When you engage the services of The Law Office of Melvin O. Shaw, P.L.C., you're not just hiring an attorney; you're getting the help of a partner who will work tirelessly to find the best possible solutions for you. Attorney Shaw's commitment to your success is unwavering, and he'll go above and beyond to protect your peace of mind.
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Here to help you navigate your legal concerns with confidence.
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Family Estate Planning and Protection
Real Estate Transactions
Entrepreneurial and Business Ventures
Protecting Families, Guiding Businesses, Navigating Real Estate
Attorney Shaw delivers more than legal advice — he delivers peace of mind. Mel's deep knowledge of estate planning and probate equips you to make informed decisions, protect your legacy, and achieve your goals. But his counsel doesn’t stop there. From guiding businesses through formation, contracts, and succession to handling residential and commercial real estate transactions, Attorney Mel Shaw is your trusted ally at every step.
Based in Coralville, Attorney Mel Shaw proudly serves clients in Iowa City, North Liberty, and throughout Johnson, Linn, Washington, and Cedar Counties. Backed by a dedicated team, he provides comprehensive, results-driven legal services tailored to your unique needs. When you’re ready to protect what matters most, Attorney Mel Shaw is here to help.


Estate Planning, Business Law and Real Estate Attorney in Coralville, Iowa
Melvin O. Shaw
Attorney at LawAttorney Melvin O. Shaw has built a reputation across Iowa for delivering trusted, results-driven counsel. He provides practical legal solutions that help clients move forward with clarity and peace of mind.
Mel’s approach is simple: listen first, understand your goals, and create a strategy that protects what matters most — whether your family, your business, or your property investments.
Protect What Matters Most
You've worked hard to build the life you live. Safeguard your loved ones, your business, and your legacy with the help of Attorney Shaw's comprehensive and strategic legal services.
What Past Clients Are Saying
Melvin O. Shaw has earned the trust and respect of his clients through his unwavering commitment to their needs. Their testimonials are a testament to his dedication, expertise, and approachability.
We have used Mr Shaw for 2 different real estate transactions, and he has been great to work with on both. He also looked over my wife’s contract when she graduated and joined a practice. He has always kept us up to date on where we are at in the process, and is very helpful with telling us what we need to do. Would strongly recommend him.
If you’re looking for a young, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic attorney, Melvin Shaw is the perfect fit for you. He goes far beyond his job expectations to protect you. He is honest and fair. [...] He has a very nice, enjoyable personality and I would recommend his services to any individual who wants someone who will get the job done in a timely and efficient manner.
Melvin recently helped my husband and I with the sale of our home. He came highly recommended and was very quick to return my initial phone call. He did an excellent job of answering all of the questions we had. As first-time sellers, the timeline he provided helped us successfully navigate this process with ease.
Working with Melvin was a very low stress experience during very emotional times. He explain things well and walk me through the process of being the executor of my father's estate. He understood that I had a busy work schedule and communicated by email. I would certainly recommend him. I plan on having do an update on my will and related documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
A real estate attorney specializes in various aspects of property law, such as the purchase and sale of homes, property ownership, management, compliance, and resolving disputes. They are also responsible for ensuring that their clients' agreements accurately reflect their understanding of the transaction. They can also advocate for you during any disputes that arise during property transactions.
Whether you're undergoing a significant real estate transaction or dealing with a property dispute, it's in your best interest to partner with a local attorney. Their support can make all the difference.
Each state has its own estate laws, which can differ in tax implications, will and trust validity, and powers of attorney. You'll need to review and update your documents to comply with your new state's legal requirements. For instance, regulations on executors and witnesses may vary from state to state. No matter what, be sure to seek guidance from an estate planning attorney licensed in your new state to avoid any future complications.
Intestate is the legal term used to describe the situation when someone passes away without leaving a will. Their estate will have to pass through the probate process, which can be time-consuming and costly for surviving loved ones.
Iowa has its own set of intestate succession laws that determine who will inherit the assets, so it's important to navigate the process with an attorney who understands how the legalities apply to your specific situation and concerns.
Non-family members, such as stepchildren or long-time partners, usually do not receive a share of the estate unless there is a valid will. In the absence of any relatives, the entire estate usually goes to the state. It's important to note that intestacy laws for real estate may vary if you own property in a different state.