Youth Law Center - Des Moines, IA

Championing the Rights of Children

Children in the legal system need a powerful voice. The Youth Law Center is a non-profit Law Firm located in Des Moines, Iowa that has been dedicated to protecting the rights of youth since 1977. Unlike private practice firms, this organization focuses exclusively on representing children and young people involved in the juvenile court system. Whether a child is facing delinquency charges requiring a Criminal Defense Lawyer or is involved in a Child in Need of Assistance (CINA) case due to abuse or neglect, the Youth Law Center provides specialized, holistic representation. If you need to find a lawyer who understands the unique developmental and legal needs of minors, the Youth Law Center is the premier advocate in Central Iowa.

Multi-Disciplinary Legal Advocacy

The Youth Law Center utilizes a unique model that pairs attorneys with social workers to ensure every aspect of a child's well-being is addressed. They serve as Child Custody Lawyers in the sense of advocating for children in state custody and foster care proceedings. Their team handles Adoption matters for children exiting the foster system and provides Domestic Violence advocacy for child victims. Additionally, they represent youth in Juvenile Justice matters, ensuring that young people accused of crimes receive fair treatment and rehabilitation opportunities rather than just punishment. Their ”Guardian ad Litem” services are critical for giving children a say in their own futures.

A Community Resource for Youth

The Youth Law Center is more than just a law office; it is a safety net for the community's most vulnerable. They offer a free legal advice hotline for youth and professionals, ensuring that guidance is accessible to those who cannot afford it. The firm also works on policy advocacy to improve the laws affecting children across the state. Whether dealing with emancipation, school issues, or mental health committals, their team is trained to handle the most sensitive situations with compassion. If you urgently need a lawyer for a juvenile matter, the Youth Law Center provides expert counsel rooted in decades of experience.

• Juvenile Defense: Representation for youth facing delinquency charges.
• Child Welfare: Advocacy for children in foster care and CINA cases.
• Adoption: Helping children find permanent, loving homes.
• Holistic Defense: Lawyers and social workers working together.
• Policy Advocacy: Fighting for systemic change to benefit all children.

Located in the historic Des Moines Building on Walnut Street, the center is situated in the heart of the downtown legal district. Contact the Youth Law Center to learn more about their vital work.