Practical legal guidance for business formation, contracts, transactions, disputes, and ongoing operations.
Learn moreTrusted counsel for complex matters
Trusted Counsel When the Stakes Are High.
Practical legal guidance, clear communication, and experienced representation when you need it most.
Strategic partnership
Meaningful counsel
A measured, client-first approach
Clear guidance for pivotal decisions.
Legal issues can quickly become overwhelming. Hartwell & Pierce helps individuals, families, and businesses understand their options, protect their interests, and move forward with confidence.
We focus on direct communication, practical advice, and careful planning that supports long-term objectives without unnecessary complexity.
How we can help
Practical legal support across key areas.
Thoughtful planning to help individuals and families protect assets and prepare for the future with clarity and confidence.
Learn moreGuidance involving property transactions, contracts, ownership matters, and disputes for buyers, sellers, and investors.
Learn moreStrategic representation for individuals and businesses facing complex disputes, negotiations, and litigation matters.
Learn moreCounsel for employers and professionals navigating workplace agreements, disputes, and compliance matters.
Learn moreOngoing legal guidance for organizations that need experienced counsel without maintaining a full-time internal legal department.
Learn moreWhy clients choose us
Practical support built on trust, clarity, and responsiveness.
Clear Advice
We explain your options in straightforward language so you can make informed decisions with confidence.
Responsive Communication
Clients should know where their matter stands and what comes next, without unnecessary uncertainty.
Practical Strategy
Legal strategy should support real-world objectives, not create unnecessary complexity or delay.
Personal Attention
Every matter receives thoughtful attention tailored to the client’s circumstances and goals.
Our attorneys
Experienced counsel with a measured, practical perspective.
Michael Hartwell
Managing Partner
Business Law & Litigation
Michael works with business owners and executives on transactions, disputes, and strategic planning matters that require clear judgment and practical direction.
Elizabeth Pierce
Partner
Estate Planning & Real Estate
Elizabeth advises clients on property matters, succession planning, and long-term decision-making with an emphasis on clarity, planning, and risk awareness.
Daniel Mercer
Attorney
Employment & Business Law
Daniel helps clients address workplace issues, commercial disputes, and operational questions with a practical and solutions-oriented approach.
Representative experience
Practical Experience. Focused Representation.
01
Business Transactions
Helping business owners navigate contracts, acquisitions, ownership changes, and commercial agreements with a focus on clarity and risk management.
02
Complex Disputes
Representing clients through negotiations, business disputes, and civil litigation with careful preparation and measured advocacy.
03
Estate & Succession Planning
Helping families and business owners develop thoughtful plans for assets, succession, and future decision-making with sensitivity and foresight.
Client feedback
Responsive, professional guidance clients can rely on.
They were clear, responsive, and genuinely thoughtful from the start. We felt informed throughout the process and never left guessing about next steps.
Elizabeth and her team made an overwhelming planning process feel organized and manageable. The guidance was practical and easy to understand.
We appreciated the professionalism, direct communication, and attention to detail. The firm kept us informed and focused on what mattered most.
Sample testimonials for demonstration purposes.
Let’s Talk About What Comes Next.
Tell us a little about your situation and our team will follow up to discuss how we may be able to help.
Contact
Hartwell & Pierce Law
Address
1250 Grand Avenue, Suite 400
Des Moines, IA 50309
Des Moines, IA 50309
Phone
(515) 555-0172
Office Hours
Monday-Friday
8:30 AM-5:00 PM
8:30 AM-5:00 PM
Initial inquiries
We welcome the opportunity to learn more about your situation and discuss how we may be able to help.