Melvin O. Shaw

Melvin O. Shaw is a Coralville, Iowa, attorney and solo practitioner who advises individuals, families, property owners, farmers, lenders, and business clients on estate planning, probate administration, real estate, and business law. His work includes preparing wills, trusts, and powers of attorney; guiding estates through probate; handling property transactions; and helping businesses with formation, contracts, financing, purchases, and succession planning.

Shaw earned his J.D. from the University of Iowa College of Law in 2004. He also received a master’s degree in journalism from the University of Iowa and a B.S. in Political Science from the University of Missouri-Columbia. His legal and communications training supports a practical approach to analyzing complex issues, clearly explaining options, drafting effective documents, and helping clients make informed decisions. He has practiced independently since opening his law firm in 2006.

His experience covers residential and commercial real estate contracts, title matters, closings, leases, easements, rezoning, subdivisions, and property disputes. Shaw also represents businesses with entity formation, asset purchase agreements, buy-sell agreements, commercial contracts, lender transactions, and succession concerns. In probate matters, he advises executors and heirs on property transfers, creditor claims, taxes, real estate sales, intestate succession, conflict resolution, and court proceedings, and helps estates comply with Iowa law.

Melvin O. Shaw has held significant leadership roles in the legal profession, including service as the 138th President of the Iowa State Bar Association and as chair of the American Bar Association’s General Practice, Solo and Small Firm Division. He is also the author of the Iowa Business Law Manual and has presented on probate, business law, and real estate topics. His leadership, writing, and client-centered approach reflect a commitment to practical legal guidance and public service.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney, The Law Office of Melvin O. Shaw, P.L.C.
• President, Iowa State Bar Association, 2024-2025
• Fellow, American Bar Foundation, 2024
• Member, Iowa Legal Aid
• Chair, American Bar Association, Solo, Small Firm, and General Practice Division
• Member, National Conference of Bar Presidents, Executive Council
• President, Vice-President and Secretary, Housing Fellowship Board of Trustees, 2012-2019
• Fellow, Iowa State Bar Foundation, 2022
• Member, Lawyers Trust Account Commission

Licensed State

• Iowa

Education

• University of Iowa College of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Iowa
  Master of Arts (MA)
• University of Missouri-Columbia
  Bachelor of Science (BS)

Awards & Badges