Estate Planning & Probate in Des Moines County, Iowa
Most Des Moines County estate questions come down to one fork: avoid probate before a death, or work through it after one. Start with your situation below; both paths use Des Moines County's actual court and recording details.
The Probate Process in Des Moines County
Probate is the court-supervised process of settling someone's estate after they die — validating the will, paying debts and taxes, and transferring what's left to the heirs. In Des Moines County, probate runs through the District Court at 513 North Main Street, Burlington. The court sits in the 8th Judicial District.
Full Des Moines Countyprobate guide: cost, how to file & attorneys →Probate Court Record
District Court
Des Moines County · 8th Judicial District
Address
Phone
Hours
Recording Deeds & Property Documents
Recording Office Record
County Recorder
Des Moines County · Natalie Steffener
Address
Phone
Hours
E-recording
$7 for the first page plus $5 for each additional page; transfer tax may need separate review.
Full recording details →Verified September 4, 2026 · Source
Local Procedures at the District Court
Per Iowa Court Rule 16.411, when filing original documents (including wills) electronically via EDMS, the filer must scan and upload the document, then retain the original for at least 2 years or until conclusion of the case, appeal, or estate (whichever is later). The original must be delivered to the court immediately upon request. Exception: Wills in safekeeping may still be submitted in paper form.
Iowa Estate Planning Articles
Articles about estate planning, probate, and trusts relevant to families in Des Moines County.
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