Terms of Service

Last Updated: January 22, 2026

These Terms of Service ("Terms") govern your use of the Iowa Expungement website and legal services provided by Laurie Heron McCown, Attorney at Law. By using our website or engaging our services, you agree to these Terms.

1. Scope of Services

1.1 Legal Services Provided

Iowa Expungement provides legal representation for the purpose of seeking expungement of criminal records in Iowa. Our services include:

• Free eligibility assessment
• Review of court records and case files
• Preparation and filing of expungement petitions
• Service of documents on the county prosecutor
• Representation at hearings (if required)
• Obtaining final court orders

1.2 Services Not Provided

Unless specifically agreed in writing, our representation does not include:

• Appeals of denied expungement petitions
• Representation in any criminal proceedings
• Legal advice on matters unrelated to expungement
• Representation in civil matters
• Post-expungement services (e.g., credit repair, employment assistance)

2. Attorney-Client Relationship

2.1 Formation of Relationship

An attorney-client relationship is formed when you:

1. Complete our eligibility quiz and receive confirmation of eligibility
2. Accept these Terms of Service
3. Submit payment for our services
4. Sign the engagement letter electronically
5. We complete a conflicts check and accept you as a client

2.2 No Relationship Before Payment

Using our website, taking the eligibility quiz, or contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship until payment is received, an engagement letter is signed, and completion of conflict check. Information you provide before that point may not be protected by attorney-client privilege.

2.3 Conflicts of Interest

Before accepting representation, we conduct a conflicts check to ensure we can ethically represent you. No attorney-client relationship is formed until we have completed this conflicts check and confirmed we can represent you. If a conflict is discovered during our review, we will decline representation and provide a full refund. If a conflict is discovered after the attorney-client relationship has been established, we reserve the right to withdraw from representation and provide a full refund.

3. Fees and Payment

3.1 Flat Fee Structure

Most expungement cases are handled for a flat fee of $450, which includes all attorney fees, court filing fees, and costs. This fee is due in full before we begin work on your case.

3.2 Special Circumstances

Cases involving special circumstances (multiple case numbers, complex legal issues, or unusual procedural requirements) may require higher fees. Any such fees will be disclosed and agreed upon before you make payment.

3.3 Accepted Payment Methods

We accept payment via credit card, debit card, or other electronic payment methods through our secure payment processor (Stripe). Payment must be received before we begin work on your case.

3.4 Refund Policy

Full Refund: If we determine your case does not qualify for expungement after reviewing Iowa court filings, we will refund your payment in full—no questions asked.

No Refund: If you provide inaccurate information that leads to our acceptance of an ineligible case, we will not refund your payment.

No Refund After Filing: Once we have filed your petition with the court, fees are non-refundable even if the court denies your petition.

4. Client Responsibilities

4.1 Accurate Information

You agree to provide complete, accurate, and truthful information in response to all questions asked during the intake process. Providing false or misleading information may result in:

• Denial of your expungement petition
• Forfeiture of your right to a refund
• Termination of our representation
• Potential legal consequences

4.2 Timely Communication

You agree to respond promptly to our requests for information, documents, or signatures. Delays in responding may delay the processing of your case.

4.3 Court Compliance

If a hearing is scheduled, you agree to appear as required unless we have obtained permission for you to be absent. Failure to appear when required may result in denial of your petition.

5. No Guarantee of Results

Factors that may affect the outcome of your case include:

• The specific facts of your case
• Changes in Iowa law
• Objections from the county prosecutor
• The judge's discretion
• Previously undisclosed information in your record

6. Limitation of Liability

6.1 Legal Representation Only

Our liability is limited to providing competent legal representation in pursuing your expungement. We are not liable for:

• The court's decision to grant or deny your petition
• Employment, housing, or other consequences of your criminal record
• Third-party background check errors or delays
• Actions of court personnel, prosecutors, or other parties

6.2 Maximum Liability

In no event shall our total liability to you exceed the amount of fees you paid for our services.

7. Confidentiality and Privacy

7.1 Attorney-Client Privilege

All communications between you and our firm are protected by attorney-client privilege. We will not disclose your information except as required by law or with your consent.

7.2 Data Security

We use industry-standard security measures to protect your personal information. However, no method of transmission over the Internet is 100% secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security.

7.3 Third-Party Service Providers

We may use third-party service providers (payment processors, email services, document management systems) to facilitate our services. These providers are bound by confidentiality agreements.

8. Termination

8.1 Termination by Client

You may terminate our representation at any time by providing written notice. If termination occurs before we have filed your petition, you may be entitled to a partial refund based on work completed.

8.2 Termination by Attorney

We may withdraw from representation if:

• You fail to cooperate or communicate
• You provide false or misleading information
• You fail to pay agreed-upon fees
• Continued representation would violate ethical rules
• A conflict of interest arises

8.3 Effect of Termination

Upon termination, we will provide you with copies of documents in your file and return any unearned fees. You remain responsible for any fees earned before termination.

9. Website Use

9.1 Informational Purpose

Information on our website is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Do not rely on website content as a substitute for consulting with an attorney about your specific situation.

9.2 Eligibility Quiz

Our eligibility quiz provides a preliminary assessment based on the information you provide. A full review of your court records may reveal additional information affecting eligibility.

9.3 External Links

Our website may contain links to third-party websites. We are not responsible for the content, privacy policies, or practices of external sites.

10. Communication

10.1 Email and Electronic Communication

By using our services, you consent to receive communications from us via email. Email is not always secure, and we recommend not including sensitive information in initial contact emails.

10.2 Response Time

We strive to respond to client inquiries within one business day. However, response times may vary based on workload and the complexity of your question.

11. Dispute Resolution

11.1 Governing Law

These Terms are governed by the laws of the State of Iowa. Any disputes will be resolved in the courts of Polk County, Iowa.

11.2 Fee Disputes

If you have a dispute regarding fees, you may contact the Iowa State Bar Association for assistance with fee arbitration.

12. Modifications to Terms

We reserve the right to modify these Terms at any time. Changes will be posted on this page with an updated "Last Updated" date. Your continued use of our services after changes constitutes acceptance of the modified Terms.

13. Severability

If any provision of these Terms is found to be unenforceable or invalid, that provision will be limited or eliminated to the minimum extent necessary, and the remaining provisions will remain in full force and effect.

14. Entire Agreement

These Terms, together with any engagement letter you sign, constitute the entire agreement between you and Iowa Expungement regarding our services and supersede all prior agreements and understandings.

15. Contact Information

If you have questions about these Terms, please contact us:

Iowa Expungement
Laurie Heron McCown, Attorney at Law
1819 Beaver Ave.
Des Moines, IA 50310
Phone: 515-302-5316
Email: [email protected]