About
Scott Bandstra is a highly experienced attorney and the founder of Bandstra Law Firm in Des Moines, Iowa. For more than three decades, he has represented clients in criminal defense, personal injury, automobile accidents, and family law. He also serves as corporate counsel for local mental health organizations, advising on legal matters that impact their operations and care practices.
Scott earned his Juris Doctor from Drake University Law School in 1993 and has been a member of the Iowa Bar for over 27 years. His distinguished career is also marked by admissions to practice before the Supreme Court of Iowa, the U.S. District Courts for the Northern and Southern Districts of Iowa, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit, and the United States Supreme Court. These credentials reflect his ability to handle cases at both the state and federal levels.
Throughout his career, Scott has developed a reputation for skillful trial advocacy and a client-focused approach. He has successfully represented individuals facing serious criminal charges, families navigating divorce and custody disputes, and victims seeking compensation for injuries. His counsel to mental health groups further demonstrates his versatility and commitment to supporting organizations that serve vulnerable populations.
Scott Bandstra’s professional memberships include the Iowa Bar Association, the Polk County Bar Association, the American Inns of Court, the American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA), and the Iowa Association of Justice. These affiliations underscore his dedication to legal excellence and ongoing professional development.
With a strong commitment to advocacy, integrity, and practical solutions, Scott continues to provide trusted legal services across Iowa. His combination of trial experience, broad practice areas, and dedication to clients has established him as a respected attorney in the Des Moines legal community.
Law Office Affiliations
- Attorney, Bandstra Law Firm
- Member, Iowa State Bar Association
- Member, Polk County Bar Association
- Member, American Inns of Court
- Member, American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA)
- Member, The Iowa Association of Justice
Licensed State
- Iowa
Education
- Drake Law School
Juris Doctor (JD)
Awards & Badges


- Adoption
- Animal and dog bites
- Car accident
- Child abuse
- Child custody
- Child support
- Divorce and separation
- Drug Crime
- Juvenile law
- Motorcycle accident
- Nursing home abuse and neglect
- Sex crime
- Slip and fall accident
- Trucking accident
- Uncontested divorce
- White collar crime
- Workers compensation