Our Process

A simple, transparent, stress-free path to clearing your Iowa criminal record. We've streamlined every step so you know exactly what to expect.

How We Work

We've perfected a systematic approach that combines legal expertise with efficient processes. From your first click to your sealed record, we handle everything professionally and promptly.

Your Journey to a Clear Record

1

Take Our Free Eligibility Quiz

Answer a few simple questions about your Iowa criminal record. Our intelligent quiz instantly analyzes your case type, dates, and circumstances to determine if you qualify for expungement. Takes less than 2 minutes and gives you immediate results.

Timeline: Instant results • No cost • No obligation
2

Get Your Honest Assessment

Based on your quiz results, we'll tell you exactly what we can do for you. If you qualify, we'll explain the process, timeline, and cost. If you don't qualify, we'll tell you that too—we never take money for cases we can't help with.

Timeline: Same day for most cases
3

Review & Decide

You'll receive clear information about our flat-fee pricing, what's included, and what to expect. Take your time to review everything. If you're ready to proceed, we make it easy to get started with secure online payment.

Timeline: No pressure—you decide when you're ready
4

We Gather Your Records

Our team obtains certified copies of your court records directly from the county when needed. We verify all case details, conviction dates, and disposition information to ensure everything is accurate before filing.

Timeline: 1-2 weeks depending on county response time
5

We Prepare Your Petition

Attorney Laurie Heron McCown personally reviews your case and prepares all legal documents. We draft the expungement petition, supporting affidavit, and proposed order with precision and attention to detail. Every filing meets Iowa court requirements.

Timeline: 3-5 business days after receiving records
6

We File with the Court

We electronically file your petition with the Iowa court in the county where your case originated. All filing fees are included in your flat fee. We handle service on the prosecutor's office and ensure all procedural requirements are met.

Timeline: Filed within 1-2 business days of completion
7

We Monitor Your Case

We track your case status and respond to any court inquiries. If the prosecutor objects or the court schedules a hearing, we handle it. If a hearing is needed, our attorney appears on your behalf—you typically don't need to attend.

Timeline: Most cases: 30-60 days • Complex cases: 60-90 days
8

Your Record is Sealed

Once the court grants your expungement, we obtain the signed order and send you a copy. The court notifies law enforcement and updates Iowa Courts Online. Your record is now sealed from public view.

Timeline: Court updates typically process within 2-4 weeks of the order
9

Move Forward with Confidence

You can legally answer "no" when asked about criminal convictions on job applications and housing forms. Your sealed record won't appear on standard background checks. We provide documentation you can keep for your records.

Your fresh start begins

What Makes Our Process Different

Most Law Firms

  • Require in-person consultations
  • Hourly billing with unclear costs
  • Slow response times
  • Generic legal documents
  • You track your own case status

Our Streamlined Approach

  • Everything done online—no office visit needed
  • Transparent flat-fee pricing upfront
  • Same-day email responses
  • Documents tailored to your specific case
  • We proactively update you at each step

Everything Included in Your Flat Fee

  • Free Eligibility Assessment: Comprehensive review of your case to determine qualification
  • Record Retrieval: We obtain certified court records from the county when needed
  • Attorney Document Preparation: Professionally drafted petition, affidavit, and order
  • Court Filing & Service: Electronic filing with the court and service on the prosecutor
  • All Court Fees: Filing fees and administrative costs included (no surprises)
  • Case Monitoring: We track status and handle any court communication
  • Hearing Representation: If needed, our attorney appears on your behalf
  • Final Order Delivery: Certified copy of the signed expungement order
  • Unlimited Email Support: Questions answered throughout the process
  • Status Updates: Proactive communication at each milestone

One Price. Everything Included.

Most cases are completed for our flat fee of $450, which includes all attorney time, court fees, and costs. No hourly billing. No hidden fees. No surprises.

Typical Timeline

While every case is different, here's what most clients can expect

Week 1-2: Record Gathering

We request and receive your certified court records from the county when needed.

Week 2-3: Document Preparation & Filing

Attorney reviews case, prepares documents, and files with the court.

Week 4-12: Court Processing

Court reviews petition, prosecutor has opportunity to respond, judge makes decision. Most cases are approved without a hearing in 30-90 days.

Final Weeks: Record Sealing

Court processes the order and updates Iowa Courts Online database.

Fast-Track Cases: Simple expungements like public intoxication or dismissed charges often process faster—sometimes in as little as 2-4 weeks if the court has low volume.

We Keep You Informed

You'll never wonder what's happening with your case

📧 Regular Updates

We proactively email you when we complete each major milestone: records received, petition filed, hearing scheduled (if needed), and order granted.

💬 Quick Response Times

Email us anytime with questions. We typically respond the same business day, often within hours.

📱 Case Status Access

You can check your case status online through Iowa Courts Online after we file. We'll show you how.

🤝 Personal Attention

You're working with a real legal team who knows your case—not a call center or faceless corporation.

Ready to Get Started?

Take the first step with our free 2-minute eligibility quiz

Check Your Eligibility Free →

✓ Instant results • ✓ No cost • ✓ No obligation

Questions About the Process?

We're here to help. Schedule a free consultation to discuss your specific situation.

📞 Call 515-302-5316 Schedule Consultation