Going through a divorce is a life-changing event, and in addition to the stress that divorce puts on a family, the complex legal requirements of the process can make it even more difficult. We are here to help you through the process. 

Initial Petition and Pre-Trial

In the 5th Judicial District in Iowa, which compromises the majority of the Des Moines metro area, we have a few additional steps. All divorces in Iowa start with one party filing a Petition for Dissolution, and the other party either has to be formally served or accept service of the dissolution action. In addition to the normal legal processes that are required to start a dissolution action, in the 5th Judicial District, we have a Pre-Trial Conference that is set ninety (90) days after filing of the action.

Pre-Trial Process

The pre-trial conference requirements in the 5th district are a benchmark for parties to complete and exchange financial information and attend a Children in the Middle class, for dissolutions with minor children. The financial information is comprised of completing and filing an Affidavit of Financial Status and Child Support Guidelines. An Affidavit of Financial status is a disclosure of the parties individual and marital assets, debts, and property.

Child Support Guidelines calculate the amount of child support based on the parties’ income and proposed custodial arrangement. The parties are also required to attend a short class called “Children in the Middle” which is a class for parents going through dissolutions to remind them to put their kids first while going through this difficult process.

Let McCormally & Cosgrove Help

Divorce is a complex matter that requires a lawyer with empathy and expertise. When you file for dissolution, McCormally & Cosgrove, PLLC will assist you in fulfilling these requirements for your dissolution action.

Being in an automobile accident is a terrifying experience. It is a daunting task to deal with vehicle repairs, insurance companies, and medical appointments for your injuries. You may be overwhelmed by the entire process, but McCormally & Cosgrove, PLLC can help. 

Can Insurance Help? 

When you are negotiating a claim with an insurance company, generally they will not pay for your medical bills until the parties come to a final agreement. This will leave most people wondering how they will cover medical bills while their case is pending. Luckily, most auto insurance policies have “Medical Payments Coverage” which can help cover the expenses you incur when you are injured in a motor vehicle accident. Most policies can help cover medical bills, insurance co-pays, deductibles, physical therapy, and medical supplies needed for your recovery.

Give Us A Call

The lawyers of McCormally & Cosgrove, PLLC have years of experience helping clients navigate the complexity complex insurance claims. If you are injured in an automotive accident, we can make sure you get the coverage you deserve.

Starting a business is an exciting endeavor, but it is also one in which you want to make sure that you have handled all of the paperwork correctly. We help many clients start businesses, purchase businesses, and help business clients maintain their proper filings in accordance with the laws of the State of Iowa.

When you start a business, choosing the best entity for your business is the first decision you will need to make. Not all businesses are alike and making sure you have chosen the correct entity to fit your business needs and goals can make all the difference.

From choosing the right entity formation for your business, to litigating contractual matters, enforcing non-competes, or negotiating buy-sell agreements, we can assist you with all your business needs.

Once you have decided on your entity there are many other matters that you will need to determine including, but not limited to: employee matters, insurance, regulatory matters, state and federal law requirements, sales tax collection if applicable, contractual issues, and lease matters. These are just a few of the things that the attorneys at McCormally & Cosgrove have experience in and can assist you in your business planning needs.

Types of Business Entities

The most common type of business entities are sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, and a limited liability company (LLC).

Each entity has different legal requirements and we will work with you to review what is best for your business. Depending on what structure you choose, there are certain filings that are required to be completed and filed with the Iowa Secretary of State, as well as setting up your tax identification with the IRS and the Iowa Department of Revenue. 

Get Started

The legal requirements of starting a business can be difficult to navigate. We can advise you on what is the best entity formation for your business and assist you with completing the correct paperwork and setting up your business.