Cedar Rapids Divorce Attorneys

Protecting Your Rights and Future in Linn County

Divorce is one of life’s most difficult transitions, with legal, financial, and emotional consequences that can last for years. 

At Hope Law Firm, our Cedar Rapids divorce lawyers combine compassion with proven trial skill to help clients move forward with security and confidence.

With more than 125 years of combined litigation experience, our attorneys have guided thousands of Iowans through the divorce process — from straightforward uncontested cases to complex disputes involving businesses, farms, or high-value assets. Whether through negotiation, mediation, or trial, we fight to protect what matters most.

Call (515) 298-5056 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with a Cedar Rapids divorce lawyer.

What Our Clients Say

Divorce clients come to us during times of immense stress. What often matters most to them is knowing they have a legal team that listens, responds, and fights for their future. Here’s what former clients have shared about their experience with Hope Law Firm:

"Her knowledge of the court system put my mind at ease."

Katie Naset is amazing! I would highly recommend her to anyone going through a divorce or custody situation. – Former Client

"Charlotte Keul - The best divorce attorney!"

There is no word to explain how she helped and resolved everything that I needed in such a human and professional way. – Former Client

"Very professional and skilled.” 

I hired Katie Naset of Hope Law Firm as my divorce attorney because of her superior reviews but also because of the recommendation of one of her colleagues. – Former Client

Meet Our Cedar Rapids Divorce Team

At Hope Law Firm, our attorneys bring decades of combined experience and a shared commitment to guiding clients through divorce with both strength and compassion.

• Andrew Hope is the firm’s founder and a respected trial lawyer with extensive experience in divorce and family law. He is known for his steady leadership and ability to manage even the most complex or contentious cases.
• Katie Naset is a skilled family law attorney with a strong record in contested divorces, especially those involving custody disputes and domestic violence. She combines empathy with determined courtroom advocacy.
• Debra Hockett-Clark has more than 30 years of experience in Iowa family law. She is recognized for her practical strategies that help clients resolve disputes efficiently while protecting their long-term interests.
• Charlotte Ellen Keul focuses on divorce and custody litigation and is also an accredited mediator. She offers clients both strong advocacy in court and constructive solutions through alternative dispute resolution.

Together, our Cedar Rapids divorce team provides the experience, trial skill, and client-focused service needed to protect your rights and secure fair outcomes.

How We Handle Divorce Cases

No two divorces are alike. Some require urgent action to preserve assets or ensure safety; others may be resolved quickly through negotiation. Our approach adapts to your needs:

• Strategic Planning: From the start, we identify your priorities and create a tailored strategy for protecting your property, finances, and parental rights.
• Focused Negotiation: We aim to resolve disputes efficiently, minimizing emotional strain and expense while still pursuing fair results.
• Trial-Ready Advocacy: With over 100 bench and jury trials in Iowa courts, our attorneys are respected litigators prepared to go the distance when settlement isn’t possible.

Dividing Assets and Debts in Divorce

Iowa follows equitable distribution, which requires dividing property fairly, though not necessarily equally. Key issues include:

• Real Estate: Homes, farmland, and investment properties must be valued and divided.
• Retirement Accounts: Pensions, IRAs, and 401(k)s often require Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs).
• Businesses and Farms: Ownership interests and family enterprises require careful valuation.
• Marital Debts: Mortgages, student loans, and credit cards must also be allocated.
• Non-Financial Contributions: Courts recognize the value of homemaking and caregiving roles when dividing property.

Our lawyers are skilled at addressing these complexities, often working with financial experts to ensure clients are treated fairly.

Spousal Support (Alimony)

Spousal support in Iowa is not automatic. Courts evaluate multiple factors, including:

• Length of the marriage.
• Income disparity between spouses.
• Age, health, and future earning capacity of each party.
• The standard of living established during the marriage.

We represent clients seeking fair support as well as those defending against unreasonable requests. By presenting detailed financial evidence, we help courts arrive at balanced decisions that reflect real needs.

Divorce With Children

When children are involved, custody and support determinations become central. Judges in Linn County apply the best interests of the child standard, looking at factors such as parental involvement, stability, and safety.

Our attorneys:

• Help clients craft workable parenting plans.
• Advocate for appropriate child support based on Iowa’s guidelines.
• Address relocation issues and special needs considerations.

We know custody disputes are often the most emotionally charged part of divorce. Our role is to ensure your children’s well-being while protecting your parental rights.

Modifications After Divorce

Court orders are not set in stone. When life circumstances change, such as job relocation, income shifts, remarriage, or children’s evolving needs, you may need to revisit custody, visitation, or support. 

Our attorneys help clients petition for or defend against modifications, ensuring orders remain fair and practical.

Financial and Tax Implications of Divorce

Divorce can carry lasting financial consequences. Property transfers, spousal support, and retirement divisions may all impact your tax situation. For example:

• Property division is generally not taxable, but retirement withdrawals may be.
• Spousal support agreements finalized after 2019 are not deductible by the payer nor taxable to the recipient.
• Claiming children as dependents can affect tax benefits and must be carefully addressed in custody agreements.

Our team works closely with financial experts when needed to safeguard your financial future.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does It Take To Get Divorced In Iowa?

Iowa requires a 90-day waiting period after filing. While uncontested cases may resolve shortly after, contested divorces often take longer depending on disputes and court schedules.

Do I Have To Go To Court For My Divorce?

Not always. Many couples resolve issues through negotiation or mediation. If trial becomes necessary, our team is fully prepared to litigate in Linn County courts.

How Much Does A Divorce Cost?

Costs vary based on complexity and the level of conflict involved. We prioritize cost-efficient strategies and provide transparent billing so you understand fees upfront.

Can My Divorce Agreement Be Changed Later?

Yes. Custody, visitation, and support orders can be modified if a substantial change in circumstances occurs. Property divisions are generally final once approved.

What If My Spouse Controls All The Finances?

We can request temporary orders for spousal support, attorney fees, or access to marital funds so you are not disadvantaged during the proceedings.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

Divorce may feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Hope Law Firm, our Cedar Rapids divorce attorneys provide the strategy, support, and strong advocacy you need to move forward.

Call (515) 298-5056 today to discuss your case.