Dean Fankhauser

Dean Fankhauser is a partner at Tigges, Bottaro & Lessmann, LLP Law Firm, who serves clients in business law, real estate, estate planning, probate, and guardianship matters. He helps people make sound legal decisions, protect assets, and plan for the future. His practice covers contracts, business formation, sales, mergers, title work, leases, wills, trusts, and tax-related issues. Dean is known for giving clear advice and building practical solutions that fit each client’s goals. He also assists clients with court filings, negotiations, and long-term planning with confidence.

Dean earned his undergraduate degree from Chadron State College before attending the University of South Dakota School of Law. He received his J.D. in 2014 and built a strong foundation in legal writing, advocacy, and client service during law school. His academic training prepared him to handle complex legal matters with care and precision. By combining formal education with hands-on legal experience, he offers clients thoughtful counsel grounded in both legal knowledge and real-world business and property concerns.

Dean, after law school, began practicing in the Siouxland area and later worked as an associate attorney. He then opened his own practice, Fankhauser, Farrens & Rachel, PLC, before joining the merged firm in 2021. He is admitted in Iowa, Nebraska, and the United States District Court for the Northern District of Iowa. His work includes helping business owners structure companies, guiding buyers and sellers through property matters, and preparing estate plans that protect families, property, and financial interests over time.

Dean Fankhauser helps clients solve legal issues before they become larger problems. He supports businesses with contracts, financing, succession plans, and licensing matters. He assists property owners with deeds, easements, foreclosures, zoning, and landlord-tenant concerns. He also helps families prepare wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and probate plans with clarity and care. Through each matter, Dean focuses on practical results, careful planning, and dependable service, helping clients move forward with better protection, stronger legal footing, and greater peace of mind.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Tigges, Bottaro & Lessmann, LLP
• Member, Iowa State Bar Association
• Member, Nebraska State Bar Association
• Member, Woodbury County Bar Association
• Member, Iowa Lawyer Trust Association

Licensed State

• Iowa
• Nebraska

Education

• University of South Dakota of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Chadron State College
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges