Business Details
9 Years
experience
Your Trusted Legal Partner in Altoona, Iowa
Smith Law Firm was founded in 2017 with a clear mission: to provide exceptional legal service and tailored solutions to individuals and businesses in Altoona, Iowa, and surrounding areas. Our firm combines decades of collective legal experience with a client-centric approach, ensuring that every client receives personalized attention and strategic advocacy. We specialize in estate planning, probate, Medicaid planning, litigation, and personal injury cases, leveraging our deep understanding of Iowa law to protect clients' legacies and rights. Our attorneys bring a proven track record of success in complex legal matters, including over $100 million in litigated claims.We prioritize accessibility, collaboration, and proactive communication, empowering clients to make informed decisions about their legal futures. Through monthly educational workshops, we actively engage with the community to demystify legal processes and address common concerns. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our clients' testimonials, which highlight our responsiveness, expertise, and compassionate support during challenging times.
Services
Estate Planning
Probate Services
Medicaid Planning
Litigation
Wills and Trusts
Personal Injury
Probate Litigation
Civil Litigation
Details
- Year established: 2017
Highlights and features
- 15+ years of combined experience in Iowa legal practice
- Personalized estate planning and probate guidance
- Proven track record in litigating $100M+ in claims
- Free monthly educational workshops on legal planning
- Client-focused approach with compassionate support
What people say
Highly recommend
Exceptional service
Knowledgeable attorneys
Compassionate support
Prompt communication
Services
Estate Planning
Our estate planning attorneys help clients protect assets and define their legacy through customized wills, trusts, and power of attorney documents. We guide clients through tax-efficient strategies to ensure smooth asset transfer while minimizing probate complications. Our services include living wills, trust administration, and guardianship planning for families across central Iowa.
Probate Services
We assist executors and beneficiaries in navigating probate court procedures for estate settlement. Our services include asset valuation, debt resolution, tax filings, and dispute mediation. With decades of experience, we streamline the process to minimize delays and conflicts while ensuring compliance with Iowa probate laws.
Medicaid Planning
Our Medicaid specialists help families qualify for benefits while protecting assets from estate recovery. We develop strategic plans for nursing home care and home-based services, guiding clients through Iowa's Elderly Waiver program and facility Medicaid requirements with transparent fee structures.
Personal Injury
We represent clients in personal injury cases resulting from vehicle accidents, slips/falls, and workplace incidents. Our attorneys negotiate with insurance companies and litigate when necessary to secure compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering through proven trial strategies.
Probate Litigation
Our litigators handle contested wills, trust disputes, and fiduciary breaches. We investigate undue influence claims, defend inheritance rights, and resolve executor conflicts through mediation or courtroom advocacy, leveraging deep knowledge of Iowa's complex probate codes.
People
Tyler M. Smith
Attorney and Owner
University of Iowa graduate with 20+ years of legal experience, including 7 years as Iowa Attorney General's Office trial attorney. Specializes in estate planning, probate, and litigation with $100M+ in successfully litigated claims.
Dillon Malone
Of Counsel
Drake Law School graduate with expertise in property law and business transactions. Former Editor-in-Chief of Drake Law Review, focusing on real estate, estate planning, and regulatory compliance for Iowa businesses.
Frank Smith
Of Counsel
43-year Iowa legal veteran specializing in eminent domain and probate law. Former clerk for federal courts and Best Lawyers in America honoree. Provides strategic counsel on complex estate and property matters.
Angie Zimmer
Paralegal
20-year legal professional with expertise in probate administration and real estate. Holds business administration degree from Wartburg College. Assists clients with estate documentation and trust management processes.
Jerold Lawler
Paralegal & CTO
Former U.S. Army service member with linguistics background. Manages firm technology systems while providing paralegal support in estate planning and litigation matters, combining technical expertise with legal process efficiency.
Questions
What estate planning documents do I really need?
Every adult should have a will, durable power of attorney, and healthcare directive. Depending on your assets, we may recommend trusts or tax planning strategies to protect your legacy.
How long does probate take in Iowa?
Simple estates take 6-12 months, while contested cases may last years. We streamline the process through efficient administration and proactive communication with all parties involved.
Can I qualify for Medicaid without losing my home?
Yes, with proper planning. We implement legal strategies to protect real estate assets while meeting Medicaid eligibility requirements for long-term care expenses.
What should I do immediately after a personal injury accident?
Seek medical attention first, then contact our firm before speaking with insurance companies. We'll preserve evidence, document damages, and negotiate fair compensation on your behalf.
How much does a will cost?
Basic will packages start at $300, with pricing varying based on complexity. We offer transparent pricing during your initial consultation with no hidden fees.
