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Harley Christopher Erbe

Car accident Attorney at Des Moines, IA

4.9   21 reviews
  • Licensed for 24 years
    State IA
    Acquired 1999
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

About Harley

Learn Harley’s areas of practice.

5
Practice areas
  1. Car accident
    19%
    Your car transports you for all the activities of your daily life. When traveling on Iowa's roadways you don't expect to be in a car accident. But car accidents do occur, sometimes causing serious injuries or even death. Very serious injury car accidents are commonly caused by drunk driving or inattentive, reckless, or negligent drivers. Common types of injuries from a car accident include broken bones and ligament tears; neck, shoulder, back, and spinal injuries; and head injuries.

    23 years

  2. Construction and development
    19%
    There are two different types of defects in construction defect law: design defects and construction defects. A design defect is an inherent failure of the design of a structure. A construction defect is a failure to adhere to the approved design of the structure. The classification of the defect usually determines which party or parties are at fault for the defect.

    23 years

  3. Employment and labor
    19%
    Employment law governs the entire relationship between employer and employee. We have handled many employment law cases through trial and appeal in areas such as wage or overtime law, discrimination, employee drug or alcohol testing, wrongful termination, covenants not to compete, and the Family and Medical Leave Act. Employment law is a broad category that covers many different possible employment situations.

    23 years

  4. Insurance
    19%
    Insurance companies do not always come through in the tough times. An insurance coverage issue may arise because the insurance company doesn't believe that the claim is covered under the policy. Or the insurer may argue that not all of the "loss" is covered and wants to pay less than you think you're entitled to. When insurance companies fail to live up to the terms of their policies by delaying or denying payment of valid claims you have options.

    23 years

  5. Personal injury
    19%
    When an individual is injured or dies because of the negligence of another party, that party is liable for the damages caused to the individual and the individual's family. In these cases the medical expenses have a specific price tag. The physical, psychological, and emotional suffering of the family involved does not. We will work to bring justice to the party at fault, get fair and just compensation for the hardship of the victim(s), and provide what solace we can to the family of the victim.

    23 years

  6. Animal and dog bites
    5%

Harley Erbe is the founder of Erbe Law Firm, a small firm that provides personalized attention while delivering large firm results. Harley has stood side-by-side with our clients since 2005 and faced the largest law firms in Iowa and throughout the nation. We have routinely done so in our car accident, personal injury, insurance law, construction defect, and employment law cases.

It takes courage to stand before a jury and argue for a client. It also requires hard work and skill to prepare for and properly conduct a jury trial. Harley's membership in numerous trial lawyer organizations, including the Iowa Academy of Trial Lawyers, the American Board of Trial Advocates, and the Litigation Counsel of America, demonstrates his courage, work ethic, skill, and experience in presenting cases to juries.

We don't just dabble in any legal matters that come our way. Although we have expertise in other areas of law, we have focused our skill and learning on car accident, personal injury, employment law, construction defect, and insurance law cases. We chose to be specialists, not generalists, to ensure that we're ready for select types of cases when we're called to duty.

As you can see from our blog, we stay current on applicable court decisions from Iowa and throughout the nation. We do that to educate not only ourselves on the most current state of the law but also visitors to our site who may be seeking more specific information about a particular legal topic.

Photos and videos

Contact Harley

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Erbe Law Firm
2501 Grand Avenue
Des Moines, IA, 50312

Reviews

4.9 / 5.0
  21 customer reviews
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Posted by Jubal | October 12, 2022
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Professional, prompt, helpful.
I spoke with Mr. Erbe as part of a consultation, and he was friendly, professional, and easy to work with. He explained things in clear and understandable terms, and he showed me that my legal situation was a priority to him. If I need further legal counsel in any of his practice areas, he's going to be at the absolute top of my list.
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Posted by Jamie | February 7, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
So grateful for Erbe Lawfirm!
I was dealing with a difficult situation and urgently needed representation. I searched online and am SO thankful I found Harley. He immediately assessed my situation and put a plan in place. Not only is he extremely knowledgeable and efficient, he is genuinely interested in helping his clients. His communication throughout the entire process was top notch. Fees were reasonable and the outcome was exactly as I hoped. I can't truly thank him enough!!!
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Posted by Shannon | April 6, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Service
I consulted him about an unemployment benefits appeal. He was knowledgable about the situation and answered all my questions in a professional manner. He filed the appeal promptly and then represented me during the hearing. He continues to provide assistance and support as I go through the process again.
Posted by Hunter | April 6, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Unemployment benefits
He didn't do much because my employer backed out the day before. None the less right off the bat he was ready get the ball rolling. He was extremely professional and empathetic . I've already recommended him to some of my friends already.
Posted by Olivia | October 5, 2020
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
First Class!
Harley was very prompt and responsive from the moment I first contacted him. He took the time and was very through with learning about my situation. Gave me pro's and con's on various ways to address the case and was never pushy. I would have no hesitation to give him the highest recommendation to anyone that would need an attorney. Absolutely first class!
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Posted by Henry | May 28, 2020
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
good
he helped so much; I was very nervous for a potential legal problem. He told me I would be protected if something happened.
Posted by Jason | February 14, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Phenomenal Attorney!
Harley is a phenomenal attorney! I hired Harley to represent me in a case that took longer than we expected but he truly did a great job. He listens to your goals and helps develop a strategy that can work. He's an absolute top notch attorney at a very reasonable price. I've worked with a number of attorneys over the years and Harley's easily one of the best communicators that I've worked with. He gets back to you quickly and is extremely easy to get in contact with. One of the things that I appreciated the most was that he was honest and upfront with me the entire time. He went above and beyond my expectations especially for the amount of time he dedicated to our case.
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Response from Harley Erbe February 16, 2020
Thank you for this nice review Jason. I sure wish things had proceeded more quickly and generated a better result than they did, but circumstances conspired against us. That'll always disappoint me. But I appreciate and thank you for your patience and understanding as I was constantly delayed and impeded by events beyond my control. Please don't hesitate to reach out if there's ever anything else I can help you with.
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Posted by Marilyn | February 6, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
THE BEST
Harley recently closed out a defective construction law suite I brought against a non profit organization. A different attorney had been handling the case from 2015-2017. I took the law suite to Harley in 2017 after the case seemed to go nowhere. After being thrown into the middle of this case, Harley was able to decipher through it all. When I was ready to throw in the towel, Harley would encourage me to hang in there and to trust him, I wish i had taken his advise from the start. "I wasted a lot of time worrying." Harley was able to make a settlement in my favor and avoid trial. Harley was always looking out for my best interest and kept me informed on every aspect of the case at all times. He returned my calls and emails within minutes. By Harley being able to settle my case before trial, I received back a substantial amount of my retaining fee. He truly made you feel like you were part of his team. I consider Harley a friend and an all around good guy. Harley was truly a breath of fresh air and I would highly recommend him to anyone. Marilyn
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Response from Harley Erbe February 7, 2020
Thank you for the nice review Marilyn! I hope that everything goes smoothly with your home repairs. I'll be here if you ever need anything else.
Posted by TOM | February 1, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Insurance Suit
Harley agreed to represent my wife and I after we purchased an extended warranty on a used diesel pickup that later had a catastrophic $12K breakdown. Though the part that failed was not listed as an exclusion the warranty co. chose not to pay! Through several tries and help from attorney friends we finally came across the Erbe firm. From the initial consult I found Harley to be straight forward and honest and knew if we had a chance to recoup moneys we had found a great advocate! Harley was always punctual with communications, open and realistic during the negotiations and did what said he would. We ended up getting about 80% of our losses but were saved the expense and bother of a trial that would have cost us time and $$. I hope we never need his help again but if we do I would not hesitate to call the Erbe Law Firm!!!
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Response from Harley Erbe February 3, 2020
Thank you for your kind review Tom. I appreciate the opportunity to help with your situation. My door's always open if you or your family ever need help with anything else.
Posted by Grant | September 13, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Dedicated, Researched, and Seasoned
Dedicated, Researched, and Seasoned: While working with Harley at Erbe Law Firm throughout a motorcycle injury case, it was relieving to have a lawyer such as he. His attentiveness, dedication, and communication throughout the 2.8 year long case is unmatched. He was on the ball, researching between party communications, and reaching out regularly with the next steps or to touch base. The best qualities I would always go back to him for include, but aren't limited to, his prior experience in similar cases, his knowledge in case-law that may affect the case at hand, and his research in the jury statistics to make the right call on settling or pushing forth to more appropriate compensation. During the final weeks of the motorcycle injury case, he swiftly and accurately worked with all parties to bring it to a close as efficiently as possible. His firm's resources and experience were invaluable to the success of the case. 10/10 Recommended
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Response from Harley Erbe September 14, 2019
Thank you for the nice review Grant. You were an outstanding client and partner on the case. We were successful because of your willingness to work hard, provide detailed information to the defense lawyer, show up for every proceeding and deposition in the case, and never waver or give up. I remember when the insurer responded to our attempt to reach a fair settlement before we filed suit and it offered nothing because it said you were at fault for the crash. That claims adjuster sure turned out to be wrong!
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Posted by Carey Y. | April 17, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Very Knowledgable and Helpful
I am writing this review for Harley Erbe, Esq. because he provided exceptional legal counsel for me recently. I was denied unemployment and needed help with appealing my unemployment case. From the moment I contacted Mr. Erbe, he explained everything in a way I could understand. He is highly knowledgeable and thorough in every aspect of unemployment/labor law. He did not give me false hopes but was able to explain to me what exactly I needed to focus on in my case. Because of his demeanor and approach, I was able to focus on what what was necessary and leave out the rest. His guidance allowed me to feel much less anxious and more confident. I won my case because Mr. Erbe knew exactly how to help me, and I would highly recommend him for any individual needing legal assistance.
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Response from Harley Erbe April 18, 2019
Thank you for the kind review Carey. It was a team effort. The results could've been much different without your help in executing our plan to perfection.
Posted by Virginia | December 6, 2018
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Great advice
I didn’t actually get to have him represent me but he gave me advice I’ll never forget.
Posted by Deb | August 11, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
umemployment appeal
I hired Harley Erbe to help with my unemployment appeal. I was forced to unvoluntarily quit my job of 29 years. I had a dispute with my supervisor, then took some time off. When I returned I was called to a meeting and given the choice to resign, retire or get fired. They claimed I disrupted the work flow when I confronted my supervisor about a matter, although it lasted all of 15 seconds. They claimed I abandoned my job, even though I had filled out a vacation slip and contacted my supervisor about when I would return. I had been at this job for 29 years without any disiplinary write-ups or warnings about anything. I was upset and said I would retire as I didn't want a firing on my record. I filed for unemployment which they protested, had a phone review and was denied benefits. I decided to hire Mr. Erbe when I felt an appeal was justified. He was very helpful during the appeal with the judge. After the judge interviewed myself and my employer it was found in my favor and I am allowed to receive benefits. I am very thankful to Mr. Erbe for his excellent help. I would highly recommend Mr. Erbe.
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Posted by Steve | August 14, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Perfect!
Harley is everything you are looking for in an Attorney. Outstanding communication! Super quick to respond to the questions I had. Seemed to genuinely care about my situation. Very patient with me. I never once felt he was rushing me. Extremely thorough when reviewing the case documents. Very professional and aggressive! Outstanding results. I highly recommend Harley!
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Posted by Tom | June 14, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
perfect professional helpful successful
Mr. Erbe was very fast to respond to my first inquiry. once I hired him he helpful understanding and very knowledgeable. Always quick to reply to emails and phone calls. I would highly recommend him.
Posted by Carey | January 18, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent, professional and trustworthy
Harley Erbe has been our personal and business attorney for over 4 years. He is knowledgeable and articulate and always takes the time to explain, in detail, our options and potential outcomes. Harley is quick to return our phone calls and answer our emails. He is very professional and personable and is an excellent person to have on our side.
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Posted by Jeff | August 13, 2015
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Contractor Fraud
Mr. Erbe contacted me and informed me that he would assist in helping us resolve this issue. I had a meeting with the contractor today 8-13 and was informed the house will be finished at a agreed upon date in writing with a legal document. So if this does not work hopefully Mr. Erbe will help us move forward.
Posted by anonymous | August 5, 2015
Labor issue handled very well.
Great communication through the whole process. This was on a labor contract. Harley did a very good job of explaining our strengths and weaknesses. We were successful to the level of expectation given the situation. Next time lesson is to use someone like Harley for the whole process.
Posted by Joe | April 8, 2015
Harley Erbe is very personable and professional.
I had hired Mr. Erbe to take over in what was should have been typically pretty simple and routine over the phone unemployment hearing although the employer wasn't giving up and I was pushing back the more they were trying to push to win. After the employer kept trying to delay and reschedule the hearing Mr. Erbe stepped in and the employer found out at the last minute to Mr. Erbe's involvement in the case and was trying to get the hearing rescheduled once again so ultimately he could retain counsel as well because he was seeing how Mr. Erbe destroyed all of their credibility just cross examining their 1st of 2 witnesses. The employer actually stopped the hearing in the middle of it and stated that he would like to with drawl his appeal against me and you could hear the defeat in his voice and blow to his ego when he was stating that he wish to with drawl from the case. Mr. Erbe and I just looked at each other in disbelief and amazement after he stated his wishes. Before the hearing actually was allowed to conclude the judge just layed into the employer with all of the stupid acts that he pulled and stupid accomodations that were made for the employer he just gave up in less than an hour after dragging this case out for over 3 months once he learned of Mr. Erbe's involvement. Now I do have to hand it to Mr. Erbe for his hard work he was well prepared and that's what made it such a quick victory. The apposing party got scared and had to run once they seen him in action. I will have to say when your back is against legally Harley Erbe would be worth a call or an email just to see if he can help you or point you in the direction where you can get some good help.
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Posted by Garfield Michael | April 10, 2015
Review
Very effective and skilled attorney. Harley has represented me in two prior cases. Currently he is representing me in a personal injury case.
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 60 minutes
  • Contingency 33%-40%

Resume

AVVO RATING 9.1 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Attorney/Owner
  • Erbe Law Firm
  • 2005 - Present
  • Owner
  • Nelson, Erbe & Webster
  • 2002 - 2005
  • Associate
  • Walker Law Firm
  • 1999 - 2002

Education

  • Drake University Law School
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 1999
  • University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 1996

Legal Cases

  • Tope v. Greiner
  • $950,000 Trial Court Judgment
  • Ramos v. Wells Enterprises
  • Trial judgment for client.
  • Schram v. Bilgi
  • Trial judgment for client on all claims.
View all legal cases

Associations

  • Litigation Counsel Of America
  • Fellow
  • 2021 - Present
  • Iowa Academy of Trial Lawyers
  • Fellow
  • 2019 - Present
  • American Board of Trial Advocates
  • Member
  • 2018 - Present
  • Great Plains Super Lawyers
  • Member
  • 2017 - Present
  • American Academy Of Trial Attorneys
  • Member
  • 2015 - Present
  • The National Trial Lawyers
  • Member
  • 2013 - Present
  • Des Moines Business Exchange
  • Member
  • 2006 - Present
  • Iowa State Bar Association
  • Member
  • 1999 - Present
  • Iowa Association for Justice
  • Member
  • 1999 - Present
  • American Inns of Court
  • Member
  • 1999 - Present
  • Drake University Law Review
  • Member
  • 1997 - 1998
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Distinguished
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2020
  • Super Lawyer
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2020
  • Super Lawyer
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2019
  • Super Lawyer
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2018
  • Super Lawyer
  • Great Plains Super Lawyers
  • 2017
  • BV Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2015
  • Top 40 under 40
  • National Trial Lawyers Association
  • 2014
  • M. Gene Blackburn Award
  • Drake University Law School
  • 1999
  • Order Of The Coif
  • Drake University Law School
  • 1999
  • High Honors
  • Drake University Law School
  • 1999
  • CALI Excellence For The Future Award -- Products Liability
  • Drake University Law School
  • 1998
  • American Jurisprudence Award -- Torts
  • Drake University Law School
  • 1997
  • CALI Excellence For The Future Award -- Torts
  • Drake University Law School
  • 1997
View all awards

Speaking Engagements

  • Construction Defect Seminar
  • Construction Defect Law
  • 2012

Attorney endorsements

Received (5)
Given (0)
Endorse Harley
Car accident Attorney | May 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Personal injury Attorney | Jul 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Well respected in local community. Ethical and competent."
Car accident Attorney | May 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | Apr 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Top-notch attorney. Highly respected in the legal community."
Unknown Attorney | Mar 11
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Erbe provides accurate answers and is effective in his practice areas."
This attorney hasn't created any attorney endorsements recently on Avvo.