State Years

Wisconsin - WI 2 years

Iowa - IA 24 years
Licensed for 2 years

State WI

Acquired 2021

Status
Good Standing
Licensed for 24 years

State IA

Acquired 1999

Status
Active Lawyer disciplined by state licensing authority in 2012

Christopher Coppola

Family Attorney at West Des Moines, IA

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Cost
Resume

Fantastic lawyer!

The Best

About Christopher

Learn Christopher’s areas of practice.

Practice areas

Family

25%
Personal injury

20%

25 years
Animal and dog bites

5%
Car accident

5%
Child custody

5%

25 years
Child support

5%
Divorce and separation

5%

25 years
Medical malpractice

5%
Motorcycle accident

5%
Slip and fall accident

5%
Trucking accident

5%
Uncontested divorce

5%
Workers compensation

5%

Work place injury

LICENSED IN BOTH IOWA AND WISCONSIN. EXPERIENCED TRIAL ATTORNEY - PERSONAL INJURY, WORKERS COMPENSATION, DIVORCE, AND CHILD CUSTODY ATTORNEY. CALL (515) 414-8518

I, Christopher B. Coppola, have been practicing law since 1999. I am licensed to practice in law in Iowa and in Wisconsin.

“My goal is to achieve the best results for my clients. I treat all of my clients like I would want to be treated. That means being honest, accessible, and working hard to achieve the desired results.”

Chris is a highly experienced and accomplished trial attorney with over 22 years of experience. His knowledge of legal issues and areas of practice is extensive. His main focus is as a trial attorney. That includes divorce, child custody, personal injury, workers compensation, and general litigation. Chris has had successful jury and non-jury verdicts in numerous areas of the law, including but not limited to, divorce, child custody, personal injury, wrongful death, workers compensation, criminal law, business and real estate suits. Serving the State of Iowa, Central Iowa, Des Moines, West Des Moines and the Western Suburbs.

Family Law Lawyer, Divorce, Child Custody - West Des Moines Attorney

“Compassion, understanding, and honesty. I understand the trust that clients place in their lawyers in dealing with their children, finances and other emotional issues. I pledge to be honest with my clients. It is imperative to have an attorney who is willing to “go to the mat” for their clients. It is also imperative to have an attorney who is mindful of the emotional and financial toll that exists for families going through a family law case. I strive to find solutions for families, but in the event the parties have to go to a trial, I do what it takes to achieve the desired results.”

Chris Coppola Successfully modified physical custody for client who desired to move to different state. Client and her children were awarded primary physical care. This was appealed and affirmed by Court of Appeals. West Des Moines Divorce, Child Custody, Family Law Lawyer / Attorney - Serving State of Iowa, Central Iowa, Des Moines, West Des Moines

Personal Injury Attorney - Car Accidents, Truck Accidents, Negligence Lawsuits - West Des Moines, Iowa Lawyer

“I am devoted to helping persons who have suffered from serious injuries. I work on each case personally. Almost all of my cases are referrals and are not from advertising on television, billboards or buses. I have recovered millions in settlements and trial verdicts for injured clients.”

Results: Chris Coppola obtained $1,500,000 .00 for injured client in an motor vehicle accident.

Chris Coppola obtained jury verdict of $540,000 for injured client who was t-boned at intersection.

Chris Coppola obtained $350,000 for injured client who was rear ended and who suffered soft tissue injuries.

Chris Coppola obtained $250,000 for injured client in a rear end motor vehicle accident who suffered neck pain and migraine headaches.

Chris Coppola obtained $200, for injured client in a Medical Negligence case involving surgical mesh / product liability.

Chris Coppola obtained $140,000 for injured client who was rear ended and who suffered whiplash and other soft tissue injuries.

Chris Coppola obtained $130,000 for injured client was was t-boned in school parking lot and suffered whiplash and TMJ.

Chris Coppola obtained $120,000 for injured client who was t-boned at intersection who suffered neck and foot injury.

Chris Coppola obtained $100,000 for injured client who was rear ended at intersection with neck injury.

Chris Coppola obtained $100,000 for injured client who slipped on the ice in a restaurant parking lot who broke her ankle.

These are just a few of personal injury results in the last few years. There are many others not listed.

West Des Moines Personal Injury and Motor Vehicle Accident, Car Accident, Wrongful death Lawyer / Attorney - Serving State of Iowa, Central Iowa, Des Moines, West Des Moines

Workers Compensation Attorney in West Des Moines, Iowa - Lawyer

“I pledge to all of my clients that I will do everything I can to help those injured while working navigate their way through the workers compensation system. Litigating a worker’s compensation case involved taking on large insurance companies and large employers. It can be fierce and I am eager for that challenge. I have recovered millions in settlements and arbitration decisions for my injured clients.”

Results: Chris Coppola obtained $400,000 .00 lump sum for injured client with back injury from lifting box at work.

Chris Coppola obtained $350,000 for injured client who was rear ended and who suffered soft tissue injuries.

Chris Coppola received arbitration ruling granting client 80% industrial disability - 400 weeks of benefits. Settled claim after award for $230,000 lump sum payment. Client had injured shoulders at work.

Chris Coppola obtained $240,000 lump sum for injured worker who was injured while working and suffered injuries to his knee and whole body.

Chris Coppola obtained $220,000 lump sum for injured worker who was injured while working and suffered injuries to his knee and whole body.

Chris Coppola obtained $215,000 lump sum for injured worker with arm injury from falling off ladder at work.

Chris Coppola obtained $185,000 for injured client who was injured in the line of duty serving as law enforcement.

Chris Coppola obtained $160,000 for injured worker who was injured when a piece of equipment fell on his nose and injured his neck.

Chris Coppola obtained $150,000 for injured client who was injured in the line of duty serving as law enforcement.

Chris Coppola obtained $138,000 lump sum for injured worker with arm injury from working at meat plant.

These are just a few of the workers compensation results in the last few years. There are many others not listed.

West Des Moines Workers Compensation Injured Worker Lawyer / Attorney - Serving State of Iowa, Central Iowa, Des Moines, West Des Moines

Chris grew up in West Des Moines, Iowa and has had success and accomplishments throughout his life. He was an Iowa High School State Wrestling Champion from Dowling Catholic in West Des Moines Iowa. He wrestled for Drake University, a Division 1 Nationally Ranked Program and was named the team’s Outstanding Newcomer. He was inducted into the Dowling Catholic Athletic Hall of Fame, which is a prestigious High School Hall of Fame.

After graduating from University of Iowa, he followed in his father’s footsteps and attended Drake University Law School where he graduated in 2 years. Chris has been a leader in the Coppola law firm since joining the firm in 1998. He achieved partner status in his second year of practicing law.

Chris is a member and/or practices in the Iowa Bar Association; Iowa Supreme Court; Iowa Court of Appeals; the Northern and Southern United States District Federal Courts. Chris practices law throughout the State of Iowa and has litigated cases in the Miami, Florida, Las Vegas, Nevada and other Midwestern states.

Chris practices in several areas, including, but not limited to serving clients in Des Moines and West Des Moines, Central Iowa and the State of Iowa:

Motor vehicle accidents Attorney West Des Moines Iowa Lawyer
Car Accidents Attorney West Des Moines Iowa Lawyer
Truck Accidents Attorney West Des Moines Iowa Lawyer
Traumatic brain injury Attorney West Des Moines Iowa Lawyer
Workers Compensation Attorney West Des Moines Iowa Lawyer
Whole Body Injury Attorney West Des Moines Iowa Lawyer
Family Law Attorney West Des Moines Iowa Lawyer
Divorce Attorney West Des Moines Iowa Lawyer
Collaborative Divorce Attorney West Des Moines Iowa Lawyer
Child Custody Attorney West Des Moines Lawyer
Pre-Nuptial Agreements
Alimony Attorney West Des Moines Iowa Lawyer
Mediation

Photos and videos

Contact Christopher

Coppola Hockenberg, P.C.

(515) 414-8518 Office

(515) 453-1059 Fax

(515) 414-8518 Mobile

2100 Westown Pkwy Ste 210

West Des Moines, IA, 50265

wdmlawyers.com/attorneys/christopher-b-coppola

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Reviews

Write A Review

5.0 / 5.0

79 customer reviews

5 Star

99%

4 Star

3 Star

2 Star

1 Star

Posted by anonymous | October 24, 2023

Fantastic lawyer!

Chris helped resolve my issue quickly and favorably. Very thorough and professional.

Posted by Ben | October 9, 2023

The Best

Chris is the best family law lawyer in Des Moines. He has been very helpful to me in some of my worst times.

Posted by Jamie | September 29, 2023

Very knowledgeable

Chris is very knowledgeable and great to work! Highly suggest him for accident related issues!

Posted by Tricia | November 22, 2023

Worth every penny

In December of 2020, I was hired after posting my resume for a warehouse job. During the pandemic I had lost my previous job February 14, 2020. I was so grateful to land a job, any job, while the pandemic was still raging. Fast Forward 6 months later, June 6,2021, when I suffered a debilitating work injury. Workers' Comp process was very slow, by the time I was finally deemed ready for ACDF surgery it was 10+ months after my initial work injury. After the surgery healing period, I continued to have numbness in my left upper extremity, forearm, thumb and index finger. The surgeon gave me a 25% PPD rating at my last post-surgery follow up visit 6 months later. A month after surgery I hired Chris Coppola as my work comp attorney. I had heard good things about Chris from my long time friend who's mother needed legal help 25 years ago. Chris took on her case and won. If you've been through a challenging journey, facing both a work injury and the complexities of the Workers' Comp process; having a supportive legal team, especially with positive recommendations, can make a significant difference in navigating such situations. I was so relieved to have the guidance, experience and expertise of Chris and Sarah on my side during this entire difficult ordeal. Thank you.

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Posted by anonymous | November 21, 2023

Thorough, compassionate, and a tough go-getter

He advised me on both a personal and legal level. I never felt like a number and always felt comfortable in his ability to represent me successfully. He cares and is vested in his clients and takes pride in his work. Worth every penny.

Posted by Brody | November 21, 2023

Personal Trainer

I hired Chris for my divorce. He truly cared for my overall health and helped me the most difficult time of my life. I can’t thank him enough for everything he did for me.

Posted by anonymous | November 10, 2023

Hands down best attorney in Des Moines

I was referred to Chris from a family friend. He and his team were so understanding and accommodating. Everything was completed in a timely and professional manner, my custody case was rather complicated and Chris did everything in his power to win our case. The final verdict was even better than we could have hoped! Thank you to Chris and his team, i will be referring him to everyone i know who needs a trustworthy family lawyer.

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Posted by Allyn Schneider | November 10, 2023

Chris is the best!

I can’t even explain how thankful I am for Chris. He truly cares and you can tell. He is the only lawyer I would ever reach out to! Thanks Chris!!

Posted by Angela | November 2, 2023

Bold, prompt and professional

Chris is a phenomenal attorney! He is not afraid to speak his mind, even when that means going against “Goliath.” Chris explains things, and does everything in his power to get good results for his clients. Very professional and intelligent attorney!

Posted by Robert | November 1, 2023

I Highly Recommend Mr. Coppola!

Mr. Coppola was recommended to me by a local lawyer whom I trust. The divorce process isn't easy for any party but Chris was understanding and he knew my goals and helped me to quickly finalize the divorce in mediation instead of going to court. My ex and I came to an agreement in lieu of alimony and I ended up paying her 6% of her initial ask amount. The best part is this was all settled within a few months instead of being dragged out for years like many divorces do. Chris could have easily gone to court for me and made more money, but instead he helped me achieve my goal to have closure quickly which saved me money in the long run in court costs, lawyer fees, and alimony. You may think that his services are expensive but you get what you pay for and the end result is what should be focused on. Chris is worth hiring as he states the facts and has great arguments for your side. Thank you, Chris!

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Posted by Jason | October 24, 2023

Child custody case

Chris really helped me out when I was in a bind. I hired him for my child custody case, and I’m very pleased with the outcome. He’s very professional and responds quickly and answer any questions that you might have. I highly recommend him as a lawyer.

Posted by Justin | October 6, 2023

Else case

My name is Justin Else. I hired Chris to help me gain custody in a difficult case. Very unique and hard navigate case and Chris made it as simple as he could and kept us on track to win after a year long search for my child.

Posted by Che | September 26, 2023

Great lawyer

I have used Christopher on a couple of family court issues. He is prompt, through and a great communicator. I have been very satisfied with the outcomes of my cases. I highly recommend Chris, he’ll work diligently for you.

Posted by anonymous | September 19, 2023

Compassionate, Knowledgeable and always Professional

Chris is an amazing and knowledgeable attorney who is willing to fight for children's rights and to make sure that their voices are heard. Chris is working so hard for my child, ensuring that she and other children are not revictimized through the court system. He is compassionate and listens to you with empathy yet is not afraid to give you his opinion on what would be best for your case. Chris goes to great lengths to understand what your family is dealing with. His professionalism in the court room is admirable and I feel that he always has our best interests at heart.

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Posted by Don | August 28, 2023

Amazing expertise

Couldn’t be happier with how Chris handled my case. Fast acting and great communication.

Posted by Valerie | June 23, 2023

Highly recommend

I have worked with Chris on several occasions. He is my families go to attorney. He and his team are extremely knowledgeable and helpful. Even when dealing with a very difficult situation, he made it very bearable. If you are looking for an exceptional attorney, I highly recommend Chris Coppola.

Posted by Michael | June 13, 2023

Miracle worker!

Chris is one of the most down to earth and knowledgeable lawyers I’ve ever met. In the past he helped me get a more than favorable outcome in a custody case and of recent he helped get the best possible outcome with a criminal case I unfortunately had come up. You will not find a more attentive, knowledgeable ,honest, and hard working lawyer that not only will advise you in a timely and knowledgeable manner but will also talk to you as a person and look out for your overall well-being in a hard time in your life. BEST LAWYER IN THE DSM METRO!

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Posted by Justin | February 20, 2023

Great Lawyer

Chris has been vital to my custody case. He knows what is right and isn't afraid to stand up for that and for his clients. He is a seasoned veteran of the profession and I highly recommend him.

Posted by anonymous | February 6, 2023

Great Lawyer

Chris fought hard for my case. Even got a little more compensation to help me cover the bills and unseen damage. They listened and helped me I highly recommend! Thank you Chris and Sarah.

Posted by Dawn | December 15, 2022

Smart and hard-working

Mr. Coppola worked hard for us. He was good at explaining the law and our options. We are satisfied with the settlement he achieved.

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Cost

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Professional misconduct

This lawyer was disciplined by a state licensing authority in 2012.

Reprimand issued in IA, 2012
updated on 08/01/2014

This means the attorney did something wrong, but the Bar did not suspend the lawyer. Typically in this case the lawyer's poor behavior is exposed to the public in hopes that he or she will not repeat the behavior.

Christopher's comment: “I did not know where my client resided. As a result, we were unable to send my client an invoice. I voluntarily accepted a public reprimand. My fees were deemed earned and reasonable. The client who filed the complaint was facing 9 years in prison. I got her probation. She was rearrested and wanted me to help her for free as she was out of money. Then she filed the complaint. I should have located her and sent an invoice. She had been on the run and ended up in Jail.”

Work Experience

Attorney
Coppola Law Firm
1999 - Present

Attorney
Mediation
1999 - Present

Partner
Coppola, Hockenberg, P.C.
1996 - Present

Elder Law Student Attorney
Drake Law School Clinic
1997 - 1998

Law Clerk
Coppola, Sandre & McConville, P.C.
1996 - 1999

View all work experience

Education

Drake University Law School
JD - Juris Doctor
1998

University of Iowa
BA - Bachelor of Arts
1996

Dowling Catholic High School
HS
1992

Legal Cases

ATV Negligence Accident
$1,500,000

Work Comp
$400,000

Work Compy
$150,000 and $185,000

View all legal cases

Associations

Polk County Iowa Family Law Mediation Panel
Mediator
2016 - Present

Iowa Collaborative Lawyers
Member
2016 - Present

Iowa State Bar Association
Member
1999 - Present

US Southerm District Federal Court Iowa
Member
1999 - Present

US Northern District Federal Court Iowa
Member
1999 - Present

Phi Delta Phi legal fraternity
Member
1999 - Present

Polk County Bar Aassociation
Member
1999 - Present

Iowa Criminal Law Attorney
Member
1999 - Present

Iowa Personal Injury Attorney
Memeber
1999 - Present

Iowa General Practice Trial Attorney
Member
1999 - Present

Iowa Social Security Attorney
Member
1999 - Present

Iowa Family Law Attorney
Member
1999 - Present

Iowa Volunteer Lawyer Project
Pro Bono Lawyer
1999 - Present

Iowa State Bar Association, Young Lawyers Division
Member
1999 - 2009

American Bar Association
Member
1999 - 2003

View all associations

Languages Spoken

English

Honors and Awards

Top 100 Trial Lawyers
National Trial Lawyers
2018

Distinguished
Martindale-Hubbell
2018

Top 100 Trial Lawyers
National Trial Lawyers
2017

Client Distinction Award
Martindale-Hubbell
2016

Top 100 Trial Lawyers
National Trial Lawyers
2016

Top 100 Trial Lawyers
National Trial Lawyers
2015

Top 100 Trial Lawyers
National Trial Lawyers
2014

AVVO Client Choice Award
AVVO
2013

AVVO Top Contributor
AVVO
2013

Top Lawyers In Iowa
The Legal Network
2013

Top 100 Trial Lawyers
National Trial Lawyers
2013

Client Distinction Award
Martindale-Hubbell
2010

Oustanding Wrestler Newcomer of the Year
Drake University
1993

Western Athletic Conference Student Athlete All-Academic
Drake University
1993

Who's Who
Who's Who
1992

State Champion Wrestler
Iowa State Wrestling Champion
1992

All Conference Academic
IHSAA
1992

View all awards

Publications

Iowa Court of Appeals
In Re Marriage of Vesey
2019

Iowa Court of Appeals
In Re Marriage of Witherly
2014

Iowa Court of Appeals
In Re Golly v. Salyers
2014

Iowa Court of Appeals
In Re Marriage of Hayes
2013

View all publications

Speaking Engagements

Iowa Court of Appeals
In Re a Marriage of Hayes
2012

Drake Law Seminars
Wills
1998

Drake Law School Clinic
Elder Law
1998

Drake Law Clinic
Trial Advocacy
1998

Drake Law
POA's and Advanced a Directives in Iowa
1998

View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (9)

Given (7)

Endorse Christopher

Evan Starcevic

Family Attorney | Sep 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Gary Kendell

Divorce and separation Attorney | Nov 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

James Sayre

General practice Attorney | Nov 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Christopher and I have known each other for a very long time, dating back before our legal career. Christopher has always been an extremely diligent and professional individual. I would highly recommend Christopher for any type of legal representation. James H. Sayre"

Joseph Coppola

Workers compensation Attorney | Oct 31
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Christopher Coppola is the ideal attorney who remains dedicated to helping his clients accomplish their goals and get their lives back on track."

Ryan Weese

General practice Attorney | Oct 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Coppola possesses trusted experience and knowledge of many aspects of civil litigation. He has earned a positive reputation in the community, and I would not hesitate to refer to him potential clients."

Kathleen Sandre

Family Attorney | Oct 12
Relationship: Worked for lawyer

"In my experience working with Chris, he is extremely motivated and committed to representing his clients zealously. As soon as he was retained on a matter, he made it a priority to address any urgent issues. In addition, he always kept in very close contact with his clients in order to keep them apprised of any new developments. He has also attained great success in many areas of the practice of law."

Harlan Hockenberg

General practice Attorney | Oct 09
Relationship: Co-worker

"I endorse this attorney, Chris Coppola, for his expertise and skills, solution oriented and hard worker. He is efficient and has knowledge in many areas of the law. He also places ethics and morals as a priority. Clients interests are always met."

Lawrence Scalise

Litigation Attorney | Oct 03
Relationship: Co-worker

"I endorse this lawyer. Chris is an excellent tgrial lawyer regarding personal injury, business litigation, divorce matters and all around confident, hard working always prepared attorney who protects his client's rights..I highly recommend him. Larry Scalise"

Kimberly Stamatelos

Family Attorney | Sep 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. I often serve as a mediator for Chris on his family law cases. He is a real problem solver, listening to his clients and advocating for them in a way that meets their needs and interests."

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