Business Entity Formation in Iowa — Trusted Guidance for New & Growing Businesses

Start Smart. Plan Clearly. Build With Confidence.


Choosing the right business structure—and documenting it properly—is one of the most important decisions an entrepreneur or family business can make. Whether you are forming an LLC or corporation, establishing an Operating Agreement, or seeking legal guidance before launch, clear planning protects your personal assets, defines roles, and reduces the risk of future conflict.



At Daniels Osborn Law Firm, attorney John Daniels brings more than 40 years of legal, corporate, and executive experience to Iowa business owners. You receive thoughtful, personal guidance, practical explanations, and formation documents tailored to your goals—not boilerplate templates or automated online forms.

Why Proper Business Formation Matters in Iowa


A well-structured business reduces uncertainty, protects owners from personal liability, and provides a clear framework for daily operations and long-term decision-making. Many disputes between partners, family members, or investors arise simply because the business was not formed correctly—or because essential agreements were never created.



Business formation is especially important for Iowa entrepreneurs forming an LLC or corporation, family-owned businesses with multiple owners, startups that need roles and responsibilities clarified, companies entering leases or major contracts, and owners who want to protect their personal assets from business liabilities. A strong legal foundation supports smoother operations and fewer surprises later.

LLC & Corporation Formation

We help you choose the right entity, file Articles of Organization or Incorporation, and prepare customized formation documents that align with your ownership structure, goals, and long-term plans.

New Business Startup Guidance

Support for entrepreneurs and family businesses launching new ventures, including entity selection, compliance steps, early-stage planning, and strategic conversations to avoid common pitfalls.

Operating Agreements & Initial Governance

Customized Operating Agreements, Bylaws, and Shareholder Agreements that define decision-making, financial responsibilities, ownership rights, and expectations for daily operations and future transitions.

Business Formation & Guidance Services

Each service includes a link to its own page with expanded details.

Why Clients Choose Daniels Osborn Law Firm

Clients value the firm’s thoughtful, experience-driven approach and the steady guidance John provides in every matter. With a focus on clarity, personal attention, and long-term planning, the firm offers a level of service that feels both professional and reassuring.

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More than 40 years of business and legal experience, including roles as corporate counsel and CEO
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Clear, practical explanations that make complex topics understandable
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Direct access to your attorney—every question is answered by John personally
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A steady, non-litigation approach, focused on planning, clarity, and preventing conflict
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Trusted by business owners, families, landowners, and out-of-state clients needing dependable, long-term guidance

★★★★★

Client Testimonials

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  • Super professional

    Stu E.

    Super professional
  • John took on a very complicated real estate transaction for our family.  We are in California and property is in Iowa.  From our first meeting John was excellent and personable.  He kept us informed and updated on progress all along the way, and explained things in laymans terms so they were easy to understand.  We couldn't ask for a more professional attorney to handle our real estate transaction.  We felt very comfortable with John handling everything for us...even from afar!!  5+++stars!

    Michele V.

    John took on a very complicated real estate transaction for our family. We are in California and property is in Iowa. From our first meeting John was excellent and personable. He kept us informed and updated on progress all along the way, and explained things in laymans terms so they were easy to understand. We couldn't ask for a more professional attorney to handle our real estate transaction. We felt very comfortable with John handling everything for us...even from afar!! 5+++stars!
  • John was extremely helpful settling my dad’s estate, making sure all documents were filed in court correctly, and even settling a small posthumous lawsuit.  He kept me up to date on progress of estate progression and was very approachable with any questions I had.  Very competent!

    Clayton

    John was extremely helpful settling my dad’s estate, making sure all documents were filed in court correctly, and even settling a small posthumous lawsuit. He kept me up to date on progress of estate progression and was very approachable with any questions I had. Very competent!
  • John did a great job. We were very pleased with his work. He is quick to respond if you have any questions and is very good about explaining things so that you can understand.

    John M.

    John did a great job. We were very pleased with his work. He is quick to respond if you have any questions and is very good about explaining things so that you can understand.
  • In residing outside of IA, I needed an IA attorney who would not only be able to represent me in tackling the state’s complex estate/probate and guardian/conservatorship laws but also an attorney that would be willing to do so remotely. John checked all of those boxes and much more. He’s an expert in those fields but also one of the most professional, empathetic and kind attorneys that I have worked with especially given the immediacy of circumstances/decisions that I faced. I feel very fortunate to have been referred to John and highly recommend him to others.

    Jan B.

    In residing outside of IA, I needed an IA attorney who would not only be able to represent me in tackling the state’s complex estate/probate and guardian/conservatorship laws but also an attorney that would be willing to do so remotely. John checked all of those boxes and much more. He’s an expert in those fields but also one of the most professional, empathetic and kind attorneys that I have worked with especially given the immediacy of circumstances/decisions that I faced. I feel very fortunate to have been referred to John and highly recommend him to others.
  • John Daniels has completed numerous Title Opinions for my clients in my 30 year real estate career. I highly recommend John and feel confident my clients are in the best hands. He has reviewed documents and helped solve Title issues numerous times.  I referred John to family for estate planning and they were extremely happy with his services. John helps you resolve issues and always goes above and beyond!  He has an eye for detail and is a very competent attorney!

    Vicki K.

    John Daniels has completed numerous Title Opinions for my clients in my 30 year real estate career. I highly recommend John and feel confident my clients are in the best hands. He has reviewed documents and helped solve Title issues numerous times. I referred John to family for estate planning and they were extremely happy with his services. John helps you resolve issues and always goes above and beyond! He has an eye for detail and is a very competent attorney!
  • As a real estate agent who values proficiency and timeliness, I recommend John Daniels to my clients for their title work and document preparation.  We can always count on John to do a great job, competitively priced.  He is easily available for consultation, if needed, and competently produces what is needed to complete the real estate transactions.  We very much appreciate his skill and professionalism!

    Eric B.

    As a real estate agent who values proficiency and timeliness, I recommend John Daniels to my clients for their title work and document preparation. We can always count on John to do a great job, competitively priced. He is easily available for consultation, if needed, and competently produces what is needed to complete the real estate transactions. We very much appreciate his skill and professionalism!
  • I worked with John Daniels to set up a family trust. I was impressed with his knowledge and professionalism along with his ability to very personable. John really helped put my mind at ease when explaining legal terms I didn't fully understand. He was always patient with my questions about the process and allowed me to take the time I needed to make important decisions. John always responds quickly to communication through phone calls, email or text. I highly recommend using the Daniels Osborn Law Firm.

    Julie B.

    I worked with John Daniels to set up a family trust. I was impressed with his knowledge and professionalism along with his ability to very personable. John really helped put my mind at ease when explaining legal terms I didn't fully understand. He was always patient with my questions about the process and allowed me to take the time I needed to make important decisions. John always responds quickly to communication through phone calls, email or text. I highly recommend using the Daniels Osborn Law Firm.
  • John is so personable and such a gentleman , he made me and my husband feel at ease making our wills and guiding us with his expertise and knowledge through the whole process , we now consider him a friend ,as he will make you feel the same , he assures your best interest is met  ,explains in detail in terms we both understood , we will use their services for our future matters , thanks John , respectfully Steve and Terri

    Terri C.

    John is so personable and such a gentleman , he made me and my husband feel at ease making our wills and guiding us with his expertise and knowledge through the whole process , we now consider him a friend ,as he will make you feel the same , he assures your best interest is met ,explains in detail in terms we both understood , we will use their services for our future matters , thanks John , respectfully Steve and Terri
  • John was very thorough in explaining trusts & wills, and answering my wife's & my questions. After setting up our trust, John has continued to help us with a medical power of attorney. All of his guidance has given us peace of mind, knowing we're prepared for the future.

    Tom S.

    John was very thorough in explaining trusts & wills, and answering my wife's & my questions. After setting up our trust, John has continued to help us with a medical power of attorney. All of his guidance has given us peace of mind, knowing we're prepared for the future.
  • I was going through a terrible time, I was told I  needed a Laywer for an estate. I was in my car crying asked God to help find a good Lawyer and John's name just popped out to me I called him and he answered he was on vacation still took the call. I met with in a few days later, He has helped me so much, keeps me educated every step of the way, he gets the job done, He has reasonable rates, John is not just my Lawyer he became my friend that is just the person he is, kind, caring, compassionate, and very knowledgeable. Thank You John

    Diane K.

    I was going through a terrible time, I was told I needed a Laywer for an estate. I was in my car crying asked God to help find a good Lawyer and John's name just popped out to me I called him and he answered he was on vacation still took the call. I met with in a few days later, He has helped me so much, keeps me educated every step of the way, he gets the job done, He has reasonable rates, John is not just my Lawyer he became my friend that is just the person he is, kind, caring, compassionate, and very knowledgeable. Thank You John
  • I'm very happy I was referred to go to Mr.Daniels for doing my will and everything to deal with that important process.  He was very professional and pleasant to work with . I will refer people to go to this law firm for anything they need done . Thank you Judy

    Judy H.

    I'm very happy I was referred to go to Mr.Daniels for doing my will and everything to deal with that important process. He was very professional and pleasant to work with . I will refer people to go to this law firm for anything they need done . Thank you Judy
  • John has assisted us with multiple property acquisitions as well as the formation of our LLC, and his expertise has been invaluable every step of the way. One of the acquisitions turned out to be particularly complex, requiring extensive coordination with both city and county officials. Despite the challenges, John navigated the process with skill and persistence, ultimately securing everything we expected and even more.

His professionalism, knowledge, and dedication truly set him apart. We highly recommend John for any real estate transactions—he’s someone you can trust to get the job done right.

    Sid M.

    John has assisted us with multiple property acquisitions as well as the formation of our LLC, and his expertise has been invaluable every step of the way. One of the acquisitions turned out to be particularly complex, requiring extensive coordination with both city and county officials. Despite the challenges, John navigated the process with skill and persistence, ultimately securing everything we expected and even more. His professionalism, knowledge, and dedication truly set him apart. We highly recommend John for any real estate transactions—he’s someone you can trust to get the job done right.
  • John spends time to find out exactly what you need.  Then he delivers!

    Terry M.

    John spends time to find out exactly what you need. Then he delivers!

Our Business Formation Process: Clear, Efficient, and Personal

Contact the Firm
  • Call, text, or submit a form—you’ll speak directly with attorney John Daniels.
Discuss Your Business Goals
  • We review your ownership structure, operational plans, finances, and long-term vision.
Draft & Review Documents
  • You receive tailored formation documents, governance materials, and clear explanations for every section.
Finalize & Support Your Business
  • We assist with filings, signing requirements, and ongoing legal guidance as your business evolves.

About Daniels Osborn Law Firm

The firm is led by John Daniels, a Sioux City attorney with more than four decades of experience in business law, corporate counsel, real estate, and estate planning. His background includes significant time as both corporate counsel and CEO of a regional medical center—experience that brings unique insight into business structure, organizational clarity, and long-term planning.



As a solo practitioner, John provides direct guidance without layers of staff. His philosophy—“uncommon strategies, common ground”—reflects a calm, thoughtful approach to helping business owners make confident, informed decisions.

Your Next Step: Build Your Business on a Solid Legal Foundation

A strong business begins with clarity. Whether you're forming an LLC, drafting governance documents, or planning a new venture, the right legal guidance creates confidence, reduces risk, and prevents future conflict.