Best Private Equity Lawyers in Des Moines

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Finley Law
Des Moines, United States

Founded in 2011
23 people in their team
English
Our FirmDecades of successful representation and counseling.We pride ourselves on our long-standing and enduring connection to Iowa’s business and health care communities.Our practice involves all aspects of representation and counseling. Several of our lawyers specialize in defending...
Dickinson, Mackaman, Tyler & Hagen, P.C.
Des Moines, United States

Founded in 1936
55 people in their team
English
Dickinson, Mackaman, Tyler & Hagen, P.C. is a general practice law firm in Des Moines, Iowa. Our attorneys provide a full range of legal and business counseling services to a client base that includes large corporations, small businesses, governmental entities, and not-for-profit organizations...

Founded in 1927
11 people in their team
English
Proudly celebrating over 90 years serving our clients and the communityIn 1927, Gregory Brunk and Peter Janss formed our present firm. Mr. Brunk served as the senior partner in the firm until his death in 1965. Over the course of his 38 year tenure he ably guided our firm through the Great...
Ahlers & Cooney, P.C.
Des Moines, United States

Founded in 1888
200 people in their team
English
BUILDING STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPSFor over 130 years, Ahlers & Cooney has represented municipalities, educational institutions, and private entities.WHAT WE DOBy providing comprehensive legal services to businesses, educational institutions and municipalities, our attorneys are focused on building...
NYEMASTER GOODE, P.C.
Des Moines, United States

Founded in 1918
150 people in their team
English
Focused on client goals, Nyemaster Goode continues to provide OUTSTANDING LEGAL SERVICE across broad and diverse practice areas.OUR PRACTICEWith offices in Des Moines, Ames, and Cedar Rapids, Nyemaster Goode’s broadly diverse practice offers solutions to the most challenging legal issues in...
Dorsey & Whitney LLP
Des Moines, United States

Founded in 1912
1,390 people in their team
English
worldwide advantageYOUR BUSINESS REQUIRES AN ADVANTAGE, AN EDGE, TO SUCCEED IN A HIGHLY COMPETITIVE WORLD.Dorsey’s lawyers and staff can help you gain that edge by applying superb legal knowledge and skills with practical wisdom and a deep understanding of your business and industry.We serve...
Gordon Rees Scully Mansukhani, LLP.
Des Moines, United States

Founded in 1974
1,688 people in their team
English
As the only law firm with offices and attorneys in all 50 states, we deliver maximum value to our clients by combining the resources of a full-service national firm with the local knowledge of a regional firm. Featuring more than 1,000 lawyers nationwide, we provide comprehensive litigation and...
MVP Law
Des Moines, United States

Founded in 1901
164 people in their team
English
Founded in 1901, MVP Law is never concerned with how others do it; we forge our own path to always meet our client’s needs. Experts in public and private sector workers’ compensation, general liability, and employment and education law, our attorneys are attentive, knowledgeable and ready to...
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About Private Equity Law in Des Moines, United States

Private equity (PE) plays a significant role in the economy of Des Moines, Iowa. It involves investments in privately held companies, usually through funds raised from institutional and accredited investors. Private equity transactions range from leveraging buyouts and venture capital investments to growth capital and turnaround situations. In Des Moines, the private equity field intersects heavily with local industries such as agriculture, insurance, technology, and financial services. Navigating these transactions requires understanding not just general business law, but also the specific regulatory, corporate, and tax concerns that impact private investments in the state of Iowa.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

The complexities of private equity deals in Des Moines go well beyond routine business matters. You may require legal help in the following common scenarios:

  • Negotiating and drafting investment agreements
  • Conducting due diligence on potential investments or acquisition targets
  • Structuring investments to comply with Iowa and federal regulations
  • Managing partnership, shareholder, or operating agreements
  • Navigating tax implications and incentives specific to Iowa
  • Resolving conflicts or disputes between investors, partners, or portfolio companies
  • Ensuring regulatory compliance with the Iowa Securities Act or reporting requirements
  • Guiding exit strategies, such as selling a business or taking a company public
  • Assisting with fund formation and capital raising under local and federal law
  • Handling employment and management compensation agreements

A specialized attorney can help protect your interests and maximize the value of the deal by providing tailored legal guidance through each stage of the investment process.

Local Laws Overview

Des Moines, as the capital of Iowa, is subject to state laws and regulations that impact private equity activity. Some key aspects of local law that are particularly relevant include:

  • Iowa Securities Act - This governs the offering and sale of securities and includes registration and exemption requirements that both funds and companies must navigate.
  • State Corporate Laws - Iowa's corporate statute (Iowa Business Corporation Act) affects how deals are structured, including mergers, acquisitions, and key governance provisions.
  • Tax Considerations - Iowa has its own tax regime for businesses, capital gains, and other relevant matters. Unique incentives, credits, and compliance requirements can affect fund and portfolio company structures.
  • Employment and Labor Law - Local employment regulations, including those governing non-competes, employee classification, and executive compensation, often come into play in private equity transactions.
  • Regulatory Filing and Reporting - State-level requirements for filings, notices, and annual reports need to be addressed for both funds and businesses acquired.

Given these local legal considerations, experienced counsel is essential for compliance and for structuring deals effectively in Des Moines.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is private equity?

Private equity refers to investment in private companies or buyouts of public companies that result in their delisting from stock exchanges. Investors often aim to improve business performance and ultimately sell or take the company public for a profit.

How is private equity regulated in Iowa?

Private equity is regulated through both federal laws and the Iowa Securities Act, which imposes state-level registration or exemption requirements on the sale of securities and fundraising activities.

Do I need to register a private equity fund in Iowa?

Depending on how the fund raises capital and which investors are involved, a PE fund may need to register or apply for exemptions under the Iowa Securities Act. Legal guidance is crucial for compliance.

What is due diligence in a private equity transaction?

Due diligence involves a comprehensive review of a target company's financials, operations, legal standing, and risks before finalizing an investment or acquisition. Lawyers help identify and address potential issues.

Are there specific taxes on private equity gains in Iowa?

Iowa taxes capital gains and business income, which can apply to proceeds from private equity transactions. Certain incentives or credits may be available, but specific tax outcomes depend on each deal's structure.

What role does a lawyer play during a PE transaction?

A lawyer structures and negotiates deals, ensures regulatory compliance, manages contracts and agreements, and guides dispute resolution or exit strategies throughout the investment process.

Can out-of-state investors participate in private equity deals in Des Moines?

Yes, but both federal and Iowa state laws will govern any fundraising, ownership, or transaction activities involving Iowa-based companies or investors.

What are common risks in private equity deals?

Risks include regulatory noncompliance, poor due diligence, valuation errors, tax complications, disputes among partners, and unforeseen liabilities within target companies.

How long does a private equity deal usually take in Des Moines?

The timeline varies but often ranges from several months to over a year, depending on deal complexity, due diligence, regulatory reviews, and negotiations.

Where can I find private equity lawyers in Des Moines?

Private equity legal services are available at business law firms throughout Des Moines. Many firms specialize or have dedicated teams for private equity and M&A matters specific to Iowa’s industries.

Additional Resources

If you need more information or assistance, the following organizations and resources can prove valuable:

  • Iowa State Bar Association - Offers resources and referrals for finding qualified business and private equity lawyers in Des Moines
  • Iowa Securities Bureau - Regulates securities offerings and maintains guidance for compliance with the Iowa Securities Act
  • Iowa Economic Development Authority - Provides information on tax programs, credits, and incentives for investors and businesses
  • U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) - Issues relevant federal regulations for private equity, including fundraising rules
  • Local Chambers of Commerce - Connects investors, entrepreneurs, and legal professionals in the Des Moines area

Next Steps

If you are considering a private equity investment or transaction in Des Moines, your first step should be to consult a qualified lawyer with experience in private equity and Iowa business law. Collect any documents relevant to your investment, outline your goals, and prepare questions in advance. During your consultation, discuss the structure of your deal, compliance requirements, and potential legal pitfalls. A local attorney can tailor strategies to your needs and help you achieve a successful and compliant outcome for your private equity venture in Des Moines.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Des Moines through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Private Equity, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Des Moines, United States - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.