capitol Times. These awards honor local individuals and organizations who have the greatest impact on Arizona politics and policy, and who are dedicated to making a difference in Arizona.

Nominees for Best Capitol/Political Lawyer are experts in government law and policy, as well as election law.  They use their expertise and experience to obtain successes for their clients, which include candidates, political committees, and corporations among others, and to shape the future of the state. Honorees demonstrate a deep understanding of the government and legal system and are highly respected by their peers and across party lines.

“It’s no surprise that the Arizona Capitol Times recognized Roopali as the state’s top political lawyer,” said Kent Brockelman, managing partner of Coppersmith Brockelman. “Her rare combination of passion, intellect, skill, and strong work ethic makes her a tremendous advocate for her clients.”

Roopali advises clients on all aspects of election law including campaign finance compliance, disclosure and reporting requirements, and bringing and defending election challenges. She is especially known for her experience representing initiative, referendum, and recall campaigns, and has served as legal counsel for numerous successful statewide and local measures.  She is experienced in drafting ballot language and preparing initiative and referendum petitions. Further, she is skilled in defending and prosecuting various types of pre- and post-election challenges to initiatives, referendum, and recalls, including seeking injunctive relief.

The Best of the Capitol awards has honored individuals and organizations across Arizona for 13 years, celebrating the winners’ incredible contributions to the community. Winners are selected by their peers and show a commitment to building a better Arizona.

View the full list of Best of the Capitol award winners.