Fitzgerald, Klesner, & Pavelich, PLC

Call For Your Initial Consultation
319-320-4569

Fitzgerald, Klesner, & Pavelich, PLC

319-320-4569

Protecting Your Rights And Your Future

Iowa City Juvenile Court Lawyers

Juvenile court cases often arise during times of uncertainty. These matters may involve child in need of assistance (CINA) proceedings, minor guardianships or termination of parental rights. Each situation can affect a child’s safety, care and long-term well-being.

Our lawyers at Fitzgerald, Klesner, & Pavelich, PLC, provide juvenile court legal representation grounded in compassion, legal precision and more than 70 years of combined experience. We have served our fellow Iowans for decades and remain a trusted legal resource for life.

Trusted Guidance From Experienced Attorneys

Our attorneys at Fitzgerald, Klesner, & Pavelich, PLC, work to find collaborative solutions that benefit families and resolve complex legal problems. Attorney Joe Pavelich leads our family law practice and represents clients in juvenile court proceedings throughout Johnson County. He works directly with parents, guardians and extended family members to protect children and preserve family stability. Learn more about Joe.

What Cases Does Juvenile Court Handle In Iowa City?

The juvenile court in Iowa City hears a variety of cases involving minors, including:

  • CINA petitions. The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHS) often initiates these investigations due to concerns about abuse, neglect or unsafe living conditions. The county attorney may then file a court petition to initiate proceedings. In CINA cases, the court decides what services or changes will keep a child safe.
  • Termination of parental rights. The court considers termination of parental rights when reunification is no longer possible and permanent placement is needed. Termination can also be requested by the child’s other parent or by a guardian.
  • Minor guardianships. Guardianships of minors are critical as they determine who should take legal responsibility for a child when the parents cannot.

Juvenile delinquency cases also appear in this court and fall under our juvenile criminal defense practice. Each case calls for a defense tailored to the child’s needs and the family’s goals.

Protect Your Child. Work With A Trusted Iowa City Juvenile Court Attorney.

Juvenile court cases carry high stakes and can shape a child’s future. Our lawyers offer sensitive, informed guidance to help families respond to DHS involvement, prepare for hearings and advocate for the child’s best interests. Early legal support can make a critical difference. Please call our office at 319-320-4569 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a consultation with one of our Iowa City juvenile court lawyers today.

Practice Areas

Notable Cases

Cedar County AGCR024516 — PLEA OFFER ACCEPTED — Attorney Shawn Fitzgerald’s client was accused of the crime of Operating a Motor Vehicle While License is Barred as a Habitual Offender §321.560/ §321.561/ §321.555 /§321.556 (An Aggravated Misdemeanor), as well as Failure to Use Child Restraint Devise §321.446 (A Scheduled Violation). Attorney Shawn Fitzgerald was able to secure a plea offer satisfactory to both client and state.

Notable Cases

Muscatine County AGCR057733 — PLEA ACCEPTED, CHARGE REDUCED — Attorney Shawn Fitzgerald’s client was accused of Domestic Abuse Assault §708.2A(2)(b) (A Serious Misdemeanor). An initial plea offer stated the client would have to plead guilty as charged, attorney Shawn Fitzgerald worked for a better offer for his client. The client was able to plead guilty to an amended lesser charge of Disorderly Conduct §723.4(2) (A Simple Misdemeanor).