Civil Litigation

When a dispute cannot be resolved at the table, it gets resolved somewhere else. We represent individuals and businesses in Iowa state courts and in both federal districts, from the first demand letter through trial and appeal.

What we handle

Contract disputes

Real property, boundary, and easement disputes

Business and partnership disputes

Collections and judgment enforcement

Personal injury claims

Construction disputes

Appeals

Read this before you sue

The honest version of the conversation we have with most people who walk in angry.

What it costs. Litigation is priced by the hour and paced by the court's calendar, not yours. Before we file, we want you to know roughly what the next twelve months look like in fees.

What it takes from you. Discovery means producing your documents, sitting for a deposition, and answering questions about decisions you made years ago. It is intrusive, and it is not optional once you are in.

Whether you can actually collect. A judgment against someone with no assets is a piece of paper. We would rather ask this question first than at the end.

What settlement is worth. Most cases settle. The question is whether you settle now, or after spending the difference in fees to get to the same number later.

None of that is a reason not to sue. Sometimes the answer is clearly yes. It is a reason to go in with the real picture.

Common questions

How long do I have to bring a claim?

It depends entirely on the type of claim, and Iowa's deadlines are unforgiving — miss one and a good case is gone regardless of the merits. If you think you may have a claim, the time to ask is now, not when you have finished being annoyed about it.

Can I make the other side pay my attorney fees?

Usually not. Iowa follows the general rule that each side pays its own fees unless a contract between you says otherwise or a statute provides for them. Check your contract before you assume.

Do you handle federal cases?

Yes. Ben Lange is admitted in both the Northern and Southern Districts of Iowa, so a case that belongs in federal court does not have to change hands.

Got a demand letter, or need to send one? Bring us what you have.