Joel N. Thurston

Joel N. Thurston holds a B.A. in Biblical Theology, an M.Div., and a J.D., after which he served ten years in government before joining private practice. Over twelve years, he taught religious studies at Glendale Community College and remains a founding elder and resident theologian at Journey Church in Peoria, Arizona, where his family has attended since 2004. As managing partner of Keist Thurston Law Firm since 2017, Joel builds on a 30-year legacy by opening a second Peoria office and advancing the firm’s five “C” mission—Christian, client-centered, competent, creative, and competitive.

Joel’s litigation practice spans civil and family law—from personal injury and contract disputes to high-conflict divorces, child custody, and probate—handling complex, high-value cases, including settlements exceeding $10 million. A counselor at heart, he champions mediation to spare clients expense, delay, and heartache, especially in divorce and custody matters. An elite ultramarathoner who has run up to 250 mile races, Joel embodies the persistence he brings to every case. Grounded in prayer and faith, he strives to live out the fruits of the Spirit and attributes every strength to his Heavenly Father.