My Story

My career in law has been driven by a deep-seated desire to seek justice for people. It’s not just a profession for me; it’s a calling to make a tangible difference in the lives of those I represent.

Outside the courtroom, my life is filled with the laughter and love of my family. I cherish the time spent with my wife and children, whether we’re out on the golf course, lost in a good book, or exploring new destinations on our travels. These moments ground me and remind me of the very things I fight for in my practice.

Insights & Experiences

Some of the most rewarding moments in my practice have come from cases where I’ve been able to improve my clients’ lives significantly, especially when it comes to winning custody of children or changing the course of a client’s future by changing alimony law. There’s no greater satisfaction than knowing a family has been reunited or strengthened through my efforts.

When I act or communicate on behalf of a client, I embody an attitude of zealous, aggressive, yet ethical representation. I firmly believe that you can disagree without being disagreeable, and finding common ground is not just important—it’s essential. It’s this balance of fervor and fairness that has guided my career and will continue to do so as I advocate for those in need of a voice.

Background & Expertise

I’ve practiced law since graduating from the University of Iowa College of Law in 1996 (J.D. with Honors: Distinction and Moot Court Board). As a lifelong Iowan, I also studied Political Science as an undergraduate at Wartburg College in Waverly, Iowa (B.A. 1993).

Prior to practicing law in Polk County, Iowa, I served as a law clerk at the Iowa Judicial District 8 (B) in Burlington, Iowa in 1996 and 1997. Since then, I’ve built a legal career in appellate law. I’ve appeared in over 300 rulings from Federal and Iowa appellate courts and hundreds of family law cases. This experience, along with my belief in zealously and ethically representing clients in all interactions, means that you can put your trust and confidence in me to help you create a brighter tomorrow for you and your family.

My commitment to family law goes beyond the courtroom. My belief in the importance and impact of family law practice is so deep that I authored the Family Law Manual, published by the Iowa State Bar in 2008, 2012, and 2018. It is a primary tool used by judges and attorneys throughout the state, and a dedication to the practice of family law. More recently, I’ve authored Iowa Family Law with Forms published in 2023 by LexisNexis in collaboration with Matthew Bender.

Representative Cases

A sample of cases (primarily appellate cases) that demonstrate how a successful appeal can right a wrong or improve the situation from a prior lower court case.

• In re Marriage of Pazhoor, 971 N.W.2d 530 (Iowa 2022)
• Estate of Cawiezell v. Coronelli, 958 N.W.2d 842, 844 (Iowa 2021)
• Ruden v. Peach, 904 N.W.2d 410 (Iowa Ct. App. 2017)
• Hensch v. Mysak, 902 N.W.2d 822 (Iowa Ct. App. 2017)
• Christy v. Lenz, 878 N.W.2d 461 (Iowa Ct. App. 2016)
• In re Marriage of Sisson, 843 N.W.2d 866 (Iowa 2014)
• Shams v. Hassan, 829 N.W.2d 848 (Iowa 2013)
• Skow v. Goforth, 618 N.W. 2d 275 (Iowa 2000)