Jon Laydon Staudt, Estate Planning Attorney in Des Moines, Iowa

Jon concentrates on estate planning, tax, and trusts. Each area below outlines the kind of case Jon handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Estate Planning

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• Tax

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• Trusts

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Jon's primary office is at 606 Walnut Street, Suite 2000, Des Moines, IA, 50309. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

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

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

• How much does it cost to hire Jon for a estate planning case?

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

• Does Jon offer a free consultation?

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

• How long do estate planning cases in Iowa typically take?

  Simple estate planning 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. Jon gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

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

  Jon 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 — Jon 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 Jon?

  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. Jon will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Jon accepting new estate planning clients right now?

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