Create A Will With The Support Of Council Bluffs Estate Planning Attorneys
Last updated on March 3, 2026
A will is a legal document that helps ensure your assets go to the people you choose. It also names your minor children’s guardian. Without a will in place, Iowa law makes these decisions for you.
Since opening our doors in 1952, Telpner Peterson Law Firm, LLP, has been a trusted name in Council Bluffs. Many of our attorneys have been peer-review rated AV Preeminent* through Martindale-Hubbell, reflecting our commitment to legal excellence. Our deep roots in the community mean we understand what matters to Iowa families and provide clear and forward-thinking legal guidance.
What Makes A Will Valid In Iowa?
Under Iowa Code Section 633.279, a will must meet specific requirements to be legally enforceable. These criteria include:
- One must be at least 18 years old and of sound mind.
- The will must be in writing.
- You must sign the will at the end of the document.
- At least two competent witnesses must watch you sign and then sign the will themselves in your presence.
These rules are in place to help prevent disputes and fraud. In most cases, a missing signature or improper witnessing can render a will invalid. This careful preparation gives us the leverage needed to pursue a fair outcome for you and your family.
Having spent years as Iowa wills attorneys, we know that even a small mistake can create significant legal problems. Our role is to step in quickly to provide the support you need. We know this process can feel daunting. Instead of navigating it alone, let us handle the legal details with care and precision.
Wills Vs. Trusts
Wills and trusts both serve the same basic purpose: to ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes after your death. However, there are some critical differences between the two.
When you are new to estate planning, the terms “will” and “trust” can seem confusing. Here are some of the distinguishing features of these common estate planning documents.
- Wills are relatively simple documents to create
- Wills are subject to probate, a court-supervised process that ensures that your wishes are carried out
- Wills can be revoked or amended at any time
- Trusts are more complex documents to create than wills
- Trusts are not subject to probate, which can save time and money
- Trusts can be more flexible than wills, as they can be designed to meet specific needs
Depending on your goals and circumstances, you may only need a will or a combination of a will and one or more trusts. Our estate planning attorneys at Telpner Peterson Law Firm, LLP, can help answer questions you have about which is the most appropriate choice.
Understanding When To Use A Will
A will is a good option if you have simple estate planning needs and want to keep your assets out of probate. A will is also a good option if you have minor children and want to name a guardian for them.
Knowing When A Trust Makes Sense
A trust is a good option if you have complex estate planning needs, such as avoiding probate, minimizing estate taxes or providing for a special needs child. A trust is also a good option if you want to give someone the power as a trust administrator to manage your assets while you are alive, such as if you are incapacitated.
Your Peace Of Mind Is Our Priority
Let our seven decades of experience in Council Bluffs guide you in creating a will that protects your family and your legacy. Call Telpner Peterson Law Firm, LLP, via 712-309-3738 or fill out the online contact form to schedule a meeting with our team.
*AV®, AV Preeminent®, Martindale-Hubbell Distinguished and Martindale-Hubbell Notable are certification marks used under license in accordance with the Martindale-Hubbell certification procedures, standards and policies. Martindale-Hubbell® is the facilitator of a peer-review rating process. Ratings reflect the anonymous opinions of members of the bar and the judiciary. Martindale-Hubbell® Peer Review Ratings™ fall into two categories – legal ability and general ethical standards.