About David

David J. Hellstern is a shareholder at Sullivan & Ward, P.C., a prominent law firm situated in West Des Moines, Iowa. Practicing law since 2005, he has developed a robust focus on various areas, including business and corporate law, construction law, estate planning, probate, and real estate law. His comprehensive legal expertise has made him a valuable resource for clients navigating complex legal fields. Born and raised on a farm outside Mechanicsville, Iowa, Mr. Hellstern has deep roots in the state. He earned his Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Iowa in 2000, laying a solid foundation for his legal career.

Following his undergraduate studies, he obtained his Juris Doctorate from Drake University Law School in 2004. This educational background gave him the necessary skills to address the diverse legal needs of his clients effectively. At Sullivan & Ward, P.C., located at 6601 Westown Parkway, Suite 200, West Des Moines, IA 50266-7733, Mr. Hellstern assists clients with many legal matters. His business law practice encompasses guiding Iowa businesses from their formation to their eventual sale. He adeptly handles contracts and represents clients in litigation, particularly in disputes involving local eating and drinking establishments and construction companies. His hands-on experience in these industries allows him to provide tailored legal solutions that meet the challenges faced by his clients.

In the realm of construction law, Mr. Hellstern aids contractors and clients with various issues, including contract negotiations, disputes over project delays, workmanship concerns, material defects, and environmental issues. His real estate practice is equally comprehensive, involving assistance to clients in the purchase or sale of both commercial and residential properties. He is skilled in drafting purchase agreements, providing title opinions, and conducting closings, ensuring that all transactions proceed smoothly and legally. Beyond his primary practice areas, Mr. Hellstern also offers services in family law, addressing issues such as divorce, child custody, paternity, and adoption cases in Iowa. He provides legal advice on creating or modifying wills and trusts and represents estates through Iowa probate proceedings.

His commitment to his clients is evident in his active membership in the Polk County, Iowa State, and American Bar Associations. Licensed to practice in the State of Iowa, the Northern and Southern Federal Districts of Iowa. The Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals, Mr. Hellstern is well-prepared to advocate for his clients in various legal contexts. In addition to his legal practice, Mr. Hellstern is involved in the community, serving on the boards of the Clive Chamber of Commerce and the Des Moines Historical Society. He has presented on crucial topics such as "Legal Aspects of Closely Held Businesses," "Problems During the Construction Process," "Purchasing and Selling a Small Business in Iowa," and "Business Succession Planning in Iowa." His diverse experience and practical approach provide clients with well-rounded solutions tailored to their needs, making him a trusted advisor in the legal field.

Education

University of Iowa

Drake University Law School

Accepted Jurisdictions

Iowa

Court Admissions

U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Iowa U.S. District Court · Admitted 2005
U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Iowa U.S. District Court · Admitted 2005
U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit U.S. Circuit Court · Admitted 2005

Types of Cases Handled

Business and Corporate Law Construction Law Estate Planning Probate Real Estate Law

Legal Services Scope

Formation Contracts Litigation Divorce Child Custody Paternity Adoption Wills Trusts Probate

Office Locations

Main Office

 6601 Westown Parkway, Suite 200 West Des Moines IA 50266-7733

Sources

Information is based on available sources as of February 21, 2026. For the most current information, please consult official records or contact the attorney directly.