If you are contemplating or are in the midst of a divorce and seek aggressive, experienced representation, call Patrick L. Wilson for a free, confidential consultation (515) 822-0203. Calls are answered live, 24/7.

Iowa Divorce Rules

• There is a 90 day waiting period. It starts the day your spouse is served with the papers. It is possible to seek a waiver of the 90 day waiting period but you must have a very good reason to ask the court to waive this time period.

• If you and your spouse have a dispute over anything, it could take much longer than 90 days to get the divorce.

• Iowa law is no-fault meaning you need not have a reason to get divorced. Your spouse cannot stop you from getting a divorce. By their actions they may cause a delay but eventually, you will be able to secure a divorce.

• If your spouse is not a resident of Iowa, you must have lived here for the past year.

• Patrick L. Wilson cannot represent you and your spouse. The rules of professional conduct require that a lawyer meet with and discuss the case with one of the parties, not both. If you or your partner have discussed having one lawyer represent you both, this is not ethical and the entry of a decree under such conditions will be subject to being set aside.

• If you are in agreement with your spouse to resolve all issues, your spouse would not need to hire an attorney. However, the decision on whether to hire an attorney or not rests with your spouse. Counsel is not allowed to meet with or speak to your spouse nor will he give your spouse advice.

• If everything can be agreed upon, neither party will have to go to court to finalize the divorce. The papers can be prepared, signed and submitted to the court by counsel.

• Attorney fees are paid by the client. If your spouse intends to help pay the legal bill, he or she would need to give the money to the client. The client would then pay counsel.

Child Support

Child support in Iowa is calculated using Guidelines adopted by the Iowa Supreme Court. To obtain an estimate of child support in your case, click here.

Fees and Expenses

• Uncontested, no children or real property involved. Fees paid in advance $500 plus court costs of approximately $250.
• Uncontested with children or real property. Fees paid in advance $1,000 plus court costs of approximately $250.00.
• Contested (no children or real property). Fees paid in advance $1,500 plus court costs. All time charged hourly.
• Contested with children. Fees paid in advance $2,500 plus court costs. All time charged hourly.
• Credit cards are accepted via PayPal.

Call now for your free consultation with Patrick Wilson: 515-822-0203