Iowa City Divorce Attorneys

Protecting Your Rights During Divorce in Johnson County

Divorce is one of the most challenging experiences a person can face — emotionally, financially, and legally. At Hope Law Firm, we understand what’s at stake. Our Iowa City divorce lawyers have decades of combined experience helping clients protect their families, their property, and their futures when marriages come to an end.

With a proven record in both litigation and mediation, we are equipped to handle divorces of every kind, from straightforward uncontested matters to high-asset cases involving businesses, real estate, and retirement accounts. Our team provides the steady guidance you need during this transition while fighting aggressively when your rights must be protected in court.

Why Choose Hope Law Firm for Divorce

• Decades of Family Law Experience: Thousands of divorces resolved across Iowa, including contested and high-net-worth cases.
• Mediation & Trial Strength: Over 1,000 mediations handled, plus more than 100 jury and bench trials in Iowa courts.
• Respected Advocates: Award-winning attorneys with a reputation for compassion with clients and toughness in the courtroom.
• Personalized Counsel: Tailored legal strategies that reflect your goals, your family’s needs, and your financial circumstances.

Call (515) 298-5056 or contact us online to discuss your divorce with an Iowa City divorce lawyer.

Client Testimonials

Our divorce clients trust us to guide them through some of life’s most difficult moments.

"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

"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

Meet Our Divorce Team

• Andrew Hope: Founder and University of Iowa graduate, Andrew has built one of Iowa’s most trusted divorce practices. He is known for his steady counsel and litigation skill.
• Katie Naset: An accomplished divorce attorney with extensive experience in cases involving custody disputes and domestic violence.
• Debra Hockett-Clark: With more than 30 years of experience, Debra provides innovative strategies designed to avoid costly litigation while protecting clients’ rights.
• Charlotte Ellen Keul: Charlotte focuses her practice on divorce, custody, visitation, and child support litigation. She is also an Iowa State Bar–accredited mediator, bringing valuable alternative dispute resolution skills to family law cases.

Types of Divorce We Handle

Divorce is not one-size-fits-all. Our Iowa City divorce lawyers have experience handling a broad range of cases, each with its own legal and emotional complexities:

• Contested Divorce: When spouses cannot agree on issues like property division, custody, or support, the case must go before a judge. We prepare thoroughly for litigation, gathering evidence and presenting compelling arguments to protect your interests in court.
• Uncontested Divorce: If both spouses can agree on all terms, divorce can move more quickly and cost less. We guide clients through paperwork, settlement agreements, and court approval to ensure everything is done correctly and enforceable.
• High-Asset Divorce: Divorces involving substantial assets, such as businesses, professional practices, real estate portfolios, or significant retirement accounts, require careful valuation and division. We work with financial experts to protect your property rights and ensure a fair outcome.
• Military Divorce: Service members and their spouses face unique legal issues, including division of military pensions, deployment-related custody arrangements, and jurisdiction across state or federal lines. Our attorneys understand these challenges and know how to address them effectively.
• Divorce With Children: Custody and parenting time disputes are often the most emotionally charged part of divorce. We prioritize your children’s stability and advocate for custody arrangements that serve their best interests while protecting your parental rights.

Key Divorce Issues in Iowa

Every divorce requires resolution of certain core issues before a final decree can be entered. These decisions will shape your financial security and family relationships for years to come:

• Property Division: Iowa follows equitable distribution, which means the court divides assets and debts fairly, though not necessarily 50/50. Judges look at the length of the marriage, contributions of each spouse (including non-financial contributions like homemaking), and each spouse’s financial situation when determining a fair division. Complex property such as farms, small businesses, and retirement accounts often requires additional legal and financial analysis.
• Spousal Support (Alimony): Alimony is not automatic in Iowa. Courts consider factors such as each spouse’s earning capacity, financial need, health, and contributions to the marriage when deciding whether to award support. Different types of alimony may apply, including traditional, rehabilitative, or reimbursement alimony, depending on the circumstances.
• Child Custody & Support: Custody decisions in Iowa are based on the best interests of the child. Courts often favor joint legal custody but will determine physical custody and parenting schedules based on factors like parental fitness, stability, and the child’s needs. Child support is calculated using Iowa’s child support guidelines but may be adjusted if circumstances change significantly. Our attorneys ensure custody and support orders reflect both the law and the realities of your family’s situation.

The Divorce Process in Johnson County

Clients often ask what to expect. In Iowa, divorce typically involves these steps:

1. Filing the Petition: One spouse (the petitioner) files for dissolution of marriage in Johnson County District Court.
2. Serving the Respondent: The other spouse must be formally notified.
3. Waiting Period: Iowa requires a 90-day waiting period after service before a divorce can be finalized (with limited exceptions).
4. Mediation: Courts may require mediation to encourage resolution outside of trial.
5. Trial (If Needed): If disputes remain, the case proceeds to trial, where a judge issues final orders on property, custody, and support.
6. Final Decree: The court enters a decree that legally ends the marriage and sets enforceable terms.

Divorce FAQ

How Long Does Divorce Take in Iowa?

Most divorces take at least 90 days due to Iowa’s waiting period. Complex or contested cases can take longer, depending on the issues involved.

Do I Need To Be Separated Before Filing For Divorce?

No. Iowa does not require spouses to be separated before filing for divorce.

How Does Iowa Divide Property?

Iowa is an equitable distribution state. Property is divided fairly based on factors like length of the marriage, contributions of each spouse, and future earning potential.

Can I Get Temporary Custody Or Support During The Divorce?

Yes. Courts may issue temporary orders for custody, visitation, child support, or spousal support while the divorce is pending.

What Happens If We Cannot Agree On Everything?

If mediation and negotiation fail, the case proceeds to trial. A judge will decide unresolved issues. Having a trial-tested lawyer is critical to protect your rights.

Discuss Your Options with an Iowa City Divorce Lawyer 

Divorce is never easy, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Hope Law Firm, our Iowa City divorce attorneys provide the guidance and advocacy you need to move forward.

Call (515) 298-5056 today to schedule your consultation.