Practice Areas

Juvenile Criminal Defense

Family Law

Criminal Defense

Business & Contract Law

Wills, Trusts & Estate Planning

Bankruptcy

Caring And Professional Guidance Since 1968

Our lawyers and staff provide the friendly faces and knowledgeable guidance you need to overcome whatever legal challenges come your way.

All DUI Charges Dismissed

CRIMINAL DEFENSE

We successfully challenged the constitutionality of a traffic stop, leading to suppression of key evidence and dismissal of all charges.

$200,000 Settlement

FAMILY LAW

We negotiated a favorable settlement in a divorce case that landed our client approximately $200,000 more in assets than originally offered.

Felony Avoided, Sentence Suspended

CRIMINAL DEFENSE

We negotiated a plea that reduced a felony assault down to a misdemeanor with a suspended sentence.

Focused On The Legal Concerns And Life Challenges That Matter To You

We focus our practice on the legal areas of vital importance to people across the spectrum of life in Iowa. These include divorce and family law, criminal defense, debt relief through bankruptcy, personal injury and property damage, business law and business formation, contracts, real estate, and probate and estate law.

Meet Our Attorneys

The four attorneys at our firm share a commitment to putting clients first. They will work tirelessly to guide you through the legal system while protecting your rights and interests each step of the way.

Constance Peschang Stannard

Constance Peschang Stannard

Steven Klesner

Steven Klesner

David Burbidge

David Burbidge

Shawn M. Fitzgerald

Shawn M. Fitzgerald

Serving Iowa City And Cedar Rapids For 50 Years

The Benefit Of Overlapping Areas Of Practice

Legal problems don’t exist in a vacuum. Many issues can impact multiple areas of your life in a drastic way. For example, a criminal charge can have a substantial effect on the outcome of a divorce or child custody case, and a divorce can have a substantial impact on a business organization or estate plan.

Here, you benefit from our well-rounded practice and ability to address these overlapping legal issues.

No matter what kind of legal issue you’re facing, you can count on us to fight for what matters most to you.

What Our Clients Say

I owe everything to him and his expertise with the law. I highly recommend Mr. Fitzgerald to anyone needing a very good attorney.”

– Former Client

Excellent, very helpful. Always had an answer for any questions. Steve’s assistant, Dawn, was very helpful, too. Would definitely recommend him to others.” 

– Anita

“Shawn did a great job with my case. I would definitely use him again if I need to and I would definitely tell other people to use him also. Thanks for a great job, Shawn.”

“Steve understands that legal proceedings can be intimidating, if not downright scary. He and his staff are responsive and thorough. I have never met a more knowledgeable lawyer.”

– Bob

“Excellent attorney with integrity!”

– Oona

The Personal Service And Dedicated Advocacy You Deserve

No matter what stage of life you’re in – whether a college student, parent or senior – you can turn to our law firm with confidence that you will be treated with care and respect. You will work closely with an attorney who has in-depth knowledge of the law relevant to your case. We will work with you to explore all viable options for accomplishing your goals in the most efficient and effective manner possible.

Help For Life’s Challenges

We are a debt relief agency. We help people file for bankruptcy relief under the Bankruptcy Code.

Reviews | 5 Stars Out of 5 Reviews | Shawn Michael Fitzgerald | Avvo
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