Family Law
Since 1928, Clark, Butler, Walsh & Hamann has guided individuals and families throughout Waterloo, Black Hawk County, and Northeast Iowa through some of life’s most personal legal matters. Our attorneys provide steady and compassionate counsel in a wide range of family law cases, including divorce, child custody, support arrangements, and adoption. With deep knowledge of Iowa family law and decades of courtroom experience, we are committed to helping you navigate difficult transitions and reach outcomes that protect your future and your family.
Family Law Services Overview
Family law matters can be deeply personal and often come with emotional and legal challenges. Whether you are going through a divorce or addressing custody concerns, it is important to understand your options and make informed decisions. A successful family law case often involves working through several important steps, including:
- Dividing marital property and assets
- Establishing child custody and visitation arrangements
- Determining child support and spousal support
- Creating parenting plans that work for everyone involved
- Addressing modifications to existing court orders
- Navigating court procedures and legal requirements
Because every family situation is unique, it is important to work with an attorney who understands the law and will advocate for your best interests. At Clark, Butler, Walsh & Hamann, we offer thoughtful legal guidance to help clients move forward with clarity and confidence.
Our Focus Areas
At Clark, Butler, Walsh & Hamann, we provide trusted legal support across a wide range of family law matters. Our attorneys are committed to offering thoughtful, results oriented guidance tailored to each client’s unique situation. Whether you are navigating a divorce, working through custody arrangements, or seeking a modification to an existing order, we are here to protect your interests with skill, clarity, and care.
Child Custody
Family Support
Divorce
Guardianships
Frequently Asked Questions
Got questions? We’ve got answers. In this section, we’ve compiled some of the most frequently asked questions to help you better understand our services and how we can assist with your legal needs.
What is the difference between legal custody and physical custody?
Legal custody refers to the right to make major decisions about a child’s life, such as education and medical care. Physical custody refers to where the child lives and who provides daily care. In many cases, parents share both legal and physical custody.
How is child support calculated in Iowa?
Child support is calculated using state guidelines that take into account the income of both parents, the number of children, and other factors such as health care costs and child care expenses.
How long does a divorce take in Iowa?
The timeline can vary, but Iowa has a mandatory waiting period of ninety days after the divorce petition is served. Some cases are resolved quickly, while others take longer depending on the complexity of the issues involved.
Do I need a lawyer for a divorce if we both agree on everything?
Even in an uncontested divorce, it is a good idea to consult a lawyer. An attorney can help make sure everything is filed correctly and that your rights are protected, especially when children or property are involved.
Can custody arrangements be changed after a divorce?
Yes. If there has been a significant change in circumstances, such as a move or a change in a parent’s ability to care for the child, custody arrangements can be modified through the court.
What happens if one parent does not follow the custody order?
If a parent violates a custody order, the other parent can ask the court to enforce it. This may involve legal remedies such as make-up parenting time or other court-ordered changes.
Do grandparents have visitation rights in Iowa?
In certain cases, grandparents may be granted visitation rights if it is in the best interest of the child and certain legal standards are met. These situations can be complex and are evaluated on a case by case basis.
How is property divided in a divorce?
Iowa follows the principle of equitable distribution. This means property is divided fairly, though not always equally. The court considers factors such as the length of the marriage, each spouse’s contributions, and future earning potential.
Why Choose Clark, Butler, Walsh & Hamann?
With over 90 years of experience, our firm stands out for its dedication to personalized service, proven expertise across multiple practice areas, and a commitment to delivering results. Whether you’re facing personal legal challenges or complex business disputes, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Discover the difference with our expert legal team
