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Your Trusted Legal Advocates in Des Moines
At Van Cleaf McCormack Law Firm, we have dedicated our careers to providing compassionate legal counsel tailored to the unique needs of each client. With nearly two decades of combined experience in family law, juvenile law, and criminal defense, we prioritize understanding your goals to craft strategic solutions. Our attorneys, Jacob Van Cleaf and Colin McCormack, founded this practice with a commitment to client-oriented service, ensuring transparency and regular communication throughout every case. We believe legal representation should extend beyond courtroom advocacy, offering a support system to guide families through challenging transitions. Our approach combines deep knowledge of Iowa's legal landscape with a focus on minimizing stress during emotionally charged situations.

By maintaining open dialogue and setting realistic expectations, we empower clients to make informed decisions about their futures. The firm's reputation for integrity stems from our unwavering dedication to protecting clients' rights while pursuing fair resolutions. Our office manager, Amelia Wildt, ensures every client interaction reflects our core values of empathy and professionalism. Whether navigating divorce proceedings, custody disputes, or criminal charges, we treat each case with the individualized attention it deserves. This philosophy has earned us the trust of Des Moines families who value both legal expertise and genuine care.
Services
Family Law Divorce Criminal Defense Juvenile Law Custody
Highlights and features
  • We provide personalized legal strategies informed by nearly two decades of combined experience
  • Our attorneys maintain transparent communication throughout every stage of your case
  • We prioritize understanding clients' unique family circumstances before developing legal approaches
  • Office systems ensure consistent follow-up and timely updates for all clients
  • Local Des Moines focus enables deep understanding of regional court procedures and expectations
What people say
Awesome job Primary Custody Excellent attorneys Highly recommend
Services
Family Law
Our family law practice addresses divorce, custody, and child support matters with sensitivity and precision. We help clients navigate emotionally complex issues while protecting their parental rights and financial interests. Our attorneys develop customized solutions that balance legal strategy with compassion for all family members involved.
Criminal Defense
We defend clients facing criminal charges with aggressive advocacy and thorough case preparation. Our approach focuses on minimizing consequences while preserving clients' rights throughout the legal process. We handle both misdemeanor and felony cases with equal dedication to achieving favorable outcomes.
Juvenile Law
Our juvenile law practice focuses on protecting young offenders' futures through rehabilitative approaches. We work to resolve cases with minimal long-term consequences while addressing underlying issues. Our experience with Iowa's juvenile justice system helps families navigate complex legal and social challenges.
Divorce
We guide clients through divorce proceedings with strategic counsel on property division, alimony, and co-parenting arrangements. Our goal is to achieve equitable resolutions while minimizing conflict. We prepare for trial when necessary but prioritize negotiated settlements that preserve family relationships.
Custody
Our custody practice focuses on creating parenting plans that serve children's best interests. We advocate for clients in primary custody disputes and modification cases. Our experience with Iowa custody laws helps parents understand and meet evolving legal standards for child welfare.
People
Jacob Van Cleaf
Attorney at Law
Jacob Van Cleaf founded this client-oriented practice after graduating from Drake University Law School. He focuses on family law and criminal defense, bringing personal experience with Des Moines legal systems to each case.
Colin McCormack
Attorney at Law
Colin McCormack combines childhood aspirations with legal expertise to advocate for clients in juvenile and criminal law cases. His practice emphasizes helping clients through difficult personal circumstances with dedicated representation.
Amelia Wildt
Office Manager
Amelia Wildt coordinates client interactions and case management, ensuring smooth office operations. She serves as the primary point of contact for clients seeking legal services in family and criminal law matters.
Questions
What legal services do you specialize in?
We focus on family law, criminal defense, and juvenile law cases in Des Moines, Iowa.
Do you offer free initial consultations?
Yes, we provide free consultations to discuss your legal situation and potential strategies.
How do you handle child custody cases?
We develop parenting plans prioritizing children's well-being while protecting parental rights under Iowa law.
Can you represent me in criminal charges?
Our firm defends clients facing misdemeanor and felony charges with strategic courtroom advocacy.
What makes your law firm different?
We combine personal attention with decades of local legal experience to deliver compassionate, results-driven representation.