Jody Kersten Bauer, Probate Attorney in West Des Moines, Iowa

Jody concentrates on probate, trusts, and wills. Each area below outlines the kind of case Jody handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Probate

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• Trusts

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• Wills

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Jody's primary office is at 1415 28th St., Ste. 160, West Des Moines, IA, 50266. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Working with a new probate attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Jody usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Jody discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in probate practice — ask which fits.

• How much does it cost to hire Jody for a probate case?

  Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Jody walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

• Does Jody offer a free consultation?

  Jody charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Jody's office. Some probate attorneys offer free consults — check Jody's current terms during booking.

• How long do probate cases in Iowa typically take?

  Simple probate matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Jody gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Jody take my case if I'm outside West Des Moines?

  Jody is licensed in Iowa. Matters governed by Iowa law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Jody will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

• What should I bring to my first meeting with Jody?

  Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Jody will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Jody accepting new probate clients right now?

  Jody's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.